Federal authorities have charged Shant Soghomonian with arson after he allegedly set fire to Senator Bernie Sanders' office door in Vermont, causing significant damage but no injuries.
ABC News reported that Soghomonian, a 35-year-old former resident of Northridge, California, stands accused of launching a fiery assault on Senator Bernie Sanders' Burlington office. The incident unfolded on the morning of April 5, 2024, when Soghomonian allegedly set the senator's office door ablaze. At approximately 10:45 a.m., the tranquility of Church Street, home to Sanders' third-floor office, was shattered by the emerging crisis.
At that dire moment, Senator Sanders was not present in the office, ensuring his safety from the immediate danger.
Nevertheless, the office was far from empty; seven staff members and some other individuals within the building found themselves in harm's way. The fire, targeting the office door and vestibule, posed a serious risk to everyone inside, potentially trapping them in a growing inferno.
Evidence of the arson was clear, with a canister of lighter fluid found abandoned near the scene, its contents presumably fueling the flames that attempted to penetrate the senator's office. Surveillance footage later revealed the culprit in action: Soghomonian was captured spraying the liquid and subsequently igniting it, setting off a fire that rapidly consumed the office's entrance before he made a quick escape down the staircase.
The Burlington Fire Department's prompt arrival and decisive action were critical. Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames before they could cause any bodily harm; however, the office did not escape unscathed. The ensuing water from the activated sprinkler systems inflicted extensive damage upon the senator's office, a place meant to serve the interests of Vermonters.
In a turn of events that sealed the suspect's fate, Soghomonian's hideout was unveiled. He was apprehended at a La Quinta Inn in South Burlington. A vigilant hotel staff member, having recognized him from the surveillance images disseminated by the police, tipped off the authorities. When law enforcement arrived to make the arrest, they found Soghomonian attempting to fortify his hotel room with heavy items, presumably in a futile attempt to resist apprehension.
As investigations into the motive behind this audacious act continue, the legal ramifications for Soghomonian are becoming starkly clear. He now faces serious federal charges for utilizing fire to damage a building engaged in interstate commerce. Such a crime bears severe consequences, including the possibility of 5 to 20 years behind bars and a fine reaching up to $250,000.
The gravity of the situation was underscored by U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest, who conveyed the peril faced by those in the office at the time of the attack. Kerest eloquently detailed the threat to life posed by the fire and the ensuing challenge of evacuating the staff members safely. The surveillance footage, showing Soghomonian's deliberate actions, was pivotal in illustrating the premeditated nature of the attack.
Senator Bernie Sanders, reflecting on the incident, expressed deep gratitude for the quick and professional response from local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. His relief that no injuries were reported resonated with many, as did his appreciation for the community's support and well-wishes.
As this story continues to unfold, the community's resilience and unity in the face of such an attack on one of its political offices shine through. While the motive behind this heinous act remains under investigation, the strength of Burlington's response showcases a collective commitment to safety and democracy. The incident at Senator Bernie Sanders' office, though alarming, has revealed the unwavering spirit of Vermonters, determined to overcome adversity together.
In conclusion, the arson attack on Senator Bernie Sanders' office on April 5, 2024, orchestrated by Shant Soghomonian, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk within our communities. Despite the significant damage incurred, the swift response from the Burlington Fire Department and law enforcement ensured there were no physical injuries. Soghomonian faces severe federal charges, with a potential prison sentence hanging over him. Through it all, the response from the community and Senator Sanders himself has been one of gratitude and resilience, emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of challenges.