A Maryland man is facing attempted murder charges after authorities say he targeted the Northern Virginia home of Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
According to CBS News, Arlington County Police arrested 26-year-old Colin Demarco on Jan. 22 following an investigation led by the U.S. Marshals Service. Court records allege Demarco traveled from his home in Rockville, Maryland, to Vought’s Arlington residence last August and was captured on a Ring doorbell camera outside the home.
Download the SAN app today to stay up-to-date with Unbiased. Straight Facts™.
Point phone camera here
Authorities say Demarco is accused of plotting to kill a person identified in charging documents as “R.V.,” described as a presidential appointee. Sources familiar with the case confirmed to CBS News that the alleged target was Vought.
Surveillance video places suspect at official’s home
Court filings say the Ring video shows Demarco wearing gloves, a surgical mask, sunglasses, and a backpack while standing at the front door. Investigators say he looked through the mailbox and asked a neighbor whether anyone was home. The neighbor told police Demarco appeared to have a gun tucked under his shirt.
According to the complaint, Demarco later admitted traveling to Arlington but denied intending to harm anyone. He told investigators he went to the home to confront Vought over Project 2025, a conservative policy agenda developed ahead of the 2024 election.
Unbiased. Straight Facts.TM
Russel Vought served as the acting and then confirmed Director of the OMB during the first Trump administration from 2019 to 2021.
Investigators cite notes and online messages
According to CBS News, a search warrant for Demarco’s iCloud account uncovered a series of notes referencing a weapons stash, a draft manifesto, and a document titled “Body Disposal Guide.” One note listed firearms under the heading “Dad’s Gun Stash,” including a loaded .357 Magnum revolver.
Authorities also cite messages Demarco allegedly posted on Discord in which he discussed killing President Donald Trump and referenced locating Vought’s home address. One message, quoted in the complaint, described a desire to travel to Washington and kill the president.
Demarco also expressed admiration for Luigi Mangione, who is charged in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in 2024.
This story is featured in today’s Unbiased Updates. Watch the full episode here.
Ongoing threats prompt federal protection
Vought has faced repeated threats tied to his role in reshaping the federal workforce during Trump’s second administration and is now protected by the U.S. Marshals Service. An OMB spokesperson said the agency is grateful to law enforcement for keeping Vought and his family safe.
Demarco is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 23.
