Andrew Kyle Grigsby, a 29-year-old man from Kentucky, has been arrested for allegedly deploying bear spray at Capitol police officers during the January 6, 2021, riot. Grigsby is facing multiple serious charges, including civil disorder, assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers with a dangerous weapon, and engaging in violent conduct at a restricted building or grounds. Surveillance footage shows Grigsby among the first rioters to engage with law enforcement on the northwest stairwell of the Capitol at approximately 1:54 p.m. As the rioters attempted to break through a police line, Grigsby was seen holding a black canister, later identified as bear spray, which he raised and used to spray the officers. The bear spray caused the officers to temporarily retreat.
One of the officers affected by the bear spray described experiencing severe pain, unable to breathe or see, enduring what was described as “unbearable, torturous pain.” After deploying the bear spray, Grigsby moved down the stairs and allegedly took a police riot shield. Witnesses later identified him from photos taken during the riot, and the FBI’s investigation included an interview attempt with Grigsby at his home. Although he was not present when agents arrived, a family member confirmed his participation in the riot and noted that Grigsby had deleted photos from their phone showing him at the Capitol.
Grigsby initially denied using the bear spray against officers, claiming he had only sprayed it at other rioters who were clashing with law enforcement. However, surveillance footage contradicted his statement, showing him spraying the bear spray directly at the officers. Grigsby was indicted in late 2023, and the charges were made public after his arrest in January 2025.
Grigsby’s case is one of many stemming from the January 6 events, where numerous individuals have been charged for their roles in the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The use of bear spray, along with other weapons and violent tactics, has led to serious legal consequences for those involved. Grigsby remains in custody as his legal proceedings continue.
