NEW DELHI: A man, identified as Shant Soghomonian (also known as Michael Soghomonian), 35, from California, was arrested in Vermont for allegedly starting a fire outside the office of US Senator Bernie Sanders in Burlington.
The incident occurred at One Church Street, where Soghomonian used an accelerant and a lighter, causing a blaze before fleeing the scene.
Fortunately, the building’s sprinklers quickly extinguished the fire, and no injuries were reported.Sanders was not present in the office at the time.
The motive behind the act remains undisclosed, and Soghomonian’s lawyer has not been assigned yet. Authorities praised the swift response of Burlington Police Department detectives, ATF agents, and the US Attorney’s Office in resolving the case.
If convicted, Soghomonian could face a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. An initial court appearance for Soghomonian is pending.
The incident took place despite the presence of multiple employees in Sanders’ office. Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak acknowledged the collaborative effort in handling the investigation.
The incident occurred at One Church Street, where Soghomonian used an accelerant and a lighter, causing a blaze before fleeing the scene.
Fortunately, the building’s sprinklers quickly extinguished the fire, and no injuries were reported.Sanders was not present in the office at the time.
The motive behind the act remains undisclosed, and Soghomonian’s lawyer has not been assigned yet. Authorities praised the swift response of Burlington Police Department detectives, ATF agents, and the US Attorney’s Office in resolving the case.
If convicted, Soghomonian could face a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. An initial court appearance for Soghomonian is pending.
The incident took place despite the presence of multiple employees in Sanders’ office. Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak acknowledged the collaborative effort in handling the investigation.