A woman was arrested In Atlanta on Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023, after she was caught allegedly pouring gasoline on the birth home of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
Laneisha Shantrice Henderson, 26, who was recorded on cell phone video dousing the porch with what witnesses say smelled like gasoline, was stopped by passersby, who alerted Atlanta police.
Henderson is reportedly a former Sailor with the U.S. Navy. Her father told local media that Henderson had been missing for a couple days and was likely going through a mental health episode.
Watch the events online on video:
Chief Darin Schierbaum told reporters that the criminal act was witnessed by two tourists from Utah, who intervened when they saw her try to ignite the liquid.
According to media reports, two off-duty NYPD officers who happened to be visiting the area detained the woman until local APD officers came.
Local law enforcement officials have reached out to the woman’s family to determine her mental health.
Nonetheless, she has been charged with criminal attempt to commit arson and criminal attempt to damage government property. She could also face federal charges.
The King Center said in a statement, “Fortunately, the attempt 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.”
Final Word
The MLK birth home is undergoing renovations as of Thanksgiving weekend.
Some of the work that needs to be done on the home includes interior wall replacement, adding a crawlspace, exterior painting, driveway, window and door repairs and more.
The NPS bought the King home in December 2018 and has been charged with its upkeep ever since.
