Incident in Oklahoma City
The Oklahoma City Police Department recently shared video footage of a distressing event that took place around 8 a.m. on July 2. In the video, a suspect is seen launching a Molotov cocktail at a victim who was in a wheelchair. This alarming incident reportedly occurred right across from the police headquarters.
Police remarked, “What transpired next highlighted the commendable spirit of our community and first responders.”
“These are individuals. They are our neighbors, fellow Oklahomans, with hopes and dreams just like everyone else,” they added.
Investigators from the police department, along with bystanders who quickly recognized the urgency of the situation, intervened promptly. They aided the victim and apprehended the suspect at the scene. Fire department personnel also arrived swiftly to administer necessary medical care.
Thanks to their rapid and courageous actions, the victim is expected to heal, while the suspect is now in custody, police stated.
According to reports, a city police officer provided a court affidavit indicating that the attacker was headed west on Main Street when he spotted the victim crossing. The assailant reversed direction, approached him, ignited a Molotov cocktail, and threw it directly at the wheelchair user, igniting him in flames.
Footage captured the victim desperately pulling himself from the flames, while the suspect was seen attempting to force him back toward the fire.
Two detectives from the Oklahoma City police stopped the 38-year-old suspect shortly after. The victim received treatment for minor burns on his neck and arms, as reported by court documents.
In a court affidavit, the suspect claimed he was “looking for trails” and believed the victim was a child molester, stating he was motivated to kill him. He also mentioned having prepared two Molotov cocktails but was stopped after using just one.
Following the attack, the suspect was charged with first-degree arson, assault with a deadly weapon, intent to kill, and multiple counts related to the use of incendiary devices, and was booked into the Oklahoma County Jail.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Alexander Emery, who has a criminal history stretching over the last decade, involving trespassing, robbery, drug-related offenses, and assault.
Emery’s bail is set at $200,000, according to jail records.
A local news outlet discovered that the victim, who had been homeless, was located near the scene but chose not to appear on camera. He expressed gratitude, mentioning that he felt supported by God during the terrifying ordeal.
He also shared that while he was treated on-site, he declined hospitalization and stated he had no prior knowledge of the attacker or the motive behind the assault.
Meghan Mueller, CEO of the Homeless Alliance, remarked that the incident was “absolutely horrifying.” She emphasized that such occurrences should deeply concern the community, as these are people, neighbors striving for better lives.
Mueller urged, “It’s crucial to remember that we all must take better care of one another.”
