“33-Year-Old Minneapolis Man Charged with Attempted Murder and Assault After Setting Fire to Wheelchair-Bound Victim: Anthony Leikas Faces Felony Charges”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : 33-Year-Old Minneapolis Man Faces Attempted Murder Charges for Setting Fire to Wheelchair-Bound Victim

In a shocking incident that has left the community in disbelief, a 33-year-old Minneapolis man has been charged with first-degree attempted murder and first-degree assault after allegedly setting fire to a tent with a wheelchair-bound victim inside. Anthony Leikas is now facing serious felony charges in connection to the disturbing incident that took place on December 4, court documents filed in Hennepin County reveal.

According to the criminal complaint, Minneapolis police received a distressing call just before 1 a.m. reporting that “a person had been started on fire” in the vicinity of Glenwood Avenue and Twins Way. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered the victim lying on the ground with severe burns covering his body. The victim, a double amputee reliant on a wheelchair, was able to communicate with the authorities and informed them that he overheard someone uttering the chilling words, “burn in hell,” as they ignited the tent.

Disturbing surveillance footage captured a single suspect, later identified as Leikas, stopping next to the victim’s tent before walking away. Within seconds, flames engulfed the tent. Astonishingly, the fire continued to rage for nearly an hour before first responders arrived at 12:55 a.m. Police pieced together additional evidence from the surveillance footage, leading them to identify Leikas as the likely perpetrator. He was apprehended on December 14 and subsequently confessed to witnessing the fire; however, he claims that two other individuals, who he alleges were present as witnesses, started the fire using cigarette butts.

Given the gravity of the incident, authorities are considering upgrading the charges against Leikas to murder. The victim, who suffered burns covering a staggering 85-90% of his body, remains hospitalized in critical condition. Unfortunately, officials have expressed little hope for his survival due to the extent of his injuries. Leikas is currently in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on January 18.

The shocking nature of this crime has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving residents deeply concerned for their safety. As the investigation continues, authorities are working tirelessly to ensure justice is served for the victim. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding the vulnerable members of our society and the urgent need to address the underlying causes of such heinous acts.

Stay tuned to CBS News for further updates on this developing story..