FBI Investigating After Shots Fired In Montco Democratic Offices

NORRISTOWN, PA — The FBI is joining local authorities in an investigation into the shots fired at the Montgomery County Democratic Committee offices in Norristown on Wednesday, some hours before Joe Biden was inaugurated as president.

A week ago, the Democratic Committee received an emailed death threat that "alluded to a stolen election," police said. It comes amid a series of online threats of violence to Pennsylvania and around the nation from extremist groups following the U.S. Capitol riots.

Original story: Gunshots Fired Into Montco Democratic Committee's Office

No one was inside the office at the time of the shooting, and no injuries were reported.

The incident occurred at 21 E. Airy St. between 6:30 p.m. Tuesday and 7:30 a.m. Wednesday. It was discovered by the committee's executive director, Brian Levy, when he was checking mail around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday.

"This really hit home because I’ve spent countless hours in this building," Montgomery County Commissioner Ken Lawrence said. "In non-pandemic times, it is filled with employees and volunteers. Violence is never the answer to settle any disagreement."

Montgomery County Congresswoman Madeleine Dean suggested that the ongoing rhetoric surrounding the election was responsible.

"We need to heal our nation, and as a person of faith I am hopeful that we will find unity," she said. "We must stop spreading dangerous lies that lead to violence. May peace and reconciliation be our motivation as we tackle the many challenges ahead."

Investigators are reviewing security footage from the area. Montgomery County detectives and Norristown police are working with the FBI.