EXCLUSIVE: New surveillance video shows what police say is a Molotov cocktail attack on Michigan GOP office

Newly released footage captures attempted firebombing at GOP office in Iron Mountain; suspect admits to making devices to "send a message"

DICKINSON COUNTY, Mich. (July 14, 2025) — Newly released surveillance video shows what appears to be the moment a Molotov cocktail was thrown at the Dickinson County Republican Committee headquarters. The footage offers more detail on a weekend attack that led to the arrest of a 19-year-old Iron Mountain man.

The video appears to show a suspect attempting to light a rag sticking out of a glass bottle before throwing it at the building on Stephenson Avenue. Police say the rag failed to ignite, but the bottle shattered upon impact. A second unlit bottle was later found in the parking lot with liquid inside and a rag sticking out of it.

According to a press release from the Iron Mountain Police Department, the incident happened around 3:55 p.m. on Saturday. No injuries were reported, and damage to the building, which houses several businesses including the county GOP office, was minimal.

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Police arrested Zayn Edward Arcand at his home and said he admitted to making the incendiary devices in his driveway. Arcand reportedly told investigators he threw the bottles to send a "message against corruption." Authorities said his attempt was unsuccessful due to “incompetence.”

Arcand has been charged with arson and the manufacturing and possession of a Molotov cocktail. His bond was set at $15,000 with a 10 percent cash surety. He is currently being arraigned.

The Dickinson County Republican Committee issued a statement thanking police for their swift response and called for Arcand to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

“We are grateful to God that no one was injured and continue to pray for all involved,” the committee said.

The incident remains under investigation.