Arlington, Virginia—A 26-year-old man from Rockville, Maryland, has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly targeting the home of Russell Vought, the former director of the Office of Management and Budget. Authorities arrested Colin Demarco on January 22 following an investigation headed by the U.S. Marshals Service.
Investigators say Demarco visited Vought’s Arlington residence last August, where he was recorded on a Ring doorbell camera. The footage reportedly shows Demarco wearing gloves, sunglasses, and a surgical mask while standing at the front door. During his presence, he is said to have examined the mailbox and questioned a neighbor about Vought’s whereabouts. The neighbor informed police that Demarco appeared to be concealing a firearm beneath his shirt.
Demarco is alleged to have expressed intentions to confront Vought regarding Project 2025, a conservative policy initiative linked to the upcoming 2024 presidential election. However, when questioned, he claimed he had no intent to harm anyone.
Further probing into Demarco’s activities revealed notes and online messages that raised alarms among investigators. A search of his iCloud account unveiled references to a “weapons stash,” along with a draft of a manifesto and a document ominously titled “Body Disposal Guide.” One of the notes reportedly mentioned a loaded .357 Magnum revolver, categorized under “Dad’s Gun Stash.”
Additionally, messages shared on the platform Discord included discussions about killing former President Donald Trump and included information connecting Demarco to Vought’s home address. In one concerning post, he expressed a desire to travel to Washington for violent actions against the president. He has also expressed admiration for other individuals implicated in violent acts.
Due to the persistent threats against him, Vought has been granted federal protection. The U.S. Marshals Service has taken steps to ensure the safety of Vought and his family, who have faced numerous threats following Vought’s role in altering the federal workforce during the Trump administration.
Demarco is expected to appear in court on February 23 as the legal proceedings against him continue. Authorities remain vigilant, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations and the broader context of targeted threats against public figures.