An Ephrata man was convicted at trial last week in Lancaster County Court of setting fire to his own house.

Michael T. Matthews was found guilty of three felony counts, included aggravated arson, for setting fire to a house on Hoover Drive with a female relative also inside the home.

Emergency responders had to rescue Matthews, 52, from a bedroom on May 14, 2018.

The jury deliberated about an hour following the two-day trial before deciding the case.

Lancaster County Judge Margaret Miller will order sentence in October, following a background investigation.

Assistant District Attorney Susan Ellison presented testimony from an Ephrata police sergeant who testified that, upon arrival at the burning home, Matthews was at the front door and went inside and locked the door.

Firefighters rescued Matthews from a bedroom. The female got out of the home on her own.

A firefighter was treated at the scene.

Matthews was hospitalized. He was arrested after being released.

ADA Ellison also called a Pennsylvania State Police fire marshal who testified that the fire was intentionally set.

The fire and smoke caused extensive damages and the home was condemned.

Ephrata police Detective Kenneth Lockhart filed charges which included aggravated arson (person present), arson and risking a catastrophe.

MEDIA CONTACT: Brett A. Hambright, 717-295-2041; bhambright@co.lancaster.pa.us; Twitter: @BrettHambright