Arsonist Torches 15 Police Vehicles at Portland Training Facility

In the early hours of Thursday morning, an arsonist set fire to at least 15 police vehicles at the Portland Police Bureau's training facility in northeast Portland, Oregon. The incident occurred around 1:55 a.m. near Portland International Airport, leaving a trail of charred patrol cars and SUVs in its wake. Despite the extensive damage to the vehicles, no injuries were reported.

Why this matters: This incident highlights the escalating tensions and violence in Portland, which could have broader implications for public safety and community trust in law enforcement. The attack on police property also raises concerns about the potential for further violence and vandalism in the city.

Firefighters swiftly responded to the scene, extinguishing the flames that had engulfed the vehicles within the fenced training area. The Portland Police Bureau immediately launched an investigation into the suspected arson attack, although they have not yet confirmed any connection to the protests that took place in downtown Portland hours earlier.

On Wednesday night, a group of approximately 100 protesters marched through the streets of downtown Portland, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The demonstrators, many carrying signs calling for a free Palestine, smashed windows at various businesses, including banks, coffee shops, and retail stores. Portland State University also fell victim to the vandalism.

Portland Police Chief Bob Day expressed his dismay at the recent events, stating, "I am disheartened by the acts of vandalism over the last 12 hours. Damaging downtown businesses and vehicles at our Training Division is unacceptable and will not be tolerated." Governor Tina Kotek echoed these sentiments, condemning the criminal actions that endangered first responders and the community.

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt vowed to work closely with fire investigators to identify those responsible for the arson attack. Schmidt emphasized that his office will take these cases "very seriously" and pursue the full extent of the law against the perpetrators.

This incident is not the first time Portland has grappled with suspected arson attacks on government property this year. In January, a series of fires burned city-owned equipment, including a forklift, excavator, and bulldozer. While no direct connection has been established between the two events, the proximity in location and targeting of government assets have raised concerns among officials.

The police vehicle arson probe ongoing, authorities urge anyone with information to contact Detective Meredith Hopper of the Portland Police Bureau at meredith.hopper@police.portlandoregon.gov or call the Portland Fire & Rescue tip line at 503-823-FIRE (3473), referencing case number 24-108126. The coming days will be pivotal in determining the trajectory of the investigation and the steps needed to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

Key Takeaways

• Arsonist sets fire to 15 police vehicles at Portland Police Bureau's training facility.
• No injuries reported, but extensive damage to vehicles.
• Incident follows protests in downtown Portland, with vandalism and property damage.
• Authorities launch investigation, urge anyone with info to come forward.
• Officials condemn violence, vow to take cases "very seriously" and pursue full extent of the law.