Alleged Jan. 6 Capitol attacker identified through facial recognition and scar above eye
The FBI has identified and arrested Joshua Lee Atwood, also known as “LeadPipeGuy,” for his alleged involvement in the assault on law enforcement officers during the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Atwood was recognized by online “sedition hunters” who provided information to the bureau, leading to his arrest in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania.
The FBI was able to confirm Atwood’s identity through a scar above his left eye, which matched a scar seen in a 10-year-old mug shot. Videos compiled by open-source investigators show Atwood attacking law enforcement officers defending the Tunnel during the Capitol attack, using various objects and weapons to assault them.
Atwood has a history of criminal behavior, including an arrest in Pennsylvania for an alleged armed robbery and assault at a restaurant. He is currently facing charges for assaulting law enforcement officers on Jan. 6, with his bond set at $100,000 in the previous case.
More than 1,387 people have been charged in connection with the Capitol attack, with over 984 defendants convicted. Atwood is just one of many defendants facing additional charges for criminal behavior after participating in the Jan. 6 attack.
The FBI continues to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in the Capitol attack, with Atwood’s case highlighting the ongoing efforts to hold accountable those responsible for the violence on that day.
