FBI searches New Jersey for man charged in Capitol Riot

A manhunt was underway Wednesday as the FBI and several local police departments scoured central New Jersey for a man wanted in connection with the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

The FBI released a photo showing the man, Gregory Yetman, taking part in the attack two years ago.

Armed law enforcement officers They were seen searching the backyard of a house and a shed in Helmetta, NJ, a small suburban community in Middlesex County, in video captured by NBC News.

As authorities, including a SWAT team, searched in and around the city, schools in nearby communities ordered staff and students to shelter in place, Helmetta Mayor Christopher Slavicek said.

The manhunt began around 8 a.m. Wednesday, Mr. Slavicek said, when law enforcement officers attempted to arrest Mr. Yetman at his home, and he “fled and went into the woods.”

The FBI and local authorities declined to provide information about Mr. Yetman or the charges against him.

But USA Today reported earlier this year that Mr. Yetman, who was identified as a former military police sergeant in the New Jersey National Guard, had been interviewed by the FBI about his participation in the riotand that he allegedly fired a large canister of pepper spray at protesters and police officers.

An Army spokeswoman confirmed that Mr. Yetman served in the New Jersey National Guard for 12 years before leaving in March 2022.

In an interview with USA Today, he admitted he was at the Capitol on Jan. 6 but denied any wrongdoing.

As the search for Mr Yetman continued, Mr Slavincek said there was “certainly a sense of heightened fear” in and around Helmetta.

“Search helicopters were flying at tree height and several law enforcement agencies were going up and down the roads,” Mr. Slavincek said, adding that the FBI had set up a command center at the local community center.