Woman accused of lighting fire on porch after no answer at ‘friend’s’ house

BURLINGTON, Iowa (KWQC/Gray News) - A woman was arrested after she started a fire on a stranger’s front porch, according to police.

The homeowner told police that her home security cameras captured a woman on the porch who lit something on fire. The homeowner also said smoke was visible in the footage.

Officers found the woman, identified as Michelle Young. 46. She admitted to starting the fire when officers asked her what she was doing.

Young told police that she was walking around the area and picked up miscellaneous items including a car’s taillight, tin foil, bark and a yellow lawn flag.

She said that she went to the home believing her friend lived there and knocked three times, but did not get a response. She said she sat on a porch chair, smoked a cigarette and knocked again, according to police.

When Young did not get an answer, she lit the items she had with her on fire. She also said she saw a sign that said “Witches Welcome” and because she is a witch, she started the fire according to police. She said she also put clothing in the fire, according to the affidavit.

Young told police that she was not going to hurt anyone or let the fire get out of control.

Young charges of reckless use of fire/explosives/destructive devices and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The homeowner told police she did not know Young.

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