Hundreds of Ballots Destroyed in Oregon and Washington Ballot Box Fires

Fires damage ballots in Portland and Vancouver as voters are urged to check ballot status; officials emphasize election security amid ongoing investigations.

Authorities investigate smoke pouring out of a ballot box in Vancouver, Wash., on Oct. 28, 2024, in a still from video. KGW8 via AP

Two fires at ballot drop boxes in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, led to police responses early on Oct. 28, with one fire resulting in the destruction of potentially hundreds of ballots. Officials said at a press conference that they believe the incidents are connected and that they have identified a suspect vehicle.

At about 3:30 a.m. in Portland, officers responded to reports of a fire at a ballot drop box outside the Multnomah County elections office.