Federal charges have been filed against a 35-year-old man for allegedly setting fire to the door of Sen. Bernie Sanders' office in Burlington, Vermont, while staff members were working inside, authorities said. The suspect, identified as Shant Soghomonian, formerly of Northridge, California, was arrested after surveillance footage showed him spraying a liquid on the outer door of Sanders' office and igniting it with a lighter.

The incident occurred on Friday morning around 10:45 a.m. outside Sanders' third-floor Church Street office in downtown Burlington. Thankfully, the senator was not present at the time. However, the fire impeded the egress of staff members, endangering their lives. The Burlington Fire Department quickly responded to the scene and extinguished the flames, but significant damage was caused both by the fire and the water from the sprinkler systems.

Surveillance video clearly captured the suspect entering the building and proceeding to the third floor where the office is located. According to U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest, Soghomonian can be seen spraying a liquid near the office door and then igniting it with a handheld lighter. He quickly left the premises through a staircase.

Authorities apprehended Soghomonian after releasing surveillance photos to the public and seeking their help in identifying the suspect. The motive behind the incident is currently under investigation.

Soghomonian, also known as Michael Soghomonian, has been charged with using fire to damage a building used in interstate commerce and as a place of activity affecting interstate commerce, according to a federal complaint. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000.

As of now, it remains unclear whether Soghomonian has retained legal representation. He is awaiting his first court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle.

In response to the incident, Sen. Bernie Sanders expressed his gratitude for the swift and professional response of local, state, and federal law enforcement, as well as the outpouring of support. While the fire caused damage to his office and the building, Sanders is grateful that no one was injured and is determined to continue serving Vermonters during these challenging times.