Liputan6.com, Jakarta An intentional explosion rocked the Goldenson Building on the Harvard Medical School campus early Saturday morning, November 1, 2025, at approximately 2:48 a.m. EDT.
Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries from the incident, despite the potential for significant harm.
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Authorities, including the Boston Fire Department's Arson Unit, immediately conducted a preliminary assessment and concluded that the explosion was intentional.
One investigative source even stated that the explosive device used was "not a bomb" in the conventional sense.
The incident began when a fire alarm sounded in the Goldenson Building, prompting a Harvard University Police (HUPD) officer to respond.
The officer witnessed two individuals fleeing the scene but failed to identify or stop them.
Upon entering the building, clear evidence of an explosion was found on the fourth floor, confirming a serious incident.
Intensive Investigation
Following the Harvard Medical School explosion, a joint investigation was immediately launched by the HUPD, along with federal partners such as the FBI, as well as local and state law enforcement agencies.
The Boston Fire Department determined the explosion was intentional and conducted a sweep of the building which found no additional devices, according to the Crimson.
The Boston Police Department and the FBI declined to comment. Meanwhile, Harvard University Police Department could not be reached for comment.
Manhunt for Suspects
Detailed descriptions of the suspects have also been released to the public, as reported by New York Post.
One suspect was wearing a brown hooded sweatshirt with "NYC" emblazoned on the front, khaki pants, and gray Crocs.
The other suspect was seen wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and dark plaid pajama pants.
“The Harvard University Police Department is actively investigating this incident in coordination with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners,” university police said.
Anyone with information regarding the explosion or the suspects can contact the HUPD Detective Bureau at (617) 495-1796 to assist in the investigation.
Impact of the Incident
Although the explosion at Harvard Medical School was intentional, there were no reports of injuries, which is encouraging amidst the alarming incident.
The disturbing incident follows a tense year for Harvard students, faculty, and staff, which has been in the national spotlight amid the White House's efforts to overhaul higher education.
Harvard and White House officials have been in discussions for months on a high-stakes deal to return all federal funding to the university and end ongoing lawsuits against the administration.
In September, a federal judge blocked the government's attempt to freeze more than $2 billion in Harvard research grants, declaring the action illegal.