Protester lights self on fire outside Israeli consulate in Atlanta

2024-12-24 11:16:55 source: category:Contact-us

A person was in critical condition Friday after lighting themself on fire in an apparent protest outside an office building that houses the Israeli consulate in Atlanta, authorities said.

The protester was being treated for third-degree burns across their body, Atlanta Fire Chief Roderick Smith said at a news briefing Friday afternoon, and a security guard who tried to stop the person suffered burns to his wrist and leg. 

Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum said a Palestinian flag was found at the scene. He added there was no indication the incident was linked to terrorism.

“We believe this building remains safe, and we do not see any threat here,” Schierbaum said. “We believe it was an act of extreme political protest that occurred.”

The person arrived outside the building Friday afternoon and used gasoline as an accelerant, Smith said. Authorities did not release the protester’s name, age or gender.

Schierbaum said police are aware of heightened tensions in the Jewish and Muslim communities and have stepped up patrols at certain locations, including the consulate.

Demonstrations have been widespread amid rising tensions in the U.S. as the death toll rises in the Israel-Hamas war. A weeklong cease-fire gave way Friday morning to resumed fighting.

Contributing: Associated Press

More:Contact-us

Recommend

NFL overreactions: New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys going nowhere after Week 10

It’s incredible how the narrative turns so quickly for NFL teams after a victory, compared to anothe

Richard Simmons diagnosed with skin cancer, underwent treatment

Richard Simmons is revealing he was treated for skin cancer.The fitness coach, 75, in a two-part Fac

A New York man’s pet alligator was seized after 30 years. Now, he wants Albert back

HAMBURG, N.Y. (AP) — The owner of an alligator recently seized by conservation officers in New York