Authorities are on high alert following troubling incidents involving ballot drop boxes across the Pacific Northwest. The FBI has announced they are offering up to $25,000 for any information leading to the arrest of the suspect involved in these suspected arsons, which have raised alarms just before the 2024 presidential election. The suspect is believed to be responsible for setting three separate fires, causing significant damage to ballots submitted by voters.
On October 8, the first fire occurred at a ballot box located in downtown Vancouver, Washington. Investigators reported this fire as established by the FBI to be intentional, but fortunately, no ballots were present at the time. The second and third incidents unfolded just weeks later, on October 28, when two ballot boxes — one situated at the Multnomah County Elections Division office and another near Fisher's Landing Transit Center — were targeted. Surveillance footage captured the harrowing moment when the alleged suspect drove up to the ballot box, ignited something, and left as sparks exploded from the device, damaging or destroying hundreds of ballots.
Clark County law enforcement officials stated they recovered approximately 488 damaged ballots from the device at Fisher's Landing, indicating how severe the impact of the attack was on the electoral process. Election officials believe some of the ballots may have been completely destroyed due to the fire.
Although initial reports suggested possible ideological motivations behind the arsons, with writings found at the scenes reading "Free Gaza" and "Free Palestine," FBI investigators have since emphasized the search for the vehicle as their primary goal. The suspect’s car is described as a dark early 2000s Volvo S60 sedan, lacking the Volvo logo on the grill and featuring fraudulent license plates.
FBI Special Agent Gregory Austin stated during a press conference, “The FBI’s mission is to protect the American people and protect the Constitution. These ballot-box arsons are an attack on both.” He urged the public to submit any tips, stressing, “No detail is too small. No tip too minor.” The agent also highlighted their belief the individual may have some experience with welding or metalworking, as the incendiary devices showed some sophistication. Nonetheless, he reassured the public they are mainly focused on identifying the suspect and gathering more evidence.
According to officials, the two incidents on October 28 are linked to the previous arson attempt due to the similarities found between the incendiary devices used. The Portland Police Bureau also confirmed they are coordinating with the FBI and local authorities as they investigate these incidents.
Following the attacks, there have been heightened security measures around ballot drop boxes. Patrols have increased around these locations, with election staff monitoring them 24/7 to deter any future incidents. Greg Kimsey, the Clark County Auditor, called the acts a “direct attack on democracy,” emphasizing the need for everyone's participation and safety during the electoral process.
These troubling events have sparked conversations among voters as they approach Election Day, adding to the stress surrounding what many view as one of the most pivotal elections of their lifetime. Authorities have been experiencing trouble restoring public confidence as fears mount about potential interference with voting procedures. Detailed measures have been put forward to replace any ballots affected by the fires quickly.
The atmosphere has been described as tense, with some voters feeling anxious about the safety of their submissions. Local election officials like Tim Scott, the director of elections for Multnomah County, have mentioned how nearly all voters within their jurisdiction prioritize mail-in voting over traditional polling due to the higher convenience it offers. This has been evidenced as the majority of votes are cast via drop-off ballots.
Experts have pointed out the importance of the investigation not only for identifying and arresting the arsonist but also for restoring trust within the community as they navigate through these difficult circumstances before the elections. Many feel this kind of attack undermines the very foundation of democracy, which is the ability to express one’s opinion through voting.
The FBI encourages anyone with useful information to reach out with tips through their website or contact their local field office. With much at stake, officials hope community members can help bring the responsible individual to justice to protect the integrity of future elections.
