Harvard Medical School Building Targeted in Apparent Arson Attack
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An investigation is underway after an explosion struck a building at Harvard Medical School on Saturday, November 1, with authorities indicating the incident “appeared to be intentional.” No injuries were reported in the early morning attack.
The Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) responded to a fire alarm at the Goldenson Building, located on the Boston campus’ main quad, at approximately 2:48 a.m. local time. Upon arrival, officers observed two individuals fleeing the scene and discovered evidence of an explosion on the fourth floor of the building, according to reports from NBC Boston, CNN, and The Harvard Crimson.
Investigation Launched, FBI Assists
The Boston Fire Department Arson Unit was immediately dispatched to the scene and confirmed the preliminary assessment of intentionality. A sweep of the Goldenson Building revealed no additional explosive devices, police told CNN.
“the Harvard University Police department is actively investigating this incident in coordination with local, state and federal law enforcement partners,” Harvard University stated in an email. The FBI has also confirmed its involvement in assisting with the investigation,as reported by The Harvard Crimson.
Suspects sought, Images Released
Harvard University has released security camera images of two individuals being sought in connection with the incident. The university is urging anyone with information that could lead to the identification of these suspects to contact authorities.
[Image of suspect 1 – The Harvard University Police Department]
[Image of suspect 2 – The Harvard University Police Department]
[Image of suspect 3 – the Harvard University Police Department]
A source with knowledge of the investigation revealed to The New York Post that the device used was not a traditional bomb, though further details regarding the nature of the explosive remain undisclosed.
Community Cooperation Requested
The HUPD is collaborating with multiple agencies on the ongoing investigation. Anyone possessing information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the department directly at 617-495-1796. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the motive and identify those responsible for the deliberate act at Harvard Medical School.
Why: The Goldenson Building at Harvard Medical School was targeted in what authorities believe was an intentional act of arson.
Who: The Harvard University Police Department (HUPD), with assistance from the Boston Fire Department Arson Unit and the FBI, are investigating the incident. Two unidentified individuals were observed fleeing the scene and are currently being sought as suspects.
What: An explosion occurred on the fourth floor of the Goldenson Building, triggering a fire alarm. While the device used wasn’t a traditional bomb, its exact nature remains undisclosed.No injuries were reported.
How did it end?: The investigation is ongoing. Authorities have secured the building, confirmed no further explosive devices were present, and released images of potential suspects to the public, requesting assistance in identifying them.The motive remains unknown, and the search for those responsible continues.
