SNYDER TOWNSHIP – A Blair County man is facing multiple charges after police say he threatened to light himself and his camper on fire, while also attempting to pour gasoline on state troopers.
Jason Morrissey, 37, of Tyrone, is facing charges of aggravated assault, criminal attempt/arson, terroristic threats, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, resisting arrest, criminal mischief and disorderly conduct.
According to a police report, Morrissey engaged in a verbal altercation with his girlfriend at their residence at 808 Belmont Ave. around 12 p.m. Saturday. The verbal argument lasted all afternoon and into the evening, with Morrissey consuming numerous alcoholic beverages during that time.
Around 9 p.m., a neighbor observed Morrissey attempting to light himself on fire, and pouring gasoline around the camper that was parked on his property. Morrissey also poured gas within the interior of the camper. The neighbor then notified other to call the police.
When state troopers arrived on scene, they found Morrissey in possession of a lighter and gasoline at the base of the camper, with a strong odor of gas in the area.
When police told Morrissey to put the lighter down, he stood up grabbed a five-gallon gas can, and attempted to pour gas on the approaching troopers, police said.
Police said every time Morrissey attempted to ignite his lighter, officers used a vehicle fire extinguisher on him to prevent any fire from starting. Morrissey retreated into the camper and threatened to set himself and the camper on fire. When flame ignition was observed, police broke out the camper windows.
When police entered the camper, Morrissey again attempted to pour gas on them and ignite the camper. Police were eventually able to physically remove Morrissey from the camper and he was apprehended at the scene.
Police said the damage to the camper is valued at $500.
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