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A joint investigation between city police and fire authorities and the Pennsylvania College of Technology has resulted in the arrest of an individual suspected of setting several fires throughout the area, a press release from city police said.
According to authorities, Jacob George Fichter, 22, was captured on surveillance riding his bicycle in the vicinity of several intentionally set fire in the 1300 Block of Park Avenue, the 1000 Block of Vine Avenue, the 1300 Block of Scott Street and the 100 Block of Third Street between Nov. 4 and 5, the release said.
Penn College Police assisted with locating the bicycle and identifying the owner as Fichter, who then made several statements in relation to the arson.
A search warrant executed by city police on Fichter's residence and vehicle turned up items and clothing worn by Fichter in the surveillance videos, according to the press release.
Several man-made incendiary devices were also discovered by police serving the search warrant.
During police questioning, Fichter admitted to setting several of the fires, including both the Vine Street and Scott Street fires, the press release said.
Fichter was arraigned before District Judge Kirsten Gardner on one count each of arson endangering property, possession of explosive or incendiary materials or devices, possession of instruments of crime, recklessly endangering another person, two counts of loitering and prowling at night time three counts each of arson – reckless burning, reckless burning or exploding and five counts of criminal mischief.
He was jailed at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $200,000 bail.