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:
- Nick Brown defeats Pete Serrano in Washington state’s AG raceNick Brown wins Washington AG race, defeating Pete Serrano with a decisive lead.
- Clark County Republican Party celebrates election night with their own partyClark County Republicans gather in Hockinson for an election night party, supporting candidates like Joe Kent and celebrating American democracy.
- Kent and supporters down but not out in race for CongressJoe Kent remains hopeful in close race for Washington’s 3rd Congressional District despite trailing incumbent Marie Gluesenkamp Perez after initial results.
- Election 2024: Area races too close to callSouthwest Washington races remain undecided with high voter turnout, awaiting further results.
- Trump declares victoryDonald Trump declares victory in 2024 race, securing key swing states and edging closer to 270 Electoral College votes.