By Erika Hernandez
New York State authorities arrested a fifty-three-year-old man accused of trying to set fire to a woman and two minors after dousing them with gasoline during a dispute that occurred Saturday in the town of Dryden, near Ithaca.
The suspect was identified as Matthew J. Demming, who faces charges of attempted second-degree murder, criminal contempt and aggravated criminal battery, in addition to two counts of endangering the welfare of children.
Violated a protective order
According to the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred shortly after 10:00 a.m. at a home located on Schwan Drive.
The investigation indicates that the woman called the authorities after Demming showed up at her home, allegedly in violation of a protective order in place against her.
The agents indicated that the man began an argument with the victim while two children were present in the home.
doused with gasoline
During the altercation, Demming allegedly took a container of gasoline that was next to the house and began pouring the fuel on the woman, the minors and part of the residence.
Authorities say he later pulled out a lighter and was preparing to light the fire when a witness intervened.
According to the police report, that person managed to physically stop him and separate him before he could carry out the attack.
Officers located and arrested Demming shortly after in the vicinity of the scene.
He was later taken to the Tompkins County Jail, where he remains held with bail set at $200,000.
Firefighters went to the home to assist the victims and carry out decontamination work due to exposure to gasoline.
The authorities indicated that neither the woman nor the minors suffered physical injuries. The age of the children was not reported.
Open investigation
Investigators have not revealed the exact relationship between Demming and the victims nor have they offered details about the conflict that motivated the incident.
The date of the defendant’s next court appearance has also not been reported.
The case remains under investigation as authorities review the circumstances surrounding the alleged attempted murder.
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