Authorities have arrested a 35-year-old man in connection with an alleged arson at Sen. Bernie Sanders’ office in Vermont. The suspect, identified as Shant Soghomonian, was charged with using fire to damage the building in Burlington. Soghomonian, also known as Michael, is originally from Northridge, California.
According to court records cited by the Justice Department, Soghomonian entered the building on Friday morning and proceeded to the third floor where the senator’s offices are located. Security footage captured him spraying a liquid near the outer door of the office and igniting the area with a handheld lighter. He then fled the scene as the fire spread, causing damage to the office door and surrounding areas.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries as multiple employees were present in the office at the time of the incident. The fire triggered sprinklers on multiple floors, but the situation was contained without further harm.
If convicted, Soghomonian could face a prison sentence ranging from five to 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000. The Justice Department has not yet assigned a lawyer to the suspect.
Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak expressed gratitude to law enforcement and partners for their swift action in apprehending the suspect. She commended the Burlington Police Department detectives, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their collaborative efforts in resolving the case.
Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak also extended support from the Burlington Community Justice Center to Senator Sanders’s staff, offering assistance as they navigate the aftermath of the incident. The community remains vigilant as the investigation progresses and justice is served.
