Updated 12/27/2011 03:45 PM
Webster Teen Accused of Deadly Fire Pleads Not Guilty
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The Webster teenager facing murder and arson charges was arraigned Tuesday.
Michael Pilato, 15, is accused of setting fire to his family's home in Webster in early December. He's charged with six counts of second degree murder, two counts of attempted second degree murder, and one count of arson.
Court documents say Pilato admitted to police he poured gasoline in his Cardile Drive home and started a fire with the intention to cause his family members' deaths.
Michael's father, Carmen, and his two brothers, Peter and Joshua, died. Michael's mother and sister were injured, but escaped the flames.
Court papers also say that Pilato admitted to the crime. Incoming District Attorney Sandra Doorley, who is prosecuting the case, says she plans to serve the defense with a videotaped interview where Pilato makes those admissions.
"At this point, the grand jury has heard evidence in this case. They've handed down an indictment and now we'll proceed to trial," said Doorley.
Defense attorney Andre Vitale says his client is still a very confused young man. He says Pilato is cooperating, and they're now going through his background before that day.
No family members were in court Tuesday. Vitale says some family members are supportive; others are angry. Vitale would not comment on allegations that there were issues going on in the home, but said they're looking at every angle of the case.
"I've received numerous phone calls from people saying one thing may be going on, something else may be going on. We're going to be looking into everything. I'm not going to comment on anything until we have a better understanding of exactly what's true," said Vitale.
Michael Pilato is being held without bail in a juvenile detention facility. His defense attorney expects that this case, will go to trial. They're all due back in court January 5th.