Acting Essex County Prosecutor Robert D. Laurino announced today that Keontrae Lawrence, 22, of South Orange plead guilty to 2nd degree aggravated arson today before the Honorable Joseph Cassini 3rd, Judge of the Superior Court.

Assistant Prosecutor Michael Morris said the incident occurred on Feb. 10, 2009 at the location of 114 Eastern Parkway, Irvington.

Lawrence was seen running from the burning car just after he ignited a gasoline fire in the passenger compartment. The car belonged to the defendant’s grandmother. A witness saw him take off 2 rubber gloves and drop them near the scene. The defendant’s DNA was recovered from the gloves.

He is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Cassini on Jan. 18, 2011.