United States Capitol Police, U.S. Government
End of Watch Friday, July 24, 1998
Add to My HeroesJacob Joseph Chestnut
Officer Jacob Chestnut was shot and killed when a suspect entered a main entrance to the United States Capitol and opened fire after walking through a metal detector.
Officer Chestnut was stationed at the entrance of the building and was in the process of writing directions for two tourists when he was shot in the back of the head at point-blank range. The suspect then entered the office of Congressman Tom DeLay.
Detective John Gibson, who was assigned to protect Congressman DeLay, was immediately engaged in a gunfight with the suspect, at which point he was shot. Despite being mortally wounded, Detective Gibson was able to return fire and wounded the suspect.
The suspect was known to the United States Secret Service prior to the incident as a person who had threatened the President of the United States. The suspect was found mentally unfit to stand trial. He remains in the psychiatric center of the Butner Federal Correctional Complex in Butner, North Carolina.
Officer Chestnut served two tours of duty as a Military Policeman in the Vietnam War. He is survived by his wife and five children.
He is buried in section 4, lot 2764-A of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.
Bio
- Age 58
- Tour 18 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Location District of Columbia
- Weapon Handgun; .38 caliber
- Offender Found incompetent
Most Recent Reflection
View all 38 ReflectionsJacob and i were room mates at Hanscom Field in 1961-62 before he went to Japan. We were again at Hanscom Field in the late 60’s. A great NCO and the world is a sadder place without him. RIP my friend
CMSgt Don Andrews
3246 ABG, Hanscom Field , Mass
March 30, 2025
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