Authorities On High Alert As Ballot Box Bombing Suspect Remains At Large

With Election Day fast approaching, law enforcement in Oregon and Washington is on edge as they search for a suspect involved in multiple ballot box bombings. Portland Police spokesperson Mike Benner warned on Wednesday that “it is very possible the suspect intends to continue these targeted attacks across the area,” prompting heightened security.

The suspect is described as a white male between 30 and 40 years old with balding or very short hair, a thin face, and a medium build. Investigators believe he possesses skills in metal fabrication and welding, potentially used to create the incendiary devices that ignited ballot drop boxes in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington.

In Portland, damage was limited to a few ballots thanks to the fire suppression system in the ballot boxes. However, in Vancouver, nearly 500 ballots were destroyed after the suppression system failed to activate. Oregon Elections Director Tim Scott confirmed that the state’s system “worked exactly as it was supposed to” in containing the fire.

The investigation has turned its focus to a vehicle seen near the Portland bombing. Police describe it as an early 2000s Volvo S60 with dark wheels, a matte finish, a tan or light grey interior, and an aftermarket grille without the Volvo emblem. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information about the vehicle.

Investigators disclosed that the devices used in the attacks bore the message “Free Gaza,” hinting at a possible motive. The Department of Homeland Security had recently issued a warning about potential incendiary attacks targeting ballot boxes, increasing concerns across the region.

As the suspect remains at large, law enforcement is urging caution and vigilance. The Pacific Northwest is ramping up security to safeguard election integrity, with officials committed to preventing further incidents as voters cast their ballots.