Authorities Investigate Bomb Threat at Illinois Home of Pope Leo XIV's Brother

Police responded Wednesday evening to a bomb threat at a private residence in New Lenox, Illinois, owned by John Prevost, the older brother of Pope Leo XIV. After a thorough search involving explosives detection dogs and investigators from the Will County Sheriff's Office, authorities determined the threat was unsubstantiated, finding no explosive devices or hazardous materials. No injuries were reported, and the investigation into the threat's origin remains ongoing.

The Details

The New Lenox Police Department arrived at the Sojourn Road residence at 6:29 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, following the bomb threat report. Officers immediately established a secure perimeter and instructed surrounding residents to evacuate as a precaution. The Will County Sheriff's Office explosive detection K9 unit was dispatched to assist in the search effort.

After conducting a comprehensive sweep of the residence and surrounding property, investigators concluded the threat posed no actual danger. Residents were cleared to return to their homes once the scene had been fully assessed and cleared by authorities.

Police have not publicly identified the source of the threat or disclosed details about how the report was received. The New Lenox Police Department is continuing its investigation and urged anyone with information to contact them at 815-485-2500.

John Prevost, a retired Catholic school principal, became the subject of national attention following his younger brother's election to the papacy in May 2025. Prevost is the older of Pope Leo XIV's two brothers. In interviews, he has described their relationship, including a daily Wordle competition they play together each morning.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, made history as the first American pontiff when he was elected on May 8, 2025. His brothers have lived quiet lives outside the public eye until the pontificate brought increased scrutiny to the papal family.

The incident represents a serious security concern for a high-profile family member with direct ties to the Vatican. Law enforcement response protocols for threats targeting relatives of world leaders typically involve multiple agencies and heightened precautions.

Context

The bomb threat occurred amid an escalating public dispute between Pope Leo XIV and President Donald Trump over foreign policy and governance issues. Trump has publicly criticized the pope's stance on military intervention in Iran and the pontiff's positions on immigration and border security. In recent days, Trump posted on Truth Social praising Pope Leo's other brother, Louis Prevost, a Florida resident and vocal MAGA supporter, writing "Louis is all MAGA. He gets it, and Leo doesn't!"

The timing of the threat—coming just days after Trump's public attacks on the pontiff—has drawn attention from observers tracking the evolving tensions between the Vatican and the U.S. administration. The pope and president have found themselves at odds over several policy matters, with Pope Leo using his platform to advocate positions contrary to the Trump administration's stated goals.

Pope Leo XIV's papacy has been marked by efforts to rebuild the Church's moral authority after years of institutional crisis. His role as the first American pope has made him a significant figure in both global religious affairs and American political discourse. The incident underscores the security challenges faced by relatives of high-profile international figures.

What's Next

The New Lenox Police Department's investigation will focus on determining the source and motive behind the threat. Investigators will likely examine phone records, surveillance footage, and other digital evidence to identify the caller. Law enforcement may also coordinate with Secret Service or Vatican security officials, depending on the threat's nature and origins.

The incident may prompt discussions about security measures for papal family members residing outside Vatican grounds. Given the public dispute between Pope Leo and Trump, security agencies may assess whether the threat represents an isolated incident or part of a broader pattern. The outcome of the police investigation could have implications for how U.S. authorities protect relatives of the pontiff.

Meanwhile, tensions between the Vatican and the Trump administration appear likely to continue. Pope Leo's advocacy positions conflict with multiple Trump policies, suggesting further public disagreement between the two figures.