Maricopa County Democratic Party Arson: 5 Things To Know

PHOENIX — In the early morning hours Friday, a fire destroyed the headquarters of the Maricopa County Democratic Party in central Phoenix. An investigation by the Phoenix Fire Department revealed the cause of the fire to be arson. No one was inside the building, but years of files, computers and historical election memorabilia were lost in the blaze. Here are five things you need to know about the fire.

1. It Was Ruled An Arson

The fire began around 1 a.m. and was quickly extinguished, but not before destroying the north side of the building, which housed the Maricopa County Democratic Party. Phoenix police spokeswoman Sgt. Mercedes Fortune said the incident is being investigated as an arson based on evidence discovered at the scene, as reported by the Arizona Republic. An ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Phoenix Fire Investigation Task Force and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

2. It Didn’t Impact The Party’s Summer Convention

Just one day after the fire, the organization held its summer convention by Zoom as planned. The event, which attracted 700 attendees, was held to raise money for Democratic candidates and strategize for the November election. During the event, donations poured in from different legislative districts to help rebuild the destroyed offices at Central Avenue and Thomas Road. In all, $40,000 was raised.

"We won't let this deter us like the bird this city is named after — the Phoenix," said Steven Slugocki, the county party chair said. "We will rise from the ashes stronger than ever before."

3. The Party Has Been Threatened Before

Arizona Democratic Party Chair Felecia Rotellini told 12News that this is not the first time the Arizona Democratic Party has been targeted during this election cycle. Rotellini did not elaborate on the other threats.

"This whole election cycle, presidential cycle, we have not been strangers to proposed attacks, by threats towards people and our building," Rotellini said.

4. The Election Cycle Is Heating Up

Arizona’s primary election is set to take place Aug. 4. It is unclear how this incident will affect the Democratic Party moving forward into November.

5. Investigators Will Release New Information This Week

In an interview with Patch, Phoenix Fire Department spokesman Capt. Rob McDade said he expects new information to be released to the public by Wednesday.

“Our task force feels that we’re going to be releasing some evidence if not [Tuesday], then probably Wednesday, related to this case that will hopefully help get the word out of just exactly what we’re looking for in connection to this arson fire,” McDade said.

McDade encouraged anyone with information regarding the fire to come forward by calling Silent Witness at 480-948-6377 and to stay tuned this week regarding more information about suspects.