Maryland Man Charged with Attempted Murder in Alleged Plot Against OMB Director

An individual from Maryland is facing charges of attempted murder after allegedly arriving at the residence of Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, situated in northern Virginia. Colin Demarco, aged 26, was apprehended by Arlington County police on January 22, charged not only with attempted murder but also with carrying a firearm without a permit and illegally wearing a mask. According to a source speaking to NBC News, Demarco is accused of conspiring to kill Vought, with evidence suggesting he was crafting a manifesto and had notes concerning weapons and a guide for disposing of bodies, as revealed by deputies from the U.S. Marshals Service. The complaint alleges that Demarco informed agents that the election of November 2024 marked the lowest point in his life.

A spokesperson for the Office of Management and Budget confirmed their awareness of the incident, expressing gratitude for law enforcement’s efforts to ensure Vought and his family’s safety. A still image captured on a Ring doorbell camera was instrumental in identifying Demarco, who appeared at the doorstep of Vought’s Arlington residence on August 10. Arlington County police received a report of a suspicious individual at approximately 3:15 p.m.

Witnesses reported seeing a man on Vought’s porch, wearing a surgical mask and rubber gloves, carrying a backpack, and appearing to hide a weapon under his shirt. This man allegedly inquired about Vought before departing, prompting the witness to contact the police. Digital evidence gathered by the authorities showed that Demarco obtained directions to Vought’s home, possessed information about guns located with a relative, and had a guide related to avoiding detection when committing crimes.

Further investigation revealed that Demarco had posted online about Vought and engaged in discussions seemingly urging others to murder him. He reportedly appeared at Vought’s residence a few days after these online interactions. Demarco remains in custody at the Arlington County Detention Facility without the possibility of bail, and his preliminary court hearing is set for February 23.

Commenting on the alarming incident, Representative Brendan Boyle from Pennsylvania expressed his concern over the alleged plan to murder the OMB director, expressing relief that the suspect was apprehended before any violence occurred. Boyle stated, “Political violence is unacceptable and represents an attack not only on an individual but on our democracy itself. There is no place for political violence in the United States of America.”

This alleged threat to Vought arises amidst rising concerns about political violence in the country. Previous incidents include the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah and the fatal shooting of Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman. Additionally, the number of threats against Congress has been increasing, with a recent report from the U.S. Capitol Police indicating a third consecutive yearly rise to unprecedented levels.