Michael Byrd

Michael Byrd is a Capitol Police officer who became widely known for his involvement in the shooting of Ashli Babbitt during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. As Babbitt attempted to breach a barricaded entrance to the House chamber, Byrd fired his weapon, resulting in her death. Following the incident, Byrd was cleared of any wrongdoing by both a Capitol Police review and a Justice Department investigation, which concluded that his actions were in line with police training and procedures. The shooting sparked considerable debate regarding law enforcement's response during the riot, and Byrd has since expressed that his decision to use deadly force was necessary to protect lawmakers and staff who were in danger.