Carrick man tells authorities he intentionally lit fires to get their attention

CARRICK, Pa. — A Carrick man accused of arson told police he set fires inside his duplex because he wanted to get caught.

According to police, Bryan Williams told them he set several fires at his Becks Run Road home Monday night about 6 p.m. to get their attention.

Authorities said Williams, 26, lit garbage and household items on fire on purpose and told the responding officers, “I don’t have a phone and need to go to the hospital for the pain in my leg. I figured I’d set these fires so people could see I need help.”

Patrick Stehle, who lives on the other side of Williams’ duplex, told officers he’s seen Williams intentionally light grease fires and throw water on them to keep them going. He added that he’s afraid his neighbor is going to burn the entire duplex down.

Arson investigators said they found evidence inside Williams’ home that someone tried to ignite fires around a gas furnace.

According to the criminal complaint, when confronted with the evidence, Williams told police to arrest him.

Williams is charged with arson and risking a catastrophe. He will also be evaluated by the staff at the behavioral clinic inside the Allegheny County Jail.

WPXI