An arrest has been made in the June 12 firebombing of an election office in Archuleta County, Colorado, an attack that targeted vital voting equipment. Authorities arrested 71-year-old William Wayne Bryant on June 26. He faces felony charges of first-degree arson and possession of an explosive or incendiary device after allegedly hurling a Molotov cocktail-type device into a room storing voting machines.
Bryant, who has since been released on a $10,000 surety bond, is scheduled to appear in court on July 23 to face formal charges.
Suspect Linked to Election Conspiracies
According to the affidavit for arrest, Bryant had publicly expressed anti-tax views and election conspiracy theories — the kind of rhetoric that has surged nationally since 2020 and often targeted election offices and workers.
“It is appalling that a Colorado elections office was firebombed, and even more so that the suspect has a history of spreading election conspiracies,” said Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold in a statement. “Attacks on democratic institutions must be strongly condemned.”
Impact on Election Staff Nationwide
Election-related violence and threats have become more common across the U.S. since the 2020 election. According to the Bipartisan Policy Center, national election staff turnover has jumped to 36%, with Colorado experiencing an even higher rate at 40%. CBS News found that 25 of Colorado’s 64 counties have lost at least one top-level election official since 2020—meaning 39% of those running elections this year are new to the job.
“Any attempt to intimidate or harm [election officials]—or compromise their facilities—is an affront to democracy itself,” said Matt Crane, Executive Director of the Colorado County Clerks Association.
Investigation Ongoing
The attack occurred in the early hours of June 12. The explosive device was thrown into a secured room holding voting machines. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Officials have not indicated whether any election data or equipment was damaged.
Bryant’s attorney, David Ottman—a former prosecutor in the same judicial district—has not responded to media inquiries as of Monday.
Law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal levels are continuing the investigation. The Colorado Secretary of State’s Office pledged ongoing support to the Archuleta County Clerk’s Office to ensure election operations remain secure and fully functional.
This case underscores growing concerns about the safety of election workers and the threats facing U.S. democratic institutions ahead of the 2025 presidential election.
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