Police in Oregon and Washington are on high alert after a series of ballot box bombings, warning that the suspect may attempt more attacks. Portland Police spokesperson Mike Benner told reporters that “investigators believe it is very possible the suspect intends to continue these targeted attacks across the area.”
The suspect is described as a white male, aged 30-40, with balding or very short hair, a thin face, and a medium build, often wearing dark clothing. Detectives believe he has skills in metal fabrication and welding, possibly aiding in the construction of incendiary devices used in the recent attacks on ballot boxes.
🚨🇺🇸#BREAKING | UPDATE
WASHINGTON POLICE RELEASED 2 PICTURES OF
A CAR THAT MIGHT BE INVOLVED WITH THE 3 BALLOT BOXS FIRES.WPD Say that the ballot box fire suppression system worked and only a dozen ballots were destroyed. They believe all three boxes were destroyed by one… pic.twitter.com/QSHrQMSCyd
— Todd Paron🇺🇸🇬🇷🎧👽 (@tparon) October 29, 2024
These bombings, occurring in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, targeted drop boxes and resulted in significant damage. While Oregon’s fire suppression system in ballot boxes contained the flames, Vancouver saw nearly 500 ballots destroyed due to a failed suppression system. Oregon Elections Director Tim Scott explained that the system “worked exactly as it was supposed to” in Portland, minimizing damage.
A vehicle linked to the attacks was captured on surveillance video near the Portland bombing site. Described as an early 2000s Volvo S60 with dark wheels, a matte finish, a missing emblem on the aftermarket grille, and no front license plate, police believe the car may help lead them to the suspect.
"The flames you're seeing aren't just fire – they're the burning voices of hundreds of American citizens, their votes going up in smoke.
Someone set fire to a ballot drop box.
This is the same America that claims to be the global guardian of democracy, yet in its own elections,… pic.twitter.com/jkNccYqT1R
— Varun Rana (@varunrana86) October 29, 2024
So they're not even hiding it now. They're just literally burning The Ballot Box and it's contents. Absolutely INSANE. pic.twitter.com/XTSXBhg6mG
— RyanRipz The Left 🇺🇸 (@RyanRipzTheLeft) October 28, 2024
Investigators noted that the incendiary devices bore the phrase “Free Gaza,” hinting at a possible motive. The Department of Homeland Security had recently issued a warning about potential incendiary threats to election sites, underscoring the need for increased security as Election Day nears.
As the investigation continues, authorities have urged the public to report any information about the suspect or vehicle to prevent further incidents. The ballot box attacks have raised security concerns and heightened tensions just days before the election.
