Surveillance Video Released by FBI Shows Suspect Setting Ballot Drop Box on Fire in Portland
The FBI has recently released surveillance video capturing an unidentified suspect setting a ballot drop box on fire with an incendiary device in Portland. This incident is just one of several that have occurred in Oregon and Washington state in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election.
Suspect Description and Vehicle Details
According to investigators, the suspect is described as a White male, aged between 30 and 40, who is balding with short hair. Authorities believe that the individual may have some experience with metalwork and welding, indicating a potential knowledge of incendiary devices.
The surveillance footage reveals the suspect driving up to the ballot drop box in an early 2003 to 2004 Volvo S-60 sedan. The vehicle is described as dark, with dark wheels and a light-colored interior. Notably, there is no Volvo logo on the front grill. At the time of the incident, the suspect’s vehicle displayed a fraudulent temporary Washington state license plate on the rear and no front license plate. It is important to note that the plate, which is not associated with a Volvo, may have been removed from the vehicle since then.
Connection Between Fires at Oregon and Washington Ballot Boxes
The first ballot box fire occurred on October 8 in Vancouver, Washington, between 3:30 a.m. and 4 a.m., according to the FBI. Fortunately, no ballots were damaged in that particular incident. However, two more incidents took place on October 28, between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m., in Vancouver and Portland. The drop box in Vancouver suffered extensive damage, with hundreds of ballots being destroyed. In Portland, three ballots were damaged.
Fire Suppression Systems Failed to Contain the Flames
Despite being equipped with fire suppression systems, the ballot boxes were unable to prevent the destruction caused by the fires. In particular, the fire suppression system in the Vancouver drop box failed, resulting in more ballots being destroyed. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of the current security measures in place for protecting these important democratic tools.
Investigation Progress and Call for Justice
Investigators have confirmed that all three incidents involved improvised incendiary devices placed on the outside of the ballot boxes. The recovered materials from these devices have allowed authorities to establish a clear link between all three fires. Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey has condemned the incidents, referring to them as a direct attack on democracy, especially considering the proximity to Election Day.
A Reward for Information Leading to Arrest and Conviction
Authorities are taking these incidents seriously and are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect. This reward highlights the urgency and importance of bringing the perpetrator to justice and ensuring the safety and integrity of future elections.
