A 53-year-old man in New York allegedly tried to set a woman and two children on fire after pouring gasoline over them and their home during a dispute, authorities said.
Matthew J. Demming faces multiple charges, including second-degree attempted murder, criminal contempt, and aggravated family offense—each a felony—along with two misdemeanor counts of endangering the welfare of a child, according to the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident took place shortly after 10 A.M. Saturday at a home on Schwan Drive in Dryden, a town just outside Ithaca. Deputies said the victim called authorities after Demming appeared on her front porch, violating an order of protection.
Cops reported that Demming began arguing with the woman while the two children were present. He then allegedly grabbed a gasoline can from beside the home and poured it over the woman, the children, and the residence. Authorities said the defendant “was going to light them on fire until a witness intervened and physically removed him.”
Firefighters responded to the scene and helped decontaminate the victims. None of the victims were physically harmed. The children’s ages were not released.
Demming was arrested shortly after the incident in the area and taken to the Tompkins County Jail, where he is being held on a $200,000 bond.
Authorities did not provide details about the relationship between Demming and the victims, nor did they elaborate on the nature of the dispute with the woman.
The suspect’s next court date has not yet been scheduled.
The incident highlights the dangers associated with violations of protective orders and the potential for domestic disputes to escalate into life-threatening situations. Law enforcement officials praised the quick action of the witness who intervened, saying it likely prevented serious injury or worse.
“This could have ended in tragedy,” said a sheriff’s office spokesperson. “Thanks to the witness and first responders, the victims were unharmed, and the suspect was taken into custody promptly.”
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the dispute and are urging anyone with information to contact the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office.