CBS News Photojournalist Sets Himself Ablaze Near White House

Protest at Black Lives Matter Plaza

On a Saturday evening in Washington, DC, a CBS News photojournalist from Phoenix, Arizona, caused quite a stir at the Black Lives Matter Plaza near the White House. The photojournalist, Sam Mena Jr, set his left arm on fire while shouting, "I am a journalist. We spread the misinformation."

Pro-Palestinian Rally

Mena, who works for AZFamily KTVK 3TV and KPHO CBS 5 News, was participating in a pro-Palestinian rally near the White House when he attempted self-immolation. As he set his arm on fire, he yelled, "Free Palestine!", and "I'm a journalist and I'm ashamed! We spread the misinformation!"

Protest Against Biased Media Coverage

Mena's actions were reportedly a protest against what he perceives as biased US media coverage of Israel’s war in Gaza. Prior to the incident, he had posted a lengthy blog post on his website, in which he announced his intentions. He dedicated his act to the children of Gaza who have lost limbs in the conflict, expressing his hope that his voice could amplify theirs.

Close Proximity to Former President Trump

What is particularly alarming is that Mena, who seemed to be mentally unstable, was just a few feet away from former President Trump during a press conference in Arizona in the previous month.

Discontent with Mainstream Media Coverage

Mena's website reveals his growing disillusionment with mainstream media's coverage of the Israel-Gaza war. He expressed his discontent with the spread of misinformation, which he felt was undermining the principles of free speech.

Bottom Line

This incident raises several questions about the state of journalism and the impact of media coverage on global events. It also highlights the extreme measures some individuals are willing to take to express their discontent and make their voices heard. What are your thoughts on this incident? Do you believe that the media is spreading misinformation? Share this article with your friends and start a conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.