Neighbor tried to stop a man during a spider-killing spree — the fallout has now led Pennsylvania cops to look for him on multiple charges
One careless act can escalate into a situation that affects many people. In a Pennsylvania community, officers are searching for a man after a neighbor tried to stop him during what authorities described as repeated attempts to kill spiders inside his home. The confrontation between the two men has now resulted in several criminal charges. As reported by PEOPLE, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, investigators said that the situation prompted Pennsylvania police to actively search for the suspect. Officials confirmed that the case involves serious allegations and ongoing efforts to locate him.
Police identified the man as 36-year-old Sean McDermott. Officers were dispatched to his townhome on Uncus Lane in Pocono Pines at about 6 p.m. local time on February 23, 2026, after reports of a structure fire. By the time emergency crews arrived, the blaze had already grown and was moving through the residence. Investigators later said the larger fire followed several smaller ones that McDermott had allegedly set inside the home as part of his effort to kill spiders.
According to police, a witness told them that McDermott had been lighting small fires throughout the day inside the house. McDermott reportedly told the witness that he “needed to kill the spiders within the residence.” Police added that “McDermott had a smoldering fire going on the floor and then placed a loveseat on top of the fire.” The witness reported trying to put out the flames, but each time the fires were extinguished, they were started again. "He kept putting the fires out, and McDermott kept lighting them."
The witness also told authorities that he and McDermott left the area for a short period. When they later returned, the townhome was fully engulfed in flames. The fire did not stay contained to one unit; instead, it spread to three connected townhomes, causing major damage to neighboring properties. Residents nearby were placed at risk as smoke and heat moved quickly through the building. Emergency responders worked to bring the situation under control.
Police reported that after the fire intensified, McDermott fled the scene in a U-Haul truck. By the time officers began their investigation, he was no longer at the residence. Authorities later confirmed that he is wanted on charges including setting fires (arson), aggravated arson, creating or risking a major disaster, property damage (criminal mischief), and carelessly putting another person in danger. Officials stated that these charges reflect both the property damage and the danger posed to others.
As of the latest update, police continue to search for McDermott. They have asked anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact 911 or the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. The case has drawn attention due to the unusual claims shared by investigators regarding the reason behind the fires. Authorities express that the investigation remains active as they work to locate the suspect and assess the full impact on the affected homes.