District Court in the Eastern District of New York. and began pouring the gasoline on the floor of the club, according to a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. He then entered the Rash Bar around 9:20 p.m. “The victims, and all LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, should be able to enjoy their nights out in peace and without fear of such a dangerous attack.”Īuthorities say Lhota could be seen on security video purchasing a red canister at a local gas station and filling it up with gasoline at a pump. “This Office strongly condemns such acts of violence, and will vigorously prosecute this case,” Peace said in a statement.
Attorney Breon Peace said “Lhota deliberately set fire to a bar and nightclub patronized by members of the LGBTQ+ community.” He faces a maximum of 40 years in prison for allegedly setting fire to the Brooklyn nightclub and hospitalizing two people, according to the Justice Department. John Lhota, 24, of Brooklyn, was arrested on April 6. Local and federal authorities on Thursday announced that charges have been filed against a suspect in the April 3 arson of an LGBT club in New York City.
