Suspect in Oregon, Washington Ballot Box Fires Likely an Experienced Metalworker: Officials

The suspect has a ‘wealth of experience in metal fabrication welding,’ officials say.

First responders extinguish the burning contents of a ballot box, after it was set on fire in a suspected arson incident in Vancouver, Wash., on Oct. 28, 2024, in a still image from video. Evan Bell/ABC Affiliate KATU via Reuters

The person suspected of setting fires in Oregon and Washington state ballot drop boxes is a metalworker and might be planning more attacks, officials said on Oct. 30.

Portland Police Bureau spokesman Mike Benner said that the man, who has not been identified, had a “wealth of experience in metal fabrication and welding” before he set off incendiary devices in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington.