Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — A 38-year-old man is facing multiple felony charges after police say he carried out a random and violent attack on a stranger in a wheelchair, allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at the victim before attempting to push him back into the flames.
The incident unfolded on July 2 near the intersection of West Main Street and North Lee Avenue, directly across from the Oklahoma City Police Department headquarters.
Authorities arrested Alexander Emery, 38, at the scene following the attack.
Police Say Victim Was Randomly Targeted
According to investigators, the victim was crossing the street in his wheelchair when Emery allegedly threw a homemade incendiary device in his direction.
Police said the Molotov cocktail exploded on impact, causing flames to erupt around the wheelchair user.
As the victim attempted to move away from the burning area, authorities allege Emery rushed toward him and tried to force him back into the fire.
Video released by police reportedly shows the victim tipping backward from his wheelchair during the struggle and falling into the burning area.
Investigators later said Emery admitted he selected the victim at random before carrying out the attack.
Detectives and Bystander Rushed Into Flames
The terrifying attack was brought to an end within moments thanks to the rapid response of nearby officers and a civilian.
According to the Oklahoma City Police Department, detectives responded immediately from the nearby headquarters after witnessing the incident unfold.
One police officer and a bystander ran directly into the fire to pull the victim to safety, while another detective confronted the suspect at gunpoint and took him into custody.
Emergency crews from the Oklahoma City Fire Department and the Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) treated the victim at the scene before he received additional medical care.
Police said the victim is expected to recover from his injuries.
Suspect Faces Multiple Felony Charges
Following the arrest, Emery was booked into the Oklahoma County Detention Center.
He has been charged with assault with intent to kill, first-degree arson, assault and battery with a deadly weapon, injuring another person through the use of an explosive device, manufacturing an explosive device, and possessing or using an incendiary device, according to court records.
Authorities said Emery is currently being held on a $200,000 bond.
As of the latest information available, it was not immediately clear when he is scheduled to make his first court appearance.
Police Praise Heroic Rescue Effort
Following the incident, the Oklahoma City Police Department praised the officers, firefighters and civilian who acted quickly to prevent an even greater tragedy.
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“What happened next showed the absolute best of our community and our first responders,” the department wrote. “Thanks to this rapid, heroic response, the victim is expected to recover, and the suspect is behind bars.”
The investigation into the attack remains ongoing as prosecutors move forward with the criminal case.
Authorities have not released additional information regarding a possible motive beyond investigators’ statement that the victim was allegedly chosen at random.
What are your thoughts on this shocking incident? Do you think stronger measures are needed to address random acts of violence in public places? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.