US teenager sets fire to congressman's office over TikTok ban

A 19-year-old man has been arrested for setting fire to the office of Congressman Glenn Grothman, a former supporter of a TikTok ban in the US.

The incident occurred in the early morning of Sunday, January 19, in the city of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, USA. The fire burned down the entrance and some equipment in the office. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.

US teenager sets fire to congressman's office over TikTok ban Picture 1

19-year-old sets fire to congressman's office because TikTok is banned.

Police later arrested the suspect, who admitted to starting the fire. The teenager is believed to have been angry over the TikTok ban, which was passed with the support of Congressman Grothman.

The incident occurred just hours after TikTok was temporarily suspended in the US due to the ban. However, the app was later restored thanks to an executive order delaying the ban, allowing TikTok more time to negotiate with the US government.

The young man's thoughtless actions have caused a lot of controversy. Many people condemn the violence, but there are also opinions that this is a manifestation of anxiety and dissatisfaction of a part of the youth at the risk of losing their favorite application.

The incident once again shows the huge influence TikTok has on American youth and the controversy surrounding the ban of this application.

Kareem Winters

Update 10 February 2025