A New Jersey man has been arrested in connection with a Walmart fire in Maryland that investigators say was intentionally set using camping fuel and fireworks near a children’s clothing section.
WEBDESK – NJNEWSLINE
A man from Berlin has been arrested over an alleged arson attack inside a Walmart store in Maryland that caused millions of dollars in losses, authorities said.
Investigators from the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office identified the suspect as 36-year-old Anthony J. Rhodes.
Police said Rhodes was taken into custody Thursday by Berlin Township Police Department and was being held at the Camden County Correctional Facility pending extradition to Maryland.
Authorities charged Rhodes with multiple offenses, including arson and manufacturing an explosive device.
The fire was reported on April 29 at a Walmart located on East Pulaski Highway in Elkton.
According to investigators, the suspect entered the store wearing a mask and carrying a backpack before allegedly using camping fuel and fireworks to ignite a fire inside a shopping cart near the children’s clothing department.
Officials said the suspect then broke into a jewelry counter and stole nearly $10,000 worth of jewelry while customers and employees evacuated the building.
Authorities estimated direct fire damage at approximately $5,000. However, Walmart reported nearly $10 million in additional losses caused by smoke damage, soot contamination and cleanup operations.
The investigation remains ongoing.
