Atlanta Police and the FBI are on the scene of an incident outside the Israeli Consulate offices in Midtown where a protester carrying a Palestinian flag set themselves on fire.
Atlanta Police confirmed during a press conference that the protester and a security guard who tried to extinguish the flames both sustained burn injuries just after 12:15 p.m. on Friday afternoon.
The protester sustained burns over 100% of their body and is in critical condition, while the security guard received burns to their wrist and legs. Both were transported to Grady Hospital for treatment.
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum called the incident an “extreme act of protest” and said his department was aware of the heightened tensions with the ongoing Israel-Hamas War. He said officers were patrolling the area around the Israeli Consulate at 1100 Spring Street and other locations.
Anat Sultan-Dadon, Consul General of Israel to the Southeastern United States, released the following statement about the incident:
“We are saddened to learn of the self-immolation at the entrance to the office building. It is tragic to see the hate and incitement toward Israel expressed in such a horrific way. The sanctity of life is our highest value. Our prayers are with the security officer who was injured while trying to prevent this tragic act. We are grateful to the city of Atlanta’s law enforcement and first responders for all they do to ensure safety.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
