An intentional fire outside the office of Sen. Bernie Sanders in Vermont caused minor damage but no injuries, authorities confirmed on Friday. Firefighters were called to the scene in Burlington after a fire was discovered between the vestibule, elevator, and entrance door of Sanders' third-floor office.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the office door sustained moderate fire damage, and significant water damage affected much of the third floor and floors below. Fire crews swiftly extinguished the fire and ensured the safety of occupants in the building.
Investigators revealed that a male suspect sprayed a possible accelerant on the office floor, ignited the fire, and fled the scene. The fire quickly spread, impeding the egress of staff members working in the office. The sprinkler system activated and played a crucial role in containing the fire.
The Burlington Fire Marshal's office classified the incident as 'incendiary in nature,' prompting the Vermont State Police to take over the investigation in collaboration with the Burlington Police Department. The motive behind the deliberate act remains undisclosed, and it is unclear whether Sanders was present in Vermont during the incident.
Authorities are actively seeking the male suspect responsible for setting the fire outside Sen. Bernie Sanders' office. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of public officials and their workplaces, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations and heightened security measures.
