BOSTON, Mass. – Federal authorities have arrested two young Massachusetts men in connection with a weekend explosion at Harvard Medical School, according to an announcement made Tuesday by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Officials identified the suspects as Logan David Patterson, 18, of Plymouth, and Dominick Frank Cardoza, 20, of Bourne. Both men face federal charges of conspiracy to damage property by means of fire or explosives and were arraigned in federal court on Tuesday afternoon.
Explosion Inside the Goldenson Building
The explosion occurred early Saturday morning on the fourth floor of the Goldenson Building, which houses labs and offices for the Harvard Medical School Department of Neurobiology. Fortunately, no one was injured, and there was no structural damage to the facility.
Authorities say that the Boston Fire Department quickly determined the blast was intentional. A building-wide sweep confirmed that no additional explosive devices were found at the scene.
An officer responding to a fire alarm that morning reported seeing two individuals running from the building, according to Harvard University Police. Surveillance footage and witness accounts later confirmed the suspects’ identities.
How the FBI Identified the Suspects
According to the charging documents, Patterson and Cardoza were in the Boston area visiting Wentworth College for Halloween festivities. Witnesses told investigators that the two men decided to enter the Harvard Medical School campus, allegedly targeting the Goldenson Building because they believed it looked abandoned.
The suspects reportedly gained access through the roof and detonated an explosive device inside the facility. Federal investigators have not yet disclosed the type of explosive used or the exact motive, but early findings suggest it was a homemade device designed for destructive intent.
“Anxiety levels naturally rise when the public learns that an explosion was intentionally caused,” said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley at a press conference. “I would say those levels may rise even higher in the Boston area.” Foley emphasized that while the investigation is ongoing, there is no continuing threat to the university or nearby institutions.
No Structural Damage, but Concerns Remain
Harvard Medical School officials confirmed that labs, offices, and research equipment were unharmed, and the building remains structurally sound. The school thanked emergency responders for their rapid action in containing the situation and ensuring campus safety.
Though the physical damage was minimal, the incident has sparked heightened security and anxiety within the academic community. The FBI, Boston Police, and Harvard University Police continue to collaborate on the case, reviewing digital evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine whether the suspects had any broader intentions.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
Authorities commended the quick response by Boston Fire Department crews and campus police, which prevented any further harm. Local officials also reassured students, faculty, and residents that the area remains safe.
This case has renewed discussions about campus safety, especially in the wake of recent national threats and incidents involving educational institutions.
Federal prosecutors confirmed that both Patterson and Cardoza are being held pending further court proceedings, and additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
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