Laneisha Shantrice Henderson, a 26-year-old Atlanta woman, was arrested after she attempted to burn down the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King.
Two tourists from Utah who were in the area, witnessed Henderson pouring gasoline on the home and interrupted her.
Video captured Laneisha Shantrice Henderson wearing all black and pouring gasoline on the front windows of the home and in the bushes.
Police were called and arrived at the home on Auburn Avenue near the King Center after 5:45 p.m. to find the suspect detained by two off-duty NYPD officers who had been visiting the King Center.
Laneisha Shantrice Henderson was arrested and charged with criminal attempt arson and criminal attempt interference with government property.
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum said the actions of the tourists “saved an important part of American history tonight.”
Atlanta Fire Department Battalion Chief Jerry DeBerry said had the witnesses not intervened, the house could have been burned to the ground in moments.
“It could have been a matter of seconds before the house was engulfed in flames,” DeBerry said.
Video of the incident can be viewed here.
Watch the official news report below.
I would be remiss if I didn’t say that I appreciate how kind everyone was to Laneisha Shantrice Henderson and how they showed empathy and concern for her – even the police officers.
I pray she gets the help that she needs.
