Man Sets Himself on Fire in Lobby of Google Office Building in Lower Manhattan
A shocking incident occurred in Lower Manhattan on Friday when a 63-year-old man self-immolated in the lobby of an office building that houses Google. According to authorities, John Butch ignited himself using a lighter accelerant and was subsequently taken into custody for arson.
The police charged him with criminal mischief, arson, and reckless endangerment. Several people called 911 after witnessing the incident, prompting first responders to transport Butch to Weill Cornell Medical Center. He is reportedly in stable condition and undergoing treatment for burns.
Google occupies a total area of 410,556 square feet within the building and has released a statement confirming that Butch was not an employee of their company. A spokesperson for Google stated, 'We are aware of an incident that occurred today in the lobby at 315 Hudson, a building we share with other tenants.' They also mentioned that Butch appeared to be seeking access to another tenant's space.