The purpose of this post is to provide a clear and factual account of the circumstances leading to the death of Ashli Babbitt during the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, for those seeking to understand this tragic event. There are many opinions, but, there are indeed FACTS.
Background on Ashli Babbitt
Ashli Babbitt, a 35-year-old Air Force veteran from California, served 12 years in the military, including deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, before transitioning to the Air National Guard. After her service, she co-owned a pool supply business and became an active supporter of then-President Donald Trump, aligning with the “Stop the Steal” movement and QAnon conspiracy theories. On January 5, 2021, she expressed her intent to join protests in Washington, D.C., against the certification of the 2020 presidential election results.
The Capitol Attack
On January 6, 2021, Congress convened to certify the Electoral College results, confirming Joe Biden’s election victory. Following a rally where then-President Trump urged supporters to march to the Capitol, a mob breached the building, aiming to disrupt the certification. The attack resulted in significant violence, with 140 police officers injured and five deaths linked to the event.
The Incident
Babbitt was among those who entered the Capitol. Video evidence and reports indicate she was part of a group attempting to breach the Speaker’s Lobby, adjacent to the House chamber where members of Congress were being evacuated. As the mob smashed glass panels in barricaded doors, Babbitt attempted to climb through a broken window. Lt. Michael Byrd, a Capitol Police officer stationed inside, fired a single shot, striking her in the shoulder. Despite immediate medical efforts, Babbitt was pronounced dead at Washington Hospital Center.
Investigations and Aftermath
The U.S. Capitol Police and Department of Justice investigated the shooting, concluding it was lawful and within policy, citing the imminent threat to members of Congress and staff. No charges were filed against Lt. Byrd. Babbitt’s family filed a $30 million wrongful death lawsuit, which was settled with the U.S. government in May 2025, with terms still pending finalization. Public reactions remain divided, with some viewing Babbitt as a patriot and others as a participant in a violent riot.
Summary
Ashli Babbitt’s death is a tragic and complex moment in the January 6 Capitol attack. This account draws from official reports, video footage, and investigations to provide clarity.
John Rourke’s take on the death of Ashli Babbit:
An unarmed woman was killed on January 6th, 2021. Regardless of potential charges of trespassing, unlawful disorderly conduct, or whatever, she failed to conduct herself in any manner that deserved death. The officer who pulled the trigger was guilty, at an absolute minimum, of negligent homicide. This is another example of the government failing the citizens whom they are supposed to represent.
My 2 cents.
Rourke
