A man with a lengthy criminal record, including a previous arson conviction, has been arrested in Oklahoma City after allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at an individual in a wheelchair. The incident occurred around 8 a.m. on July 2, directly across the street from the Oklahoma City Police Department Headquarters.
Surveillance footage shows 38-year-old Alexander Emery walking past the victim before stopping, lighting the incendiary device, and throwing it. The Molotov cocktail struck the wheelchair, igniting it and the ground. The victim began to move away but was then pushed by Emery, causing the wheelchair to tip and the individual to fall into the flames.
Detectives in an unmarked car, who were passing by due to the location's proximity to the police station, witnessed the attack. They immediately intervened, drawing their weapons and apprehending Emery, who surrendered at the scene. Simultaneously, another detective and a bystander rushed to pull the victim from the fire.
The Oklahoma City Fire Department provided medical assistance to the victim, who sustained minor injuries and is expected to fully recover.
Emery has been charged with several felonies, including first-degree arson, assault and battery with a deadly weapon, injuring another person by use of an explosive, manufacturing an explosive device, and assault with intent to kill. He is currently being held on a $200,000 bond.
Authorities stated that Emery told police he randomly selected the victim. His criminal history dates back to 2011, with convictions for motor vehicle larceny, first-degree arson, possession of a controlled substance, carrying a weapon, and leaving the scene of an accident involving injury. He was most recently released from prison in March 2024.
Police commended the swift actions of the detectives and the bystander, emphasizing the rapid response that led to the suspect's arrest and the victim's rescue.