( NYPost )
The suspect, 26, has been charged with criminal attempt arson and criminal attempt interference with government property.
Police have not released her name.
“That action saved an important part of American history tonight,” Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum told WSB-TV.
Atlanta Fire Department Battalion Chief Jerry DeBerry revealed the house could have burned down in moments if not for the witnesses stepping in to stop her.
“It could have been a matter of seconds before the house was engulfed in flames,” DeBerry told WSB-TV.
The Atlanta Police Department said it’s working with the District Attorney’s Office, the US Attorney’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI on investigating the attempted arson.
The home is in the care of the National Park Service, which acquired the property from the King family in 2018, and has been closed to tours since November due to ongoing renovations.
“Tonight, an unfortunate incident occurred at the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as an individual attempted to set fire to this historic property,” the King Center wrote in a statement Tuesday night.
“Fortunately, the attempt was unsuccessful, thanks to the brave intervention of good Samaritans and the quick response of law enforcement.”
The King Center thanked the quick response from the Atlanta police and fire departments before adding, “Our prayers are with the individual who allegedly committed this criminal act.”
The historic home was built in 1895 and has been a cherished landmark in the community and nation for recalling the life of the civil rights icon.
King was born at the home on Jan. 15, 1929, and lived there for his first 12 years, according to the National Park Service.
The home is about three miles east of Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta.
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