John Butch, 63, has been arrested for arson after self-immolating in a Lower Manhattan building housing Google.

Published on: Aug 29, 2026, 19:59:23 IST

Prefer HTon Google

Share via
Copy link

The man who self-immolated within a Lower Manhattan office building has been taken into custody for arson, according to the NYPD on Saturday.

John Butch, 63, reportedly ignited himself using a “lighter accelerant” in the lobby of a building that accommodates Google on Hudson Street close to Vandam Street at approximately 3 p.m. on Friday, law enforcement stated.

Charges against John Butch

He faces charges of criminal mischief, arson, and reckless endangerment, as per the police.

Following the alleged self-immolation of Butch within the premises, which also accommodates the NYPD’s Internal Affairs Bureau, several people dialed 911, prompting first responders to transport him to Weill Cornell Medical Center, according to officials.

How is John Butch's condition?

He is undergoing treatment for burns at that location and has been reported to be in stable condition, according to the police.

Authorities have verified that Butch is not an employee of the NYPD.

Google occupies a total area of 410,556 square feet within the building, as reported by The Commercial Observer in 2024.

Here's what Google has said

A spokesperson for Google stated on Friday, “We are aware of an incident that occurred today in the lobby at 315 Hudson, a building we share with other tenant."

“While the individual appeared to be seeking access to another tenant’s space in the building, we remain in close contact with local authorities. We are grateful to first responders.”

See Less