Attempt to Burn Down Martin Luther King Jr.’s Childhood Home Thwarted by Bystanders
On December 7, 2023, a 26-year-old woman was arrested in Atlanta, Georgia, for attempting to burn down the childhood home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The incident occurred at the historic site on Auburn Avenue, a significant location in American history and a symbol of the civil rights movement.
The woman was spotted pouring gasoline on the house in the evening. Her actions were quickly interrupted by two tourists from Utah who were visiting the area. They noticed the woman’s suspicious activity and intervened to prevent her from igniting the fire. The situation escalated when the woman grabbed a lighter, but one of the tourists physically blocked her, preventing her from returning to the porch to start the fire.
Shortly after this intervention, two off-duty New York Police Department officers, also visiting the site, apprehended the woman. They detained her until officers from the Atlanta Police Department arrived at the scene. The Atlanta Police Chief, Darin Schierbaum, acknowledged the crucial role of these bystanders, stating that their actions “saved an important part of American history tonight.”
The Atlanta Fire Department, led by Battalion Chief Jerry DeBerry, arrived to clean up the gasoline and confirmed that no damage was done to the property. The swift response and intervention of these witnesses were pivotal in averting a potential disaster.
The suspect was charged with attempted arson and interference with government property. Given the federal status of the property, additional federal charges might be considered. The King Center released a statement expressing gratitude for the quick response of law enforcement and the community in preserving this important landmark.
This incident highlights the ongoing significance of Dr. King’s legacy and the community’s role in protecting historical landmarks. It also underscores the importance of vigilance and community action in preventing harm to such significant sites.
