An early-morning explosion at Harvard Medical School shocked the Boston community on November 1, prompting a swift investigation that led to the arrest of two Massachusetts men. The FBI’s Boston field office confirmed on November 4 that 18-year-old Logan David Patterson and 20-year-old Dominique Frank Cardoza were taken into custody in connection with the blast.
Authorities say the two suspects allegedly used a Roman candle firework to cause the explosion at the Goldenson Building on Longwood Avenue, part of the Harvard Medical School complex. Surveillance footage captured both men climbing scaffolding to reach the fourth floor just before the blast occurred around 2:45 a.m.
Witnesses told investigators the pair had attended a Halloween event at Wentworth College earlier that night before heading to Harvard. They reportedly chose the Goldenson Building because it appeared abandoned.
FBI Special Agent Ted Docks, who led the investigation, said the explosion could have caused severe injuries or even fatalities if anyone had been nearby. “It was pure luck — and the quick response of emergency personnel — that prevented a tragedy,” Docks said. “Placing explosives inside an academic building is not a prank. It’s selfish, reckless, and a serious federal crime.”
Investigators said the suspects even bragged to friends afterward, though they tried to hide evidence. Cardoza allegedly disposed of his pants in a trash bin after the incident. “They knew what they did was wrong — and they did it anyway,” Docks added.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force worked alongside Harvard University Police to identify and arrest the suspects. U.S. Attorney Leah Foley called their actions “reckless and illegal,” emphasizing that such behavior carries serious consequences under federal law.
Authorities have found no evidence suggesting an ongoing threat to Harvard or the public. Following the blast, Harvard police officers arrived within minutes and reportedly saw two masked individuals fleeing the scene. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and the building sustained minimal damage.
The Goldenson Building has since been cleared and deemed structurally safe, with laboratories and equipment left intact.
