Stolen lighter fluid leads to discovery of meth ingredients

KENDALLVILLE, Ind. (WANE) - Two Kendallville men were arrested Thursday afternoon after police say they stole lighter fluid from a gas station. Police then found ingredients commonly used to meth after the theft.

According to an Indiana State Trooper, Daniel Campbell, 36, and Zachary Knight, 19, both from Kendallville, went into the Marathon gas station, located at the intersection of Main and Diamond Streets in Kendallville, at around 5:30 p.m.

Police said Campbell left the gas station a few minutes later and got into a pickup truck. Knight also exited the store. Police said as he was about to get into the truck, the owner of the Marathon came outside telling Knight to stop. Police said Knight then took off running and Campbell began to drive away, but was quickly stopped by ISP Troopers.

According to police, Knight was chased on foot by two ISP Troopers. He was caught a short time later. The owner of the gas station identified Knight and said he stole a can of Zippo lighter fluid.

Police said they searched Campbell’s truck and found lithium batteries. Police also said Campbell had a box of Sudafed pills on him.

Those items, in conjunction with the lighter fluid, which is an organic solvent, led to the two men's arrests. Both men were incarcerated in the Noble County Jail.

According to officers, Campbell was charged with Possession of Precursors with the Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine and Knight was charged with Possession of Precursors with the Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine

If you know of, or suspect meth activity in your community, report it by calling (800) 453-4756 or completing an online tip form .