Staff Reports
A man has been ordered to be held in custody for causing a fire outside the office of independent U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont. The man, Shant Michael Soghomonian, has been charged with maliciously damaging or attempting to damage and destroy a building used in interstate commerce by starting a fire outside Sanders’ office.
Suspect in fire outside of U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders' Vermont office to remain detained, judge says https://t.co/jK0z0F4IKs
— KTVB.COM (@KTVB) April 18, 2024
Surveillance video showed the man throwing a liquid at the bottom of a door opening into Sanders’ third-floor office and igniting it with a lighter. Fortunately, Sanders was not in the office at the time, and all seven employees inside were able to escape unharmed. However, the building’s interior sustained damage from the fire and water sprinklers.
Soghomonian, who had been staying at a hotel in South Burlington, had been seen outside Sanders’ office the day before and the day of the fire. Prosecutors argued that he poses a danger to the community and may try to flee, therefore should remain detained. The motive for the arson remains unclear.
This incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of political offices, and it is a reminder of the importance of protecting public officials and their staff. It is fortunate that no one was injured during the fire, and it is essential that steps are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The judicial system will now proceed with further legal proceedings to address the charges against Soghomonian. It is crucial for the safety and security of all individuals involved that the legal process ensures accountability for his actions and takes into consideration the potential risks he may pose to the community.
