Indiana man accused of cutting off his genitals, using them to start garage fire

Christopher Michael Peden, 36, faces a felony arson charge after investigators say he set a Fort Wayne garage ablaze.

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — An Indiana man is facing a felony arson charge after investigators say he cut off his own genitals, doused them with gasoline, and set them on fire inside a detached garage, igniting a blaze that damaged the structure.

Christopher Michael Peden, 36, has been charged with one count of Level 4 felony arson in connection with the May 6 incident in Fort Wayne, according to court records.

Fire and stabbing calls unfold simultaneously

According to investigators, firefighters responded to reports of a detached garage fire while Fort Wayne police were simultaneously dispatched to investigate what was initially reported as a stabbing.

When officers located Peden, he allegedly claimed he had been stabbed in downtown Fort Wayne after being threatened the previous day. However, authorities say he later admitted the story was false while being treated at a local hospital.

Authorities describe disturbing confession

Court documents state that Peden told investigators he entered the detached garage around 2 a.m., used a kitchen knife to amputate his own genitals, poured gasoline over the severed tissue, and ignited it on the garage floor before leaving the scene.

Investigators recovered a red gasoline container, four lighters, and the kitchen knife from the garage during their search. Family members told police the garage had no electrical service, making an accidental electrical fire unlikely.

Criminal charge filed

Prosecutors have charged Peden with Level 4 felony arson, an offense that carries a potential prison sentence if he is convicted. Court records indicate Peden was released after posting a $10,000 surety bond and is scheduled to return to court later this month for additional proceedings.

Investigation continues

Authorities have not publicly identified a motive for the incident, and court filings do not provide additional details regarding Peden's mental state at the time. The allegations remain under investigation. As with all criminal defendants, Peden is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.