An explosion rocks Harvard Medical School—but the motive remains shrouded in mystery. In a world where every incident is scrutinized through a political lens, this event stands out for its lack of clear agenda. Early Saturday morning, a blast on the fourth floor of a research building in Boston’s Longwood area sent shockwaves through the community, though thankfully, no one was injured and property damage was minimal. Yet, in today’s hyper-polarized climate, especially on university campuses, such incidents are bound to raise eyebrows.
Harvard, no stranger to controversy, has been locked in a heated policy battle with the Trump administration over allegations of bias against conservatives. Meanwhile, protests have erupted across college campuses as left-leaning students pressure universities to sever ties with Israel over its actions in Gaza. But here’s where it gets intriguing: the seven-page probable cause affidavit filed by the FBI reveals no political motive. US Attorney Leah Foley, while acknowledging the anxiety such incidents provoke, declined to speculate, emphasizing the investigation is still in its early stages.
During a press conference, Foley drew parallels to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, highlighting the fear these events can instill. ‘Anxiety levels naturally rise when the public learns that an explosion was intentionally caused,’ she noted. ‘In Boston, those levels may rise even higher.’ Authorities, however, assure there’s no ongoing threat to the public.
Two individuals, identified as Cardoza and Patterson, were arrested but released on conditions, including staying away from Harvard and avoiding dangerous weapons—yes, even fireworks. Their attorneys argue the incident amounts to nothing more than property damage, a far cry from federal charges. But is it really that simple? Or is there more to the story than meets the eye?
According to the affidavit, the pair’s night began at Wentworth Institute of Technology, where they joined others for Halloween festivities. Surveillance footage places them in Longwood after 2 a.m., dressed in distinctive attire—one in a balaclava and white Crocs, the other in a blue mask and plaid pajama pants. By 2:24 a.m., they were setting off Roman candle fireworks outside the medical school. Minutes later, they were climbing scaffolding to access the building’s roof. At 2:45 a.m., the explosion occurred on the fourth floor, home to a neurobiology research lab.
Their escape was as chaotic as their arrival. Cardoza ditched his plaid pants in a trash bin, while Patterson returned to Wentworth, frantically running between buildings. Eventually, they reunited with a third individual, not charged in the incident, and attempted to enter another dorm before heading to the Massachusetts College of Art and Design campus. By afternoon, they were en route to the University of Massachusetts Amherst to continue their party.
As news of the explosion spread, Wentworth students came forward, identifying the pair. Patterson had reportedly boasted about setting off a cherry bomb in the Harvard building, claiming they ‘chose a building that looked abandoned.’ But why? Was it mere recklessness, or something more calculated? The affidavit doesn’t provide answers, leaving room for speculation.
Harvard, already on high alert, has been vigilant about potential threats. Earlier this year, the university pledged to cover security expenses for Harvard Hillel, a Jewish campus organization, amid concerns of antisemitic violence. In a separate incident, a New Hampshire man received probation for bringing a hoax device to Harvard’s Science Center Plaza in 2023, part of a bizarre scheme involving a Craigslist ad and a cryptocurrency demand.
As the investigation unfolds, one question lingers: In an era of heightened tensions, how do we distinguish between senseless acts and something more sinister? What do you think? Is this just a case of poor judgment, or could there be deeper implications? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
