Man accused of cutting off his genitals, using them to start a fire, authorities say

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA/Gray News) - A man in Indiana is accused of cutting off his genitals and using them to start a fire, according to authorities

Christopher Peden is charged with one count of arson, which carries a potential prison sentence of up to 12 years.

Fort Wayne firefighters were dispatched to a garage fire in May, while at the same time, authorities were called to reports of a stabbing.

Peden told police he was stabbed somewhere downtown and that someone had threatened him the day before.

While at the hospital, Peden allegedly told an officer he was dishonest at the stabbing scene and wanted to be truthful. He said that at about 2 a.m., he went into the garage and used a kitchen knife to cut off his genitals.

Peden said he then poured gasoline on the dismembered organ and set it on fire, leaving the garage and walking away until he found police.

While investigating the scene, officials found a gasoline container and four lighters, as well as a kitchen knife.

Court records do not detail whether the genitals were located.

Peden is due back in court next week to set dates for a trial.