The FBI’s claim that corrupted phone data hindered its investigation into the 2021 pipe bomb case is now being disputed by major mobile carriers. The bombs, discovered near the RNC and DNC headquarters on Jan. 5, 2021, have remained a troubling unsolved mystery for nearly four years.
Former FBI Assistant Director Steve D’Antuono testified in 2023 that corrupted data from a phone provider complicated efforts to identify the suspect. However, Rep. Barry Loudermilk of Georgia, chair of the House Administration Oversight Subcommittee, says carriers have denied this assertion. “Every major cell carrier responded and confirmed that they did not provide the FBI corrupted data,” Loudermilk told Just the News.
Surveillance footage from the night of Jan. 5 shows a suspect calmly placing an explosive device near the DNC headquarters before walking away. Despite clear video evidence and the FBI’s use of advanced geofencing technology, the individual has not been identified. This has drawn criticism from lawmakers and public observers alike.
Loudermilk has sent a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray asking for clarification on the claims made by D’Antuono. He also requested details on whether the bureau informed carriers about any issues with the data or sought to obtain uncorrupted records. The lack of resolution has raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the investigation.
The case has drawn renewed attention due to the FBI’s success in prosecuting others linked to Jan. 6. Critics argue that individuals with less evidence against them have been swiftly identified, while the pipe bomb suspect remains at large. The disparity has fueled skepticism about the agency’s priorities and effectiveness.
As lawmakers press for answers, the pipe bomb case continues to highlight unresolved questions surrounding Jan. 6. Many argue that solving the case is critical to restoring trust in federal law enforcement.
