Boston Satanic Temple is firebombed with explosives in 'horrific act of attempted terrorism'

Local and federal investigators are looking into a possible bombing at a Satanic Temple in the Massachusetts town of Salem

Local and federal investigators are probing a potential bombing incident at a Satanic Temple located in Salem, Massachusetts.

Authorities stated that an unidentified individual threw an explosive onto the building's porch around 4:15 am on Monday. The damage went unnoticed for nearly 12 hours as the building was unoccupied during the incident.

Lucien Greaves, the temple's co-founder and spokesperson, condemned the act as an act of terror, emphasizing the potential danger posed. "It can't be overstated that this was definitely a horrific act of attempted terrorism, and people could be hurt," he stated, expressing confidence in the authorities' ability to apprehend the perpetrator.

In an interview with the Boston Globe, Greaves mentioned giving a tour of the building to a couple shortly before the explosive was discovered. "We came in through the back and did the whole tour, and all the while, on the front deck, I guess, was this bomb," he recounted.

Bomb technicians and K9 units thoroughly swept the premises to ensure no further explosives were present, and the authorities concluded the investigation by 7:15 pm, confirming that the threat had been neutralized.

The Satanic Temple has faced multiple threats in recent years, including a planned attack by a Michigan man in January and an alleged arson incident in 2022.

Lucien Greaves, the co-founder and spokesperson for the temple, claims that this was an act of terror

Established in 2016, the temple advocates for social causes and opposes perceived religious intrusions in politics. Its mission focuses on promoting benevolence, rejecting tyranny, advocating for justice, and undertaking noble pursuits.

Despite its name, the Satanic Temple is not affiliated with the 1960s Church of Satan founded by Anton LaVey. It emphasizes rebellion against tyranny and displays an LGBTQ+ pride flag at its headquarters, located less than a mile from the historic Gallows Hill.

The temple's tax-exempt status, obtained in 2019, allows it to apply for federal grants and receive tax-deductible donations, aligning it with recognized religious organizations.