A self-described “witch” set fire to a stranger’s front porch in Iowa after they failed to answer her three knocks at the door.
Michelle Young — who sported a massive grin and wild hair in her mugshot — allegedly told investigators she was under the impression her friend lived at the Iowa home when she ignited the blaze around 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, the Burlington Police Department said.
The 46-year-old was still standing on the burning porch when firefighters arrived, fortunately in time to extinguish the flames with minimal damage to the property.
She readily admitted to setting the fire, telling cops she had scooped up “miscellaneous items” to ignite while on a two-hour walk around the neighborhood, cops said.
Young told officers she was a “witch” and had observed a sign that said, “Witches Welcome” on the porch, according to a criminal complaint obtained by The Hawk Eye.
She had knocked on the door three times before stopping to smoke a cigarette on the porch before knocking once more, Young allegedly told investigators.
That’s when she started burning clothing and other items.
The entire act was caught on the homeowner’s security camera.
“The resident said she did not know the woman and had never seen her before,” police said.
She claimed she had no intention of hurting anyone or letting the fire grow out of control.
At the scene, police allegedly discovered she was carrying a clear glass smoking pipe.
Young was charged with reckless use of fire and possession of drug paraphernalia.
She is being held on a $5,000 cash-only bond.
