Investigators believe it is possible the suspect intends to continue these targeted attacks
The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) is asking for the public’s help in locating the suspect and suspect vehicle involved in intentionally setting fires at ballot boxes in Southeast Portland and Vancouver.
PPB is providing a description of the suspect and an updated description of the suspect vehicle.
Suspect: Caucasian male, 30-40 years of age, very short hair or balding, thin to medium build, thin face, wearing a dark shirt, highly knowledgeable in both metal fabrication and welding.
Suspect vehicle is reported to most likely be a 2001-2004 Volvo S60, more matte in color than a standard shiny finish in places, tan or light gray interior, after-market grill with Volvo emblem missing, dark wheels, unpainted body trim, no front license plate.
Investigators believe it is possible the suspect intends to continue these targeted attacks. A “Free Gaza” message appeared not only on the two devices, which were discovered on Monday, but also on a device found at a third ballot box Oct. 8 in Vancouver, according to the law enforcement officials. That device also had the words “Free Palestine” on it. Officials said at a news conference that they believed all three events were linked.
“We don’t know the motive behind these acts,” PPB Assistant Chief Amanda McMillan said. “We do know acts like this are targeted and they’re intentional and we’re concerned about that intentional act trying to impact the election process. We’re dedicated to stopping this kind of behavior.”
Anyone with information about the suspect or suspect vehicle is asked to contact Det. Meredith Hopper at Meredith.Hopper@police.portlandoregon.gov or call the PF&R Fire Investigation Unit’s tip line, (503) 823- FIRE (3473). Reference case number 24-276181.
In addition, information can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Oregon. Anyone wishing to submit a secure and anonymous tip regarding any unsolved felony crime should visit http://www.crimestoppersoforegon.com or visit the App Store and download P3 Tips for your mobile device.
Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards of up to $2,500 cash for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony crime and tipsters remain anonymous.
Crime Stoppers of Oregon is funded 100% by community donations. To support Crime Stoppers with a donation, or to view other unsolved cases, visit http://www.crimestoppersoforegon.com/.
Also read:
- Opinion: Time to limit emergency clauses and give voters a choice
Todd Myers urges the governor to remove emergency clauses from bills that appear intended to block voter input rather than address real emergencies. - Governor signs Rep. Stephanie McClintock’s teenage workforce bill into lawA new law championed by Rep. Stephanie McClintock will allow more flexible work hours for students in approved training programs starting July 2026.
- Washington Democrats abandon property tax hikeWashington Democrats have abandoned their proposal to repeal the 1% cap on property tax growth, ending a major tax debate this legislative session.
- Senate Democrats approve first wave of massive tax hikes; an ‘expensive day for the taxpayers’
Senate Democrats approved a series of new tax increases Saturday, prompting Republican leaders to warn of higher costs for working families across Washington. - Rep. Walsh wants to bring DOGE to Washington stateRep. Jim Walsh has introduced a bill to create the Washington Department of Government Efficiency, aiming to audit state agencies and cut waste as an alternative to proposed tax increases.
