Authorities are investigating after an unknown explosive device was reportedly thrown from a vehicle near a polling location in Lehigh County on Tuesday morning, as voters cast ballots in Pennsylvania’s primary election. The incident occurred near Salem United Church of Christ in Catasauqua, which was serving as a polling site. Pennsylvania State Police said there was “some sort of explosion” near a vehicle in the area shortly after polls opened.
Trooper Nathan Banosky confirmed that officers were responding to an “unknown explosive device” incident. No injuries were reported, and officials stated there is “no threat to the public.”
Investigation Underway
Emergency crews, including police, firefighters, and canine units, responded to the 600 block of 3rd Street around 9:12 a.m. local time. Police tape was placed around the area, and officers were later seen entering a nearby home as part of the investigation.
Roads in the vicinity were temporarily shut down. Voters assigned to the church polling site were directed to enter through 4th Street.Authorities have not identified any suspects or released details about the exact nature of the device. The investigation remains active, and search warrants are being sought.
Election Context
The incident took place on a busy primary election day in Pennsylvania. Key races include several competitive congressional districts that could influence control of the U.S. House in November’s midterms. Several Republican incumbents ran unopposed, while Governor Josh Shapiro is seeking re-election without a Democratic primary challenger.No connection has been established between the explosion and the election itself.