After attempting to set fire to Martin Luther King Jr.'s childhood home last week, Georgia native Laneisha Shantrice Henderson was charged with second-degree arson.
The 26-year-old, who reportedly attended Eufaula High School and lived in Tallahassee, Florida, enlisted in the Navy.
Henderson reportedly received medals for exemplary behavior during his four years of service in the US Navy. Her father said that she was suffering from mental health problems when she attempted to set fire to the historic MLK building. Luckily, two NYPD cops who were not on duty and had been to the center stopped Henderson. They held her until the cops from Atlanta could come.
Charges of criminal attempt arson and criminal attempt interference with government property were brought against Henderson after his detention.
In the video above, she can be seen getting arrested by police after spilling gasoline on the bushes and porch of the residence.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Center released a statement saying, "Tonight, an unfortunate incident occurred at the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as an individual attempted to set fire to the historic property." "Thankfully, the attempt was thwarted by the courageous bystanders and the prompt action of law enforcement."
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum reportedly stated that the prompt action of law officials "saved an important part of American history tonight," according to Sportskeeda.
The residence, which dates back to 1895, is situated along Auburn Avenue just a few blocks from the King Center, King National Historical Park, and the venerable Ebenezer Baptist Church, as EUR previously reported. After completing renovations, the site will remain closed until 2025.
Atlanta Fire Department Battalion Chief Jerry DeBerry stated, "It could have been a matter of seconds before the house was engulfed in flames," according to WSB-TV.