“Free Gaza” messages found on devices near burned ballot boxes, New York Times reports

Investigators found devices with pro-Palestinian messages near all three ballot boxes set on fire this month in Vancouver and Portland, The New York Times reported Tuesday.

The FBI is investigating three separate but related incidents, including one Monday at the Fishers Landing Transit Center that resulted in the destruction of hundreds of ballots at a Clark County polling place in a nationally significant congressional race.

A fire at a Multnomah County ballot box in Portland was automatically extinguished Monday, destroying three ballots. A ballot box near West 13th and Esther streets in Vancouver. was attacked with an incendiary device three weeks ago, but not a single ballot was destroyed.

Two law enforcement officials told The New York Times that investigators found devices marked “Free Gaza Strip” at both arson attacks on Monday. The words “Free Palestine” appeared on a device found in a ballot box that was set on fire three weeks earlier, the newspaper reported. Officials do not know whether the suspect is actually a pro-Palestinian activist, the newspaper reported.

The information was attributed to two law enforcement officials who spoke on condition of anonymity, the newspaper reported.

Portland police spokesman Mike Benner said the incendiary device found in a Portland ballot box “has been sent for forensic analysis.”

“As part of this analysis, the device will be examined for unique writing and markings,” Benner wrote in an emailed response to questions. He did not confirm the newspaper’s report.

Police are looking for a 2001-2004 Volvo S-60 they believe is involved in the three incidents. The bureau has not yet determined a motive, Benner said.

— Fedor Zarkhin is a reporter of the latest news and entrepreneurship. Do you have a story? Contact him by phone or text at 971-373-2905 or email: [email protected].

Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com