New York Backyard Fire Sparks Arrest After Man Burns Adult Toys

A man admitted to starting a three-alarm fire last week, which damaged three homes, after intentionally setting fire to a couple of sex toys.

Fire Erupts After Unusual Backyard Activity

A Staten Island man is facing multiple charges after police say he admitted to setting sex toys on fire in his backyard, sparking a massive blaze that damaged multiple properties. The fire began around 1 p.m. on Wednesday and quickly escalated, impacting three homes and two cars, according to authorities.

The house on fire - Staten Island Police

"I Lit Them on Fire," Suspect Allegedly Confesses

According to court records, 37-year-old Harry Torres confessed to police that he started the fire by lighting two sex toys on fire in his backyard. One of the items was described as a rubber vagina; the other was not identified. The flames reportedly spread to the back of his own home before jumping to neighboring houses and vehicles.

“This was a heavy, deep-seated fire that necessitated the use of three alarms,” said FDNY Deputy Assistant Chief David Simms. Firefighters battled the blaze for about three hours before it was fully extinguished by 4 p.m.

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Arrest Made as Community Recovers

Torres was arrested at the scene wearing slippers and a blue bathrobe. He now faces charges including fourth-degree arson, second-degree reckless endangerment, and fourth-degree criminal mischief. While no injuries were reported, the fire left a visible path of destruction and a shocked community.

The incident has sparked questions about fire safety and bizarre backyard behavior. Investigations are ongoing as cleanup begins in the neighborhood.