The Michigan man who orchestrated a harrowing cross-country arson attack in Bensalem has been sentenced to 20 to 40 years in state prison. Harrison Jones, 22, of Rockford, Michigan, received the sentence on Wednesday following a series of charges related to a February 2025 fire that decimated a local family home.
The incident occurred in the 5200 block of Merganser Way, a residential neighborhood located near the intersection of Hulmeville Road and Street Road. Investigators determined that Jones drove over 700 miles from Michigan to the residence, motivated by jealousy over an online relationship. Upon arrival, he used an accelerant to ignite a massive explosion that leveled the rear of the home while six people were sleeping inside.
The fire trapped the residents, forcing them to jump from second-story windows to escape the inferno. While all six occupants survived, two family dogs perished in the blaze. During the emotional sentencing hearing, victims described the terror of being blinded by thick smoke and credited the pets for alerting them to the danger in time to flee.
Bensalem Detectives utilized Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) and surveillance footage to track Jones’ Volkswagen Passat across state lines. When he was apprehended in Michigan days later, he still bore visible burn marks on his arms from the explosion. In addition to the prison term, a judge ordered Jones to pay more than $500,000 in restitution for the complete destruction of the property.
Status
Harrison Jones pleaded no contest to six counts of attempted homicide and two counts of aggravated animal cruelty. He pleaded guilty to arson and risking catastrophe. He was sentenced to 20 to 40 years in state prison with no credit for time served.
