The FBI has slammed a suspect in the death of Capitol police officer Brian Sicknick, according to several media reports.
CBS News has made the identity of the man who allegedly used bear spray against several people during the January 6 raid on the U.S. Capitol a priority for the agency, CBS News reports, citing unknown sources.
It is not clear how the New Jersey-born Sicknick, 42, died. The day after the attack, police in the Capitol said Sicknick was injured “while physically speaking to protesters.” Several reports said he was hit with a fire extinguisher. But it now appears that his death could have been caused by a reaction to the bear spray, a chemical that irritates the eyes, nose and lungs and can cause swelling.
The New York Times first reported that a suspect had been identified in the case.
However, Capitol police issued a statement Friday night in response to reports that the medical examiner’s report was not yet complete.
“We are awaiting toxicological results and continue to work with other government agencies on the inquest,” the statement said.
The FBI did not immediately respond to a request for clarification.
Sicknick was laid in honor of the American Capitol and buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
More than 300 people who took part in the Capitol riot have been charged with various crimes.