A woman was arrested in Atlanta after authorities say she was caught attempting to pour gasoline on the birth home of Martin Luther King Jr.
The incident happened around 5:45 p.m. Thursday, according to Atlanta police, who said in a release they responded to a report of vandalism in progress at King’s birth home, near the King Center. Police say a 26-year-old female suspect was detained after she was stopped by multiple citizens.
Channel 2 in Atlanta reported the woman was initially detained by two off-duty NYPD officers visiting the center until local police could arrive. Police told Channel 2 she was spotted pouring gasoline on the home by two tourists from Utah, who interrupted her.
The woman, whose name has not been released, was arrested and charged with second degree criminal attempted arson and interference with government property.
The investigation is ongoing, police said in a release.
In a statement posted on social media, the King Center said the attempt to burn down King’s birth home was unsuccessful, thanks to the “brave intervention of good Samaritans and the quick response of law enforcement.”
“Our prayers are with the individual who allegedly committed this criminal act,” the King Center added.
