Debunked: Viral Video Exposes False Claims of Fox News Christmas Tree Burning in 2023

Allegations of a Christmas tree being set on fire outside the Fox News headquarters in New York recently surfaced online, with reports suggesting that Pro-Palestine protestors were responsible. The purported incident gained traction on social media platforms, fueled by a video showing a decorated Christmas tree engulfed in flames while law enforcement looked on. However, as convincing as the claims seemed, they are far from accurate.

Fake Video – A Christmas Tree Not Burned by Pro-Palestine Demonstrators:

Contrary to the online buzz, a Christmas tree was not burned down by Pro-Palestine demonstrators outside the Fox News New York headquarters. The video that circulated online was not a recent occurrence. Raws Alerts, the source of the video, clarified that the incident took place in December 2021 when a homeless man set the Christmas tree on fire.

What’s the deal with this account making the fake claim that the Christmas tree outside the Fox building is on fire? He’s hiding all of the posts saying it’s from 2021. pic.twitter.com/cJWyXuQkRM

Advertisement

— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) December 25, 2023

2021 Arson Incident Clarification:

In 2021, Fox News Security discovered a man, identified as Craig Tamanaha, climbing the 50-foot Christmas tree set up outside the news outlet’s building. Tamanaha set the tree on fire, prompting a swift response from firefighters who extinguished the flames. The arsonist was arrested on charges including criminal mischief, reckless endangerment, arson, criminal nuisance, disorderly conduct, and criminal tampering. The exact motive behind the arson remained unknown.

Just a heads up that video of the Fox News Christmas tree that was set by homeless person was from two years ago on December 8th 2021

— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) December 25, 2023

Pro-Palestine Protests and Calls to Cancel Christmas:

While the debunked incident caused a stir online, pro-Palestine groups, such as Shut It Down for Palestine, have engaged in protests calling for the cancellation of Christmas festivities. The organization emphasized the ongoing challenges faced by Christians in Gaza and Bethlehem, linking their demonstrations to the broader context of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Non-profit groups like People’s Forum and Palestinian Youth Movement held a rally in Manhattan’s luxury shopping district, using the platform to draw attention to the conflict.

The debunking of claims surrounding the Fox News Christmas tree arson highlights the importance of fact-checking in the age of social media. While online narratives can quickly gain momentum, it is crucial to verify information to avoid spreading misinformation. In this case, the video circulating online was indeed real, but the context was misrepresented, leading to inaccurate accusations against Pro-Palestine protestors. As tensions persist in the Israel-Palestine conflict, the need for accurate reporting and responsible social media engagement remains paramount.

• Also read: Social Media Erupts as Charleston White Declares He No Longer Wants to Date Cardi B Amidst Viral Video Drama