Parsippany New Jersey Arson ChargesParsippany police arrested a man who allegedly set fire to a couch and injured one person at a residence in Parsippany, NJ.

According to officials, the 27-year-old suspect started the blaze by igniting a couch. The couch had reportedly been left outdoors at a Lakeshore Drive residence.

Investigators determined that the suspect did not reside at the house. However, he reportedly knew the individual who did live at the house and who was injured while trying to put out the fire.

Once the fire grew out of control, Parsippany NJ police were called to the house.

Police and fire officials arrived at the scene and saw the couch on fire. It was later determined that the couch was the cause of the fire. First responders were able to extinguish the fire without any further injuries or property damage.

Parsippany police are currently investigating the alleged arson incident. At this time, investigators have not revealed why the couch was outside the home. Moreover, police have not stated if the suspect intended to cause damage to the house.

The suspect was arrested at the scene and charged with several criminal offenses, including aggravated arson, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. Prosecutors have indicated why the weapons charges were filed against the suspect.

If the suspect is ultimately convicted on the aggravated arson charges, he would face severe criminal penalties. As set forth by N.J.S.A. 2C:17-1, aggravated arson is a second degree criminal offense. Anyone who causes a fire resulting in injury to another person can be charged with second degree aggravated arson. A conviction for second degree aggravated arson can lead to a sentence of 5-10 years in NJ State Prison.

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department has asked anyone with information about the fire to call investigators at 973-263-4300. Members of the public can also leave anonymous tips by calling Morris County CrimeStoppers at 973-267-2255.

 

For further information about this case, view the NJ.com article entitled “Man Accused of Setting Couch Ablaze, Damaging Lake Parsippany Home.”