Man arrested for attempted arson near Midvalley Elm. tried to enter the school with an ax: Documents

MIDVALE, UT (ABC4) — New details of the man who is accused of setting fire to a utility box nearby have become known Midvalley Primary School early Monday morning, according to arrest documents obtained by ABC4.com.

Christopher Francis Mandarino, 53, was arrested on one count of attempted arson causing damage of $5,000 or more, a second-degree felony; one count of attempted possession of a dangerous weapon by a disabled person, a second-degree felony; and one count of attempted interference with a law enforcement officer, a Class B misdemeanor. Arrest documents say Mandarino was considered a restricted person because he is a convicted felon.

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Officials were initially called to Midvalley Elementary School around 2:40 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 28, according to officials with The only fire service. The fire prompted to cancellation of intramural classes at school on Monday.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed in Third District Court, Mandarino was seen on security footage trying to enter the school through different doors but was unsuccessful. Officers described seeing Mandarino on the footage walking back to his car to retrieve the axe.

Pulling out an axe, Mandarino walked up to the “big green main power box” and reportedly tried to open it. He was unable to do so and later returned to his car to retrieve the drill.

Mandarino allegedly drilled several holes in the top of the transmission before getting into the car and driving away for a short time. Police said the footage showed Mandarino returning to the school and getting out of his car with a “metal can.”

“He leaves the can on top of the power box, sets fire to the ground around the box and the box,” arrest documents state.

Mandarino reportedly left the area after starting the fire. Classes were held online while officials assessed the damage, but firefighters said there was no threat to the school as of 8 a.m. Monday.

On the same day, the suspect was identified, the police stopped the traffic. Documents say Mandarino was “very confrontational with officers” as he reportedly resisted arrest.

Officers found a gun in his pocket, and Mandarino had his child in the car and reportedly packed a suitcase for them.

Mandarino was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on the aforementioned charges.

Allegations are just that. All persons arrested are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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