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Mystery Man Held After Mount Washington Church Fire
22 Jul
Summary
- A suspect faces charges related to a massive fire that destroyed a vacant church.
- The 23-year-old suspect, from Idaho, is under psychiatric observation.
- Investigators are determining if the fire was intentionally set or accidental.
A significant fire two weeks ago completely engulfed a vacant church on Pittsburgh's Mount Washington. The suspect charged, Colton Normand, 23, of Boise, Idaho, was apprehended at the scene and is currently held in the Allegheny County Jail. He remains under psychiatric observation and has not provided any statement to investigators regarding the incident.
Normand was previously found squatting in the church days before the fire and faces charges including obstruction and defiant trespass. Authorities noted a history of violent tendencies and an outstanding warrant in Boise for assault and battery. An advocacy group described Normand as an endangered autistic adult, potentially vulnerable and unable to recognize danger.
Investigators are actively working to determine the exact cause of the fire, whether it was intentional or accidental. They are also looking into the possibility of other individuals being present in the structure at the time of the blaze. The church building is now slated for demolition.
