The world watched in disbelief as supporters of United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday stormed the Capitol building in a bid to overturn the results of last year's election which was swept by Democrat Joe Biden.

As the violent mob encroached the building, the nation's elected representatives crouched under desks and donned gas masks, while police futilely tried to barricade the building, one of the most jarring scenes ever to unfold in a seat of American political power.

One woman died inside the building after being shot while three more died from medical emergencies, police said.

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Header image: A protester is seen hanging from the balcony in the Senate Chamber on January 06, 2021 in Washington, DC. — AFP