Two Massachusetts men face federal charges after allegedly detonating a firework inside a Harvard Medical School research building during the early morning hours, causing an explosion that could have resulted in serious casualties.

The suspects, who are not affiliated with the university, were apprehended following tips from members of the public who recognized them from surveillance footage. Logan David Patterson, 18, and Dominick Frank Cardoza, 20, were taken into custody early Tuesday and each charged with one count of conspiracy to damage by means of an explosive, according to ABC News.

No one was injured in the explosion, which occurred on the fourth floor of the Goldenson Building just before 3 a.m. The explosive device, believed to be a Roman candle firework, detonated inside a wooden research laboratory locker in the neurobiology department. Federal investigators emphasized the serious nature of the incident, rejecting any characterization of the act as a harmless prank.

Federal Charges Filed Against Suspects

Patterson and Cardoza face serious federal charges for allegedly conspiring to damage property using an explosive device. FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Ted Docks stated the pair committed an "extremely dangerous act" that warranted criminal prosecution.

"This is not some harmless college prank. It's a federal crime," Docks said during a press briefing. He emphasized that casualties could have occurred if people had been present in the building at the time of the explosion.

U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Leah Belaire Foley confirmed that neither suspect attends Harvard University. Prosecutors said Patterson and Cardoza were apparently visiting the nearby Wentworth Institute of Technology for Halloween parties when the incident occurred.

Surveillance Footage Captures Alleged Crime

Early Saturday morning, surveillance cameras captured two suspects wearing face coverings walking near the medical school campus. The footage allegedly shows them lighting what appeared to be Roman candle fireworks before accessing the building.

The suspects allegedly climbed scaffolding to reach the building's roof, gaining unauthorized entry to the facility. Shortly after their entry, campus police responded to a fire alarm triggered by the explosion on the fourth floor.

Security video later showed the two suspects leaving the building and fleeing the area following the detonation. The surveillance footage proved crucial in identifying and apprehending the suspects within days of the incident.

Evidence Recovery Aids Investigation

FBI investigators recovered video allegedly showing Cardoza attempting to dispose of evidence after fleeing the scene. The footage reportedly captured him removing his pants and throwing them in a garbage can.

Investigators later retrieved the discarded pants, adding to the physical evidence against the suspects. The recovery of this evidence demonstrated the thoroughness of the federal investigation into the explosion.

Members of the public played a crucial role in the case by contacting authorities when they recognized the suspects from released images. Docks noted that "these two men allegedly boasted about what they did to their friends," which may have contributed to their identification.

Lessons to Learn

While this incident may appear as a one-off act of recklessness, it offers serious takeaways for public safety and awareness:

1. Be vigilant about campus safety. If you live or work near a research institution or school, remain aware of suspicious activity—especially during times when unauthorized access may be easier, such as Halloween or school breaks.

2. Familiarize yourself with emergency protocols. Knowing how to respond to a fire alarm, understanding building access restrictions, and reporting unusual behavior promptly can prevent greater harm.

3. Recognize that irresponsible behavior can have serious consequences. Explosives, even small consumer fireworks, pose legitimate risks in tightly controlled environments like laboratories. This case shows that ill-conceived pranks or stunts can lead not just to arrests but to federal charges—even when no one is physically hurt.

Despite every precaution, crimes and emergencies may still occur. It’s important to remember that the community’s role is to support safety, not to place blame on institutions or individuals who fall victim to reckless acts.

Why This Story Matters

This case highlights how even minor-seeming acts—like setting off a firework—can escalate into incidents of national concern when carried out irresponsibly. At a time when public institutions prioritize safety and security, breaches of trust and access emphasize the need for both vigilance and accountability. It also demonstrates the power of community involvement; tips from the public played a key role in swiftly identifying the suspects and averting further risk. Holding individuals responsible for dangerous decisions can only happen when citizens stay alert and engaged.

Conclusion

Logan David Patterson and Dominick Frank Cardoza have been charged with conspiracy to use an explosive device following an incident in which a Roman candle firework was detonated inside Harvard Medical School’s Goldenson Building. The event triggered alarms, prompted an FBI investigation, and revealed security risks related to unauthorized access. Video footage, public tips, and forensic evidence helped law enforcement identify and apprehend the suspects, who were neither Harvard students nor directly affiliated with the university. Authorities assured the public that although the act was considered extremely dangerous, there is currently no continuing threat.