NJ man charged with firebombing Knights of Columbus

FAIR LAWN — A Paterson man has been charged with torching the Knights of Columbus building, which was partially destroyed by the fire in June.

Kenneth Smith, 46, was arrested Friday on charges of second-degree aggravated arson and third-degree possession of a prohibited weapon.

A portion of the Maple Avenue building went up in flames on June 27 before midnight. Authorities immediately suspected foul play.

Prosecutors in Bergen County say Smith threw a molotov cocktail-type explosive through a window.

Authorities on Saturday did not publicly say whether they knew what motivated Smith or what led them to identify him as a suspect.

Smith is employed as a trucking company dispatcher.

He was being held Saturday at Bergen County jail. New Jersey 101.5 did not know Saturday whether he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

A representative for the Catholic organization could not immediately be reached for comment Saturday afternoon.

Sergio Bichao is deputy digital editor at New Jersey 101.5. Send him news tips: Call 609-359-5348 or email sergio.bichao@townsquaremedia.com.