(The Situation Update Report [SUR] is a near real-time brief of a possible threat or situation being monitored by The Counter Threat Center. The information is accurate at the time of reporting, but may be subject to change.)
Samuel Pearson, Sabrina Bernardo, Zara Price
Clémence Van Damme, Editor; Elena Alice Rossetti, Senior Editor
November 5, 2024
Police Car[1]
Current Situation: Poll workers in Fowler, New York State, turned away an unidentified man with a felony background, who threatened to set the polling station on fire and to return with a firearm. Polling station authorities discovered the man was ineligible to vote immediately before he issued threats. New York State Police (NYSP) found the individual and arrested him. The individual did not resist arrest.[2]
Day/Time of event: November 5, 2024 / Around 0635 local time
What is the current threat:
Due to the individuals' felony background and threats involving arson and firearms, law enforcement will very likely increase patrols around other polling sites and public buildings to deter future action. Law enforcement presence in the area will very likely be heightened in the immediate term. This elevated presence will likely act as both a deterrent and a protective measure against potential copycat actions, further escalation by the individual or others inspired by the event. The suspect’s capture likely reduces immediate risk, but continuous monitoring and a visible law enforcement presence are very likely certainly required to ensure community safety and deter any further incidents.
The circumstances of the incident likely indicate the threats were not connected to a premeditated plan to inflict harm, and were likely due to a spontaneous emotional reaction by the individual. There is a roughly even chance that the individual would have returned with a firearm or acted on his threats.
Community members and residents will very likely encounter and spread unverified information regarding the incident. This misinformation almost certainly risks generating heightened public fear and distress, likely impacting voter turnout and public trust in the area’s safety. Proactive and transparent communication from local authorities and the NYSP, such as public briefings or statements, will likely be essential to control misinformation, clarify the suspect’s current status, and reduce any potential for panic or disruption among the public.
Who will it directly impact:
Local authorities and law enforcement
NYSP
Voters present at the polling station
Staff and volunteers at the polling station
Fowler residents
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[1] Police, generated by a third party database
[2] State Police investigate a threat at the Town of Fowler offices, New York State Police (NYSP), November 5, 2024 https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigate-threat-town-fowler-offices