In Allen County, a dramatic incident unfolded Thursday afternoon when a fire broke out at the Markey Bonding building in downtown. The fire was allegedly started by a man who assembled a “Molotov cocktail,” which set off a chain of events that resulted in injuries and a dramatic escape attempt.
Details of the Incident
According to reports from the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, 41-year-old Emmanuel K. Collier is facing several serious charges following the incident. Collier has been charged with two counts of arson, criminal mischief, resisting law enforcement, and arson with bodily injury.
Additionally, he faces a charge related to the possession, manufacturing, and distribution of a destructive device.
The fire started after Collier allegedly poured liquid from a can labeled “tape primer” down an elevator shaft. He then crafted a Molotov cocktail using a metal can filled with an unknown substance and a piece of cloth. After throwing the device into the elevator shaft, the fire quickly spread.
The Escape and Fall
When the fire was reported, the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) responded to the scene, where witnesses claimed to have seen a man, later identified as Collier, climbing up the natural gas plumbing on the west side of the building.
Officers entered the building to find heavy smoke and made their way up to the third floor, where they found Collier.
Collier allegedly ignored officers’ commands and instead broke through a window. He then slid down a sign before attempting to lower himself onto a canopy.
Unfortunately, during this escape, Collier fell from the canopy into decorative planter boxes below, which resulted in injuries. He was then taken into custody by the police and rushed to a local hospital for treatment.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Collier’s actions, which involved setting the fire and risking the lives of others, led to charges that carry serious consequences. According to court documents, the fire endangered not only the building’s occupants but also the lives of the FWPD officers. The incident resulted in injuries to two officers.
Collier initially denied starting the fire and requested a lawyer after his arrest. He reportedly told officers, “he did not start the fire,” despite the evidence pointing toward his involvement in the dangerous act. He is currently being held in the Allen County Jail, where he will face an initial hearing on June 17.
This incident serves as a reminder of the serious consequences that can arise from the use of destructive devices and the danger posed to both law enforcement and the public.
Collier’s attempt to escape and evade arrest after causing the fire only added to the chaos of the situation. His upcoming court appearance will determine the next steps in this case.
