Dryden, N.Y. — A local man has been charged with attempted murder following a disturbing incident in which he allegedly poured gasoline over a woman and her children during a heated confrontation last month. Authorities reported that the situation escalated on June 6, when Matthew J. Demming, 53, attempted to ignite the fuel but was stopped by a bystander before he could do so.
Demming was taken into custody shortly after the confrontation, which occurred at a residence on Schwan Drive. The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office reported that the man faces multiple charges, including second-degree attempted murder, first-degree criminal contempt, aggravated family offense, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. Thankfully, the woman and children involved were treated by firefighters for potential contamination and were not physically injured.
The confrontation began around 10:18 a.m. when law enforcement responded to reports of a dispute at the home. As officers were dispatched, dispatchers relayed information that a white male had poured gasoline and left the scene. It was later revealed that Demming had violated a court-issued order of protection that prohibited him from having any contact with the woman. Witnesses indicated that a heated verbal argument ensued while the children were present, prompting Demming to retrieve a gasoline can from the property and pour its contents over the family.
Authorities stated that the situation became increasingly perilous when Demming produced a lighter and attempted to set the gasoline alight. A courageous bystander intervened at this critical moment and physically restrained him. While officials have not released the identity of the witness, their actions were essential in preventing a potentially catastrophic outcome.
After the incident, Demming was located nearby and arrested without further conflict. However, details regarding his exact whereabouts following the confrontation remain unclear. Law enforcement did not disclose whether they recovered the lighter from him or the location of the gasoline can. The lack of additional weapons or ignitions was also noted in the official report.
Following his arrest, Demming was taken to the Tompkins County Jail and held without bail, as a judge set conditions for his release at $100,000 cash or a $200,000 bond. The arraignment process allowed him to learn the specific charges against him and enter a plea, although further details about his legal representation and upcoming court dates have yet to be made public.
New York law classifies second-degree attempted murder as a Class B violent felony, while the charges related to child endangerment are considered Class A misdemeanors. The law also dictates that an aggravated family offense, which can arise from prior domestic incidents, elevates the severity of the situation.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working to compile evidence, witness statements, and any pertinent recordings from emergency dispatch calls. The absence of a fire and physical injuries does not eliminate the severity of the attempted murder charge, which centers on Demming’s alleged intent and actions during the incident.
As the case unfolds, more information may come to light, particularly regarding Demming’s history of interactions with the victim and the circumstances surrounding the existing order of protection. However, for now, the identities of the victims, including the woman and her children, remain confidential, as they are considered minors.
Legal proceedings will continue as prosecutors evaluate the evidence and determine whether the case will proceed to a grand jury. The community is on alert as they await further developments in what has become a disturbing chapter for Dryden.