Breaking: Suspect Detained After Hammer Attack on VP Vance’s Cincinnati Home, Windows Smashed
Secret Service agents apprehend man who broke multiple windows with hammer at Vice President’s Ohio residence; Vance family was not home during midnight incident, motive under investigation
Cincinnati, January 5, 2026 – A man was detained by US Secret Service agents early Monday morning after allegedly attacking Vice President JD Vance’s Cincinnati home with a hammer, breaking windows and attempting to gain entry to the residence. The incident has raised fresh concerns about security threats against senior government officials.
The Attack Unfolds
The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Monday when Secret Service agents spotted someone running near the East Walnut Hills residence. The suspect was quickly apprehended after breaking several windows on the property’s exterior.
Secret Service personnel physically detained the adult male suspect at the scene before Cincinnati Police took him into custody for property damage. Officers and federal agents remained on the scene for several hours, conducting a thorough investigation of the historic property.
Vance Family Safe, Not at Home
Crucially, Vice President Vance and his family were not in Ohio at the time of the incident. Taylor Van Kirk, Vance’s press secretary, confirmed the family was in Washington, DC during the attack. Vance had left Cincinnati on Sunday afternoon, just hours before the incident occurred.
Investigation Ongoing, Motive Unclear
The suspect’s identity has not been released, and authorities remain tight-lipped about potential charges and motivation. The Secret Service has not released additional information about the suspect or a motive.
“The US Secret Service is coordinating with the Cincinnati Police Department and the US Attorney’s Office as charging decisions are reviewed,” said Anthony Guglielmi, Secret Service spokesperson, in a statement.
Law enforcement officials are currently examining whether this was a politically motivated attack targeting the Vice President, a random act of vandalism, or something else entirely. Given the federal jurisdiction implications of an incident involving a Vice President’s residence, the involvement of the US Attorney’s Office signals that federal charges may be forthcoming.
Security Context and Timing
The timing of the attack is particularly noteworthy. The incident occurred shortly after enhanced security restrictions around the Cincinnati home were lifted, with roads in the surrounding neighborhood closed between December 29 and January 4.
Just days before the attack, Vance had been in Florida meeting with President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, where they discussed ongoing foreign policy matters including the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
The Property
Vance owns the Ohio property, which overlooks the Ohio River and sits on nearly 2.3 acres of land, purchased for just under $1.4 million. The home, located in the historic Walnut Hills neighborhood on William Howard Taft Drive, has been described as a rustic example of mid-century Gothic Revival architecture.
The neighborhood is one of Cincinnati’s oldest and is home to historic sites including the Harriet Beecher Stowe House. Following the incident, heavy law enforcement presence remained in the area, with residents advised to expect security checkpoints.
Growing Concerns About Political Violence
The incident comes amid heightened concerns over political violence after multiple high-profile killings last year, and President Trump faced two assassination attempts during the 2024 election campaign.
The attack on Vance’s home underscores the persistent security challenges facing America’s top political leaders, even when they are away from their residences. Secret Service agents maintained their protective detail at the property, which proved crucial in the rapid apprehension of the suspect.
What Happens Next
Prosecutors are currently reviewing potential charges, which could range from property damage and attempted burglary to more serious federal offenses depending on the suspect’s intent and any evidence gathered during the investigation.
The Secret Service continues to work with local and federal law enforcement to determine the full scope of the incident. Additional security measures around the property are expected to remain in place as the investigation continues.
Vance’s office has directed all inquiries to the Secret Service and confirmed the family has returned to Washington. No statement from the Vice President himself has been released at this time.
Key Facts:
- When: Shortly after midnight, Monday, January 5, 2026
- Where: Vice President Vance’s East Walnut Hills residence, Cincinnati, Ohio
- What: Multiple windows broken with hammer, attempted entry
- Suspect: Adult male, identity not released, in custody
- Status: Vance family safe in Washington, DC; investigation ongoing
- Charges: Pending review by US Attorney’s Office
