A Venezuelan migrant was arrested near the White House on Thursday after authorities allegedly found him in a stolen vehicle containing three firearms and ammunition. Officials said the man made statements about killing President Donald Trump after officers approached him in Washington, D.C. The investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations have not been resolved in court.
The suspect, Ronny Yordrix Guanipa Chrinos, entered the United States through Texas in March 2024, according to officials. He was later released into the country and is now in federal custody following the arrest.
| 1) | Arrest follows suspicious activity near the White House |
|---|---|
| 2) | Weapons and stolen vehicle discovered during investigation |
| 3) | Suspect’s immigration and custody history |
| 4) | Officials describe an imminent security concern |
| 5) | Investigation and federal detention continue |
Arrest follows suspicious activity near the White House
U.S. Secret Service officers approached Ronny Yordrix Guanipa Chrinos on Thursday evening after observing what officials described as suspicious behavior. The encounter occurred while he was sitting in a vehicle parked on Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C., near the White House complex.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, the suspect told officers that he heard voices in his head directing him to travel to the capital and kill President Donald Trump. Those statements formed part of the initial investigation, although authorities have not announced a final determination about his intentions or mental state.
Weapons and stolen vehicle discovered during investigation
The investigation expanded after officers determined that the vehicle had been reported stolen. Officials said the suspect acknowledged that weapons were inside the vehicle, prompting a search during the encounter.
Authorities reported recovering three firearms, including an AR-15-style rifle and two handguns, along with dozens of rounds of ammunition. The discovery of multiple weapons near a protected government complex contributed to the security response and the suspect’s arrest.
Suspect’s immigration and custody history
Officials identified the suspect as Ronny Yordrix Guanipa Chrinos, a Venezuelan national who allegedly entered the United States illegally through Texas in March 2024. U.S. Border Patrol arrested him after that entry, according to the information released by officials.
He was subsequently released into the country under the Biden administration. After the Washington arrest, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement lodged a detainer with the U.S. Marshals Service. The suspect is currently being held in federal custody while the case develops.
Officials describe an imminent security concern
The Secret Service said the incident illustrates the risks posed by armed people who are drawn to the White House complex. Officers were required to assess the behavior, investigate the vehicle, secure the weapons and manage the alleged threat without allowing the situation to escalate.
This is the latest example of Secret Service personnel relying on extensive training and experience to deescalate a volatile situation that posed an imminent threat to our protectees and other Americans.
Secret Service Director Sean Curran said personnel are trained for such incidents but expressed concern about what he described as an increase in threat cases. He said the agency intends to expand proactive efforts to identify people who threaten protected officials before they reach Washington.
Investigation and federal detention continue
The case remains under investigation, and officials have not provided a complete list of potential charges or a court schedule. The stolen vehicle, firearms, ammunition and reported statements are expected to remain central to the inquiry.
The suspect’s continued custody will allow federal authorities to coordinate the criminal investigation with immigration enforcement. Further details may emerge as investigators review evidence and prosecutors determine how to proceed.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | A Venezuelan migrant was arrested near the White House on Thursday. |
| 2 | Authorities said the vehicle was stolen and contained three firearms and ammunition. |
| 3 | Officials reported alleged statements about killing President Donald Trump. |
| 4 | Immigration authorities lodged a detainer after the arrest. |
| 5 | The investigation and decisions on charges are still pending. |
Summary
Authorities arrested Ronny Yordrix Guanipa Chrinos after a Secret Service encounter near the White House led to the discovery of a stolen vehicle, three firearms and ammunition. Officials also reported that he made an alleged threat against President Donald Trump. He remains in federal custody while criminal and immigration authorities continue investigating the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the arrest occur?
The arrest occurred on Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C., near the White House complex.
What did authorities find?
Authorities said they found a stolen vehicle containing an AR-15-style rifle, two handguns and dozens of rounds of ammunition.
What is the suspect’s current status?
The suspect is in federal custody after immigration authorities lodged a detainer with the U.S. Marshals Service.
Has the case been resolved?
No. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not announced a complete list of charges or a final court outcome.
