Harvard Medical School Explosion: First Photos Of Possible Suspects Released By Police

Authorities have released surveillance images of two masked individuals wanted for questioning following an intentional explosion that rocked a Harvard Medical School research building early Saturday morning, prompting a sweeping federal investigation across Boston’s Longwood Medical Campus. According to Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) officials, the blast occurred at approximately 2:48 a.m. inside the Goldenson Building, which houses the school’s molecular biology and genetics laboratories. While the explosion caused structural damage, no injuries were reported. HUPD spokesperson Steven G. Catalano confirmed that an officer on patrol witnessed two people fleeing the scene moments before the blast. “The Boston Fire Department Arson Unit has determined the explosion to be intentional,” Catalano said. “We are working closely with local, state, and federal authorities to identify the individuals involved.” Surveillance Photos Released of Hooded Suspects By late afternoon, police released two still images captured from security cameras showing two masked men dressed in dark hooded sweatshirts and ski masks walking through a hallway near the site of the explosion. Both are now considered persons of interest in what investigators are referring to as the “Harvard Bombing – CAS Incident”, short for Chemical and Academic Sciences. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Harvard Detective Bureau at 617-495-1796. The Boston Police Department (BPD) and FBI Boston Field Office are jointly investigating the incident, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). BPD confirmed the building was swept for additional explosive devices, none of which were found. Federal Agents Examine Chemical Residue FBI spokesperson Kristen M. Setera described the inquiry as a “complex, coordinated investigation.” Forensic teams are analysing residue samples to determine the device’s chemical composition. “At this stage, we can confirm the incident was deliberate,” Setera said. “Our teams are working with campus security to establish a timeline and identify the suspects seen fleeing the scene.” No organisation has claimed responsibility. Investigators are reportedly considering motives ranging from academic sabotage to politically motivated vandalism. Boston Fire officials called the incident “contained but concerning,” noting that the device appeared to be locally assembled, suggesting the suspects may have had access to chemical materials. Campus on Alert, Building Closed for Forensics Harvard University has tightened security across the Longwood Medical Area, which also includes Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. In an internal notice, Harvard urged staff and students to remain vigilant and travel in pairs at night. “There is no immediate threat to the campus community,” the statement read, “but patrols have been increased out of caution.” The Goldenson Building remains closed pending completion of the FBI’s forensic sweep. As of Saturday night, investigators were still reviewing street and lab corridor surveillance footage to trace the suspects’ escape route. “This investigation remains very active,” Harvard Police said. “We are pursuing all leads.” Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News and around the World.