Iowa City man accused of trying to set himself on fire with children present

Lang
3/26/23

Allegedly trying to start himself on fire inside a house while children were present has led to multiple charges against an Iowa City man.

Iowa City Police were called to the Sandusky Drive residence of 43-year-old Eric Harris just after 10:15 Saturday night after he allegedly tried to set himself and nearby furniture on fire with a blowtorch.  Multiple other people were inside the residence with Harris at the time, including two children.

Officers arrived to reportedly find Harris holding the blowtorch to his face. They say there was clear evidence that Harris had tried to start furniture on fire. He allegedly admitted to trying to set himself on fire.

Harris is charged with 1st Degree Arson and two counts of Child Endangerment. If convicted on all charges, he faces a maximum of 29 years in prison.