October trial set for Toledo firefighters' accused murderer

5/1/2014

The case of an Oregon man accused of setting a fire at a North Toledo apartment building that killed two Toledo firefighters is to go to trial Oct. 27.

Lucas County Common Pleas Judge Frederick McDonald scheduled the trial this morning for Ray Abou-Arab, 61, of 1311 Sierra Dr., during a pretrial hearing that was well attended by both firefighters and supporters of Mr. Abou-Arab.

The judge also granted a motion to allow the defendant to wear civilian clothing and to be unshackled every time he is brought to court for an appearance.

Mr. Abou-Arab is charged with two counts of aggravated murder, each with death penalty specifications; two counts of murder; eight counts of aggravated arson, and one count of tampering with evidence stemming from the Jan. 24 fire that killed fire Pvts. Stephen Machcinski, 42, and James Dickman, 31