Brighton Township, Michigan – Deputies say a 25-year-old man drove more than an hour to attack a family’s home with Molotov cocktails after stalking an underage girl he met on social media, igniting fires across a quiet neighborhood and alarming residents.
Alex Buley-Neumar is charged with aggravated stalking of a minor, manufacturing or possessing a Molotov cocktail, causing damage, using a computer to commit a crime, and accosting a child for immoral purposes. Authorities said the list of charges could grow as the investigation continues.
Incident overview
According to the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, the attack happened on November 28 around 9:30 p.m. on Burson Drive in Brighton Township. Deputies said an individual threw multiple Molotov cocktails at a home, setting fires that quickly spread across the residential block. Neighbors ran outside and put out the flames before they could cause severe damage.
Investigators recovered five Molotov cocktails at the scene. Surveillance footage from the area captured flashes of fire erupting near the home as the devices exploded.
How deputies identified the suspect
After collecting evidence and reviewing video, detectives identified Buley-Neumar as the suspect. Deputies said the attack was directly tied to an ongoing stalking and harassment case involving a juvenile the defendant had contacted on social media platforms.
The sheriff’s office said Buley-Neumar lived in Mount Pleasant, roughly 115 miles north of Brighton Township. Investigators believe he drove from his hometown to carry out the attack.
Community reaction
Many residents described the situation as unnerving, noting the quiet nature of the area and the potential risk to families.
A local resident told a Detroit-area news station:
“It’s really scary to know that someone drove an hour away just to come throw fireballs at someone’s house.”
Authorities said neighbors played a major role in preventing further destruction by reacting quickly and extinguishing the fires.
Arrest and charges
With help from Mount Pleasant police, deputies arrested Buley-Neumar on November 29. He was taken to the Livingston County Jail and arraigned the following Monday.
A judge ordered him held on a $1 million cash bond, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the potential danger to the victim and the community.
If convicted on all charges, Buley-Neumar faces up to 44 years in prison.
Ongoing investigation
The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office said additional charges are expected as digital evidence, social media activity, and communications between the suspect and the underage girl are reviewed. Detectives are also examining the materials used to construct the incendiary devices.
Officials emphasized that the attack highlights the growing risks connected to online interactions, particularly for minors, and urged parents to monitor their children’s digital communications closely.
What this incident means for local families
Brighton Township residents say the situation serves as a reminder of how quickly online harassment can escalate into real-world danger. Law enforcement agencies continue to stress the importance of reporting suspicious behavior early, especially when minors are involved.
The defendant is scheduled to appear in court again next week as prosecutors move forward with the case.
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