Arson Bomb Squad Detectives report the arrest of a Far Rockaway man for an incident that occurred on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at 3:15 a.m. in Inwood.

According to Detectives, Officers responded to a residence on Bayview Avenue for a disturbance. Upon arrival officers observed the defendant, William Witcher, 37, of 1302 Redfern Avenue, standing next to the victim’s vehicle. After an investigation it was determined that the defendant arrived at the victim’s residence and attempted to force entry into her home. After failing to gain entry the defendant went to the victim’s vehicle. He then ripped off a piece of his shirt and lit it on fire with a lighter before sticking the lit shirt into the victim’s gas filler cap. As officers attempted to place the defendant into custody he began to actively resist. After a brief struggle the defendant was taken into custody. While in custody the defendant continuously made verbal death threats to the officers. He was transported to an area hospital for further evaluation.

The defendant William Witcher has been charged with Arson 3^rd Degree, Attempted Burglary 2^nd Degree, Making a Terroristic Threat, Resisting Arrest, Criminal Mischief 4^th Degree and Aggravated Harassment 2^nd Degree. He will be arraigned when medically practical.

Details by: Det. Randazzo/ABS                                                     02/13/20/1045/8812