PORTLAND Hours. (KPTV) – After hundreds of ballots were destroyed at polls in the Pacific Northwest on Monday, a fire and explosives expert is weighing in on an investigation he said is just beginning.

Nicole Brewer, a 26-year fire investigator, spent most of her career with Portland Fire & Rescue, but now works in the private sector as a consultant for Envista Forensics. While she could not speculate on the details of the investigation surrounding the ballot box fires, she said the fact that crime surrounds voting during a heated election cycle will certainly be considered.

“I’m sure they will test everything and look at all aspects of this investigation. I mean, it’s weird in that it was with an urn to begin with, and I think we’re all aware of that. They’re taking this very seriously and I’m sure they’re going to find whoever did this,” Brewer said.

SEE ALSO:

As for how long the investigation will take or when the public can expect answers, it’s unknown. Still, Brewer is confident that answers will eventually trickle in.

“They need time to investigate. There are a lot of people involved. There’s a lot of information that could come to them, reliable information and maybe even not-so-reliable information, but they have to filter through all of that,” Brewer explained.

Wednesday, Portland Police released a description of the suspect they believe they may be responsible for destroying a few ballots in SE Portland and hundreds in Vancouver. They also revealed that they believe he is very knowledgeable in mental fabrication and welding.

“I’m sure the team is paying attention to these things and everyone will be working diligently to try to put all those pieces together to understand not just how this happened and not just who did it, but why.” Brewer said.

SEE ALSO:

With so many unknowns, Brewer said she understands why this incident is alarming to the public, but she and local officials are urging voters not to let this incident deter them from voting.

“While this is a scary thing, know that there are people out there who are dealing with the problem,” Brewer said. “It’s definitely something to worry about, but try to keep going.”

Authorities believe the suspect may strike again. Crime Stoppers of Oregon is offering a $2,500 reward to anyone who can provide information leading to an arrest.

Copyright 2024 KPTV-KPDX. All rights reserved.