An explosive device was detonated in front of Chicago Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez’s Pilsen home early Saturday, shattering one of his windows in what he called an ‘act of political violence.’ The incident occurred around 12:45 a.m. near the intersection of 21st Street and Damen Avenue.

A man hopped out of a black SUV and ignited a device in front of the alderman’s home, which exploded after sparkling for several seconds, leaving a large smoke cloud in its aftermath, according to surveillance video posted to the ward’s Facebook page.

Investigation Underway

Sigcho-Lopez called the device a ‘bomb,’ though a police spokesperson characterized it as a ‘suspected firework.’ The Pilsen alderman disagreed with that assessment and said he has contacted a lawyer to ensure the incident is properly investigated.

‘There are no fireworks that shatter big, reinforced windows like the one on the first floor,’ Sigcho-Lopez said. ‘One detective I spoke with said that it could’ve been dynamite … I am demanding that the police department conclude their investigation before speculating what the device could’ve been.’

A police spokesperson confirmed a window was damaged, and no one was hurt in the incident. Detectives are investigating the incident, which Sigcho-Lopez believes may have been politically motivated due to his progressive stance and recent threats he received.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.