Biden’s election victory certified after chaos at US Capitol leaves four people dead
- After a stand-off between protesters and police, Trump supporters breached the Capitol, smashing windows and occupying areas normally off-limits to the public
- Shots fired inside Capitol building with one woman fatally injured and three other dying from medical emergencies
The US Congress, having defeated Republican efforts to derail Democrat Joe Biden’s victory over President Donald Trump, on Thursday approved states’ Electoral College results certifying the next occupant of the White House.
A marathon sitting was required after the proceedings turned chaotic and deadly on Wednesday, when supporters of Trump stormed the Capitol building, forcing the evacuation of Vice-President Mike Pence and lawmakers.
After an outdoor stand-off with Capitol Police, Trump supporters brandishing US and Confederate flags breached the Capitol, smashing windows, setting off fire extinguishers and occupying areas of the building normally off-limits to the public.
Speaking on Fox News, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy said he had heard on Capitol Police radio that there were “shots fired” in the building.
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Trump supporters storm US Capitol, interrupting Congress’ certification of Biden’s victory
Washington police confirmed late on Wednesday that a woman had died of a gunshot wound, after she was shot inside the Capitol. She was later identified as Ashli Babbitt, an Air Force veteran from California. Three other people died due to medical emergencies.
Hours into the siege, White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said Trump had ordered the deployment of the National Guard to quell the violence and called on agitators to “remain peaceful”.