A Detroit man has been charged with multiple counts, including assault with intent to murder, after allegedly trying to set two former co-workers on fire, according to Wayne County prosecutors.
Incident After Job Termination
The man had been fired from a printing equipment company for leaving threatening notes for two female co-workers, according to Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy and Assistant Prosecutor Lisa Coyle. On Monday, he returned to the company, located in Detroit, and found the two women sitting inside a car. He reportedly doused the vehicle with gasoline and set it on fire.
Both women suffered severe burns in the attack and were rushed to the hospital, where they remained in serious condition as of Tuesday.
Witnesses and Arrest
A witness to the attack reportedly chased the suspect and managed to detain him until police arrived at the scene. The swift action allowed law enforcement to take the man into custody.
Court Hearing and Charges
During a court hearing on Wednesday, the man told the magistrate that he would only speak to Fox News and another individual whose name was unclear, as reported by the Detroit Free Press. He declined legal representation, and the magistrate ordered him to be held in Wayne County Jail. The man also left the courtroom with an expletive, according to reports.
The prosecutor’s office has charged the man with multiple offenses, including assault with intent to murder, based on the gravity of the attack.
Previous Criminal Record
Prosecutor Lisa Coyle revealed that the man was already on probation for a prior assault. In that case, he was accused of holding a butcher knife to a man’s neck and attempting to strike him with a bike chain.
Defense Attorney Declines Comment
Jessica Cheaib, a defense attorney who was on call during the man’s arraignment, declined to comment on the case as the man had not retained her as his legal counsel. Due to his lack of representation, the man’s identity has not been disclosed.
