Fort Wayne man accused of cutting off his genitals and using them to commit arson

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (GRAY MEDIA) — A 36-year-old Fort Wayne man is facing charges after allegedly cutting off his genitals and using them while committing arson.

In May, the Fort Wayne Fire Department was dispatched to a garage fire while Fort Wayne Police officers were dispatched to reports of a stabbing, according to court records.

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

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

According to court records, Peden said he then poured gasoline on the dismembered organ and set it on fire. He reportedly left the garage and walked away until he found police.

A fire investigator located a gasoline container and four lighters as well as a nearby kitchen knife at the scene. Court records don't detail whether the genitals were located.

Peden is charged with arson, which carries a potential prison sentence of up to 12 years. He is due back in court next week to set dates for a trial.