Authorities say an explosion inside a Harvard Medical School facility in Boston early Saturday was a deliberate act, prompting a large-scale investigation that now includes the FBI. No casualties were reported, but the incident has escalated security concerns across the university’s Longwood Campus.
According to initial reports, the blast took place just before 3 a.m. on the fourth floor of the Goldenson Building, a research facility within Harvard’s medical complex. Campus police stated that two unidentified individuals were observed running from the location moments after the explosion. A responding university officer attempted to intercept them but was unable to do so before entering the structure to assess the situation and respond to alarms triggered by the blast.
Emergency crews from the Boston Fire Department arrived shortly after and conducted an extensive search of the premises. Officials later confirmed that the explosion was set intentionally, although early sweeps did not uncover any secondary devices or additional threats within the building. The specific type of explosive material used and the extent of property damage have not been disclosed.
The FBI Boston Field Office has joined Harvard University Police and local authorities in examining the scene and collecting evidence. Federal agents are working alongside state and municipal investigators to identify the individuals seen fleeing the building and determine whether the incident was part of a broader threat or an isolated criminal act.
Harvard University Police issued a public statement noting that the investigation remains active and urging anyone with relevant information to contact their Detective Bureau. They also provided contact details for public inquiries and emphasized cooperation between campus security and federal agencies.
Law-enforcement officials have not commented on possible motives and have withheld technical details about the explosive device as the inquiry continues. The timing of this event coincides with heightened national scrutiny of universities, as Harvard faces political pressure, lawsuits, and ongoing federal funding discussions after a contentious year in American higher education.
Further updates are expected once investigators analyze forensic evidence, review campus security footage, and gather additional witness information.
