In a concerning development, Portland, Oregon is grappling with a surge in open-air drug use and anarchistic activities. Recently, a car parked in front of City Commissioner Rene Gonzalez’s home was set on fire in what appears to be an act of arson. This incident is part of a series of targeted attacks against Gonzalez, who has been a vocal supporter of law and order.
The car, a 2024 Honda Accord, caught fire around 1:30 a.m. on Friday, but luckily, no one was injured, and firefighters were able to extinguish the flames. Investigators believe that the fire was intentionally set. The Accord belonged to a family member of Commissioner Gonzalez, who has been targeted by vandals multiple times during his campaign.
A local blog, known for its anarchist and radical content, shared a post claiming responsibility for the fire. The anonymous blogger detailed how the act was carried out and expressed regret for not attacking the other vehicles parked outside the commissioner’s home. The Portland Police Bureau is currently investigating whether the blog post is connected to the incident.
Commissioner Gonzalez, a political newcomer who identifies as a centrist, has faced opposition from far-left activists due to his approach to public safety, livability, and the homeless crisis. His policies, including banning a city agency from distributing tents and tarps to people sleeping outside, have drawn criticism. Prior to the 2022 election, his campaign headquarters’ windows were repeatedly smashed.
The recent attack was reportedly timed just before a winter storm hit the Portland area, causing significant damage and power outages. The blog post dedicated the act to the memory of deceased anarchists worldwide and individuals killed by Portland police in previous incidents.
Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt has condemned the attack as “political vandalism” and asserted that illegal coercion will not be tolerated. He has vowed to prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law.
The investigation into the arson attack remains ongoing, and authorities are determined to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions. Portland continues to grapple with rising drug use and growing tensions between different factions within the city.
In conclusion, the targeted attack on Commissioner Gonzalez’s home highlights the escalating conflict between anarchists and political figures in Portland, with law and order becoming a central issue. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges the city faces in reconciling differing ideologies and addressing the pressing concerns of homelessness and public safety.
