In Atlanta, an investigation is underway following an attempt to burn down Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth home. The incident prompted a call to the police around 5:45 p.m., leading them to King’s birth home on Auburn Ave., near the King Center.
Upon arrival, it was discovered that two off-duty NYPD officers, visiting the center, had detained the suspect until local authorities arrived.
Two Utah tourists in the area are credited with saving Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth home from potential arson. Witnessing a woman dressed in black pouring gasoline on the windows and bushes, they intervened, preventing a destructive act on this significant part of American history.
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum commended their swift action. The police have since arrested a 26-year-old woman, charging her with attempted arson and attempted interference with government property.
Battalion Chief Jerry DeBerry of the Atlanta Fire Department emphasized the critical role played by witnesses in preventing a potential disaster. He stated that, had they not intervened, the house could have been engulfed in flames within seconds, risking significant damage or destruction.
Law enforcement authorities are collaborating with multiple district attorneys’ offices, along with the ATF and the FBI, in the investigation of the attempt to burn down Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth home.
Given that the home is federal property, the perpetrator may also face additional federal charges. The King Center has released the following statement:
“Tonight, an unfortunate incident occurred at the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as an individual attempted to set fire to this historic property. Fortunately, the attempt was unsuccessful, thanks to the brave intervention of good Samaritans and the quick response of law enforcement. We thank the Atlanta Police Department, Atlanta Fire Department, the National Parks Service, and Mayor Andre Dickens for leading the efforts to ensure the safety of our cherished national landmark and its adjacent neighbors. Our prayers are with the individual who allegedly committed this criminal act.”
In short: In a commendable turn of events, vigilant Utah tourists thwarted the potential arson attempt at Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth home in Atlanta. The swift intervention of these individuals prevented a significant disaster. The police have arrested the suspect, a 26-year-old woman, on charges of attempted arson and interference with government property. Authorities are collaborating on the investigation, considering federal charges given the property’s status. The King Center expressed gratitude for the brave intervention and swift law enforcement response, ensuring the safety of this cherished national landmark. Their thoughts are with the individual involved in this regrettable incident.
