Official statements or press releases from organizations

Journalist Samuel Mena Sets Arm Ablaze Near White House Protesting Media Bias

Oct 6, 2024, 06:04 AM

A man identified as journalist Samuel Mena Jr attempted to set himself on fire near the White House during a pro-Palestinian protest on October 5, 2024. The incident occurred at 16th Street and I Street NW, outside Saint John's near the White House. Mena poured fuel over himself and ignited his arm, reportedly shouting, 'I'm a journalist; we spread the misinformation,' in protest against biased media coverage of the conflict in Gaza. Bystanders and police intervened to extinguish the flames, and he suffered superficial burns to his arm. He was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Some witnesses said he claimed to work for CBS, though this has not been verified. The protest was part of a 'National Day of Action' marking the one-year anniversary of the conflict between Israel and Gaza.