A 38-year-old Oklahoma man faces multiple felony charges after allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at a stranger in a wheelchair on July 2 in Oklahoma City. Authorities say the attack occurred near police headquarters and involved an attempt to push the victim back into the flames. The victim is expected to recover.
Alexander Emery was arrested at the scene near West Main Street and North Lee Avenue. Police charged him with assault with intent to kill, first-degree arson, assault and battery with a deadly weapon, and additional counts involving explosives and incendiary devices. Court records show he is being held on $200,000 bond.
Investigators reported that Emery admitted selecting the victim at random. Footage from the incident showed the Molotov cocktail igniting around the man in the wheelchair, followed by a struggle in which the victim tipped over. Officers and a bystander pulled the victim to safety while detectives took Emery into custody.
The Oklahoma City Police Department credited the rapid response by first responders and a civilian for preventing a fatality. The victim received treatment at the scene from the Oklahoma City Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services Authority.