Warren Man Reportedly Confesses To Arson, Attempted Homicide

SUGAR GROVE – Pennsylvania State Police report that a Warren man confessed to lighting a plastic bag containing gas and oil on fire near a Wilson Road residence Thursday evening with two other adults and five children inside.

Jackson K. Knappenberger, 25, was reportedly caught a short distance from the scene barefoot and muddy. Troopers said Knappenberger lost his boots while fleeing the scene.

Knappenberger is charged with seven counts of attempted homicide and arson.

Knappenberger is in Warren County Jail.

No injuries were reported to the victims, and the investigation remains ongoing.

A check of the PA Court of Common Pleas records indicate that a separate criminal case remains active against Knappenberger. Knappenberger was arrested and charged earlier this year with corruption of minors, corruption of minors (defendant age 18 or above), indecent assault of a person less than 13 and harassment (subject other to physical contact).

According to documents, the case was continued in October to the next trial term.