A man with a documented history of arson has been arrested in Oklahoma City after allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at a person in a wheelchair. The incident occurred on July 2, near the Oklahoma City Police Department Headquarters.
Surveillance footage captured the moment Alexander Emery, 38, approached a person in a wheelchair who was crossing an intersection. According to police, Emery lit a Molotov cocktail and threw it at the victim, igniting the wheelchair and the ground. The victim, who was reportedly backing away, was then pushed by Emery, causing the wheelchair to tip and the person to fall into the flames.
Detectives in an unmarked car happened to be passing by the scene and witnessed the attack. They immediately intervened, detaining Emery as he attempted to flee and helping a bystander pull the victim from the fire. The Oklahoma City Fire Department responded to provide medical assistance. The victim sustained minor injuries and is expected to recover fully.
Emery, who has a face tattoo and a criminal record dating back to 2011, faces multiple felony charges including first-degree arson, assault and battery with a deadly weapon, and assault with intent to kill. He was booked into the Oklahoma County Detention Center with a $200,000 bond. Emery reportedly told police he selected the victim at random.
Authorities commended the swift actions of the detectives and the bystander, stating that their quick response ensured the victim's safety and the suspect's apprehension. Emery was most recently released from prison in March 2024 after serving time for motor vehicle larceny and previously served nearly two years for a first-degree arson conviction in March 2022.