Arraignment For Suspect In Van Elslander Home Firebombing Attempt
GROSSE POINTE PARK (WWJ) - A Grosse Pointe Park man has been arraigned in connection with the firebombing of a home owned by a member of the Van Elslander family, which owns the Art Van Furniture chain.
Twenty-year-old Charles Patterson Kay stood by his attorney as he was charged with second-degree arson and two counts of explosives for allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at the home of Gary Van Elslander.
No one was hurt. Kay's attorney, Charles Berschback entered not guilty pleas for Kay and asked the court for a reasonable bond.
He takes medicine for ADD and depression - "so I'm concerned about his ability to seek treatment and stay on his medication," said Berschback.
Berschback says Kay is on probation for a "minor in possession" charge. Bond was set at $35,000 cash or surety.
Judge Charles Jarboe considered the seriousness of the charges and the fact that another Molotov cocktail was found at Kay's residence 'ready to go.'
Kay's parents hugged him after his arraignment.
A preliminary exam is set for May 29 in the case.
