Police are currently searching for a suspect in connection with an alleged arson incident at the Burlington office of Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders.
A fire broke out at 10:45 a.m. ET on Friday in the vestibule between the elevator and the entrance door to Sanders’ office. The office is situated on the third floor of 1 Church St., according to authorities.
According to the Burlington Police Department, a man entered the vestibule of the senator’s office. He proceeded to spray what appeared to be an accelerant on the door, lit it, and quickly fled the scene.
According to a statement from the Burlington Police Department, a fire broke out at the door and part of the vestibule, creating a dangerous situation for the staff members working in the office. The fire was significant and hindered their ability to exit the area, putting their lives at risk.
According to the police, the sprinkler system effectively put out the fire in the senator’s office, resulting in “moderate” damage to the door. However, the floors below, including the third floor, suffered “significant” water damage.
According to the police, there have been no reported injuries, and Sanders was not present during the incident.
According to a press release from the Burlington Fire Department, the fire has been classified as incendiary by the Burlington Fire Marshal’s office.
Burlington police are searching for a male suspect in connection with the incident and have released surveillance stills of the unidentified individual.
The motive behind the incident is currently unknown, according to the authorities. Both the Vermont State Police and the Burlington Police Department are collaborating on a joint investigation.
Kathryn Van Haste, the Vermont state director for Sanders’ office, expressed gratitude towards the police and fire crews who responded.
Van Haste expressed relief in a statement, stating that no one on their staff or in the building was harmed.
The U.S. Capitol Police and the Senate Sergeant at Arms are collaborating closely with local first responders.
