Local News
Ballot box is on fire in Vancouver, WA near Portland
By the time officers arrived, security guards had already extinguished the flames.
Police in Oregon and Washington are investigating incidents involving ballot boxes that were intentionally set on fire.
On Monday morning, Portland Police Bureau officers responded to a reported fire at a ballot drop box on the 1000 block of Southeast Morrison Street.
By the time officers arrived, security guards had already extinguished the flames.
Authorities indicated that the fire was started with an incendiary device placed inside the ballot box. Portland’s Explosive Disposal Unit was called to the scene to assess and safely clear the device.
Meanwhile, police in Vancouver, Washington, are investigating a similar incident that took place on Monday morning at the C-TRAN Park & Ride at Fisher’s Landing Transit Center.
According to witnesses, a device placed outside the ballot box ignited the fire, causing hundreds of ballots to burn.
Officials noted that the last ballot collection from this box was at 11 a.m. on Saturday, suggesting the fire had affected a significant amount of uncollected ballots.
These incidents follow a similar case in Arizona last week, where a fire broke out just before 1:30 a.m. on October 24 outside a post office near 7th Avenue and Indian School Road.
Phoenix Fire crews arrived on the scene and quickly extinguished the flames, though the fire damaged twenty electoral ballots along with other pieces of mail.
Phoenix Fire Captain Rob McDade reported that the Postal Inspector took possession of the damaged ballots and mail.
The Phoenix Fire Investigations Task Force, which includes Phoenix Police detectives and fire investigators, is working closely with U.S. Postal Inspectors to investigate the cause and intent behind the incident.
On Monday, February 17th, 2025, Kandice Bell tragically took her own life at Galleria Mall, leaving behind five children.
While her four younger children are now in the care of their father and stepmother, her eldest son, 17-year-old Elijah, is left without either parent, as his father is not in the picture.
Sadly, Kandice did not have life insurance or any financial resources to provide for her children’s future.
Gina Hearn, a close family friend, has stepped forward to care for Elijah, opening her home and heart to him.
However, Gina and her husband Josh, along with their three children, are already managing the financial demands of a family of five.
Accommodating Elijah adds new challenges, including the need for a larger vehicle since their current one only seats five.
Elijah will be staying with the Hearns for at least the next two years, and as he copes with this unimaginable loss, they want to provide him with the stability, love, and support he needs to heal and thrive.
One of Elijah’s greatest passions is boxing, and continuing his training is essential in maintaining a sense of normalcy during this difficult time.
To ensure Elijah’s well-being, any support—big or small—will go directly toward covering his living expenses, school needs, therapy, and helping the family secure a larger vehicle to accommodate him.
Every contribution will make a meaningful impact on Elijah’s future.
This devastating tragedy also serves as a critical reminder of the importance of mental health awareness. Silent struggles can weigh heavily on individuals, sometimes making them feel as if there is no way out.
If you or someone you know is suffering, please reach out—whether to a friend, family member, or mental health professional. Your well-being matters more than you may realize.
Elijah has lost both of his parents, but with the help of compassionate individuals, he does not have to navigate this journey alone.
Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support in giving Elijah the care and resources he needs to rebuild his life.