Accused Church Arsonist Getting Psych Tests

By UMMEY KARIM & KARI FORD

A hearing for the young man accused of throwing a gas bomb into a church in Washington Heights earlier this year was delayed Thursday at the request of the clinic that is running a psychiatric evaluation on the defendant.

Michael Garcia, 28, the Upper Manhattan resident whom neighbors described as “a good Christian.” faced arson, reckless endangerment and other charges in the incident.

Garcia’s mother, Linda, has been vocal about her son’s case until the court appearance when she refused to comment. She previously told reporters that she was surprised that her son would do anything like this, and that it was out of character. She also brought up his mental health, stating that he has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and was currently off his medication.

According to a reliable source, Garcia’s attorney was ready to proceed with the mental disorder defense, but neither Garcia nor his mother agreed.

Garcia allegedly filled a red canister at a nearby gas station, where authorities obtained security footage. According to prosecutors and the Fire officials, he lit the canister and threw it into the rear door of the Fort Washington Collegiate Church. The flames spread through the vestibule of the church as he walked away. There were about 60 people in the church at the time of the incident, none of whom were hurt, said the Manhattan DA’s office.

At the time of arrest, a box-cutter and a knife were recovered, said police.