Gasoline Maniac Targets Police Chief’s Cruiser

A single vigilant lieutenant’s glance through a window stopped Franklin Cederholm from igniting two gallons of gasoline on Abington Police Chief John Bonney’s cruiser, averting a fire that could have engulfed the entire police station.

Story Snapshot

Franklin Cederholm, 39, arrested January 16, 2026, after pouring gasoline on the chief’s cruiser outside Abington Police Station.
Lieutenant spotted the act at 9:00 AM, intervened immediately, preventing ignition near the station building.
Cederholm possessed two gallons of gasoline and a lighter; surveillance video captured the attempt.
Charged with attempted arson, malicious damage, trespassing; sent for mental health evaluation.
Chief Bonney warned ignition would have caused catastrophic fire to the station.

Incident Unfolds at Abington Police Station

Franklin Cederholm approached the marked cruiser of Abington Police Chief John Bonney parked at 215 Central Street. He carried two gallons of gasoline and a lighter. At 9:00 AM on January 16, 2026, Cederholm began pouring gasoline over the vehicle positioned directly against the police station building. Surveillance cameras recorded every moment. The cruiser’s proximity to the structure heightened the risk exponentially.

A lieutenant inside the station glanced out his office window and saw Cederholm in the act. The officer rushed outside, halted the pouring, and secured the suspect. A second officer arrived, confirmed gasoline involvement, and summoned backup. Cederholm surrendered without resistance. Officers arrested him on site.

Swift Police Response Prevents Disaster

Abington Police Department officers acted decisively. The lieutenant’s immediate intervention stopped Cederholm before he struck the lighter. Backup secured the scene. Fire Department personnel arrived to clean gasoline residue from the cruiser. Chief Bonney commended his team’s quick actions, crediting their vigilance for averting tragedy. Such responsiveness underscores effective training and situational awareness in law enforcement.

Chief Bonney assessed the threat directly: the cruiser sat right against the building, so ignition would have spread flames rapidly, consuming the entire station. This near-miss exposed vulnerabilities in parking arrangements at public safety facilities. Yet, it also highlighted strengths in personnel readiness. Common sense demands reviewing such protocols to protect first responders.

Suspect Profile and Charges Filed

Franklin Cederholm, 39, resides in Abington, Massachusetts, 21 miles south of Boston. Police knew him vaguely but not as a frequent presence. He faces charges of attempted arson, malicious damage to a motor vehicle, and trespassing. Investigators may add charges as evidence mounts. Motive remains unclear pending full inquiry.

Post-arrest, authorities transported Cederholm to Bridgewater State Hospital for mental health evaluation. This step aligns with protocols for potential crises, prioritizing public safety. Conservative values emphasize accountability alongside compassion when mental health factors emerge, but facts must guide outcomes. Arraignment awaits in Brockton District Court.

Broader Implications for Public Safety

The incident spotlights risks at police stations in residential areas. A fueled vehicle ablaze next to a building endangers officers, staff, and neighbors. Chief Bonney’s warning resonates: unchecked, this becomes catastrophic. Departments nationwide should audit parking and surveillance to bolster defenses against bold threats.

Quick detection via window view and cameras proved pivotal. This case reinforces law enforcement’s role as society’s shield. When officers spot danger and act, they safeguard communities. Mental health evaluations post-arrest reflect balanced justice—address root causes without excusing crimes. Facts support praising heroism here over speculation.