CLINTON, S.C. (AP) — Authorities say an 84-year-old man intentionally rammed a car into an assisted living home in South Carolina and he has been charged with attempted murder.

Public Safety Director Robin Morse in the community of Clinton told media outlets he consulted with prosecutors before filing the serious felony charges against Alton Payton. Investigators said Payton drove the car through the doors at Bailey Manor assisted living home Wednesday, ending up in the lobby.

Authorities say a portable gas can in the car caught fire and several people suffered smoke inhalation. All 40 residents had to be evacuated because of the damage, which officials estimated at $500,000.

Payton is being held in jail as he awaits a bond hearing. Court records did not indicate if Payton had a lawyer.

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