ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Republican Party of New Mexico’s Albuquerque headquarters was targeted in a suspected arson early Sunday morning, with the building’s entryway destroyed and political graffiti left at the scene, according to party officials.
Authorities confirmed that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), along with local and federal investigators, are working to determine who set fire to the entrance of the party’s office and spray-painted the message “ICE=KKK” nearby.
No injuries were reported in the incident, which occurred in the early morning hours and caused significant damage to the facility’s front entrance. Law enforcement has not released any information about suspects or arrests.
Party leaders called the attack a deliberate act of political violence, stating it represents a larger trend of targeting political groups through intimidation and destruction.
“We are deeply relieved that no one was harmed in what could have been a tragic and deadly attack,” said Amy Barela, Chairwoman of the Republican Party of New Mexico.
The Republican Party said it is cooperating with investigators and plans to provide all available evidence to ensure that those responsible are prosecuted.
The graffiti reference to “ICE=KKK” appeared to be a political statement equating U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement with hate groups. Officials have not confirmed whether the message is directly tied to the fire.
Key Points
- A fire damaged the Republican Party of New Mexico’s Albuquerque office in a suspected arson.
- Graffiti reading “ICE=KKK” was found at the scene, and no injuries were reported.
- Federal and local authorities, including ATF, are investigating the politically charged incident.