A New Jersey man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities said he started a fire inside a Maryland Walmart to create a distraction while stealing jewelry.
Fire Broke Out Inside Maryland Walmart
According to the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal, Anthony J. Rhodes, 36, is charged with several crimes, including first-degree arson and manufacturing an explosive device.
The incident happened on April 29 at the Walmart Supercenter on East Pulaski Highway in Elkton.
Investigators Say Fire Was Intentional
Fire crews responded around 7 p.m. and quickly extinguished the blaze, but officials said the damage was extensive.
Investigators allege Rhodes used camping fuel and fireworks to ignite a shopping cart near the children’s clothing section.
Authorities said the fireworks intensified the flames and created panic inside the store.
Jewelry Stolen During Chaos
While customers and employees evacuated, Rhodes allegedly stole around $10,000 worth of jewelry from the store.
Officials said the fire itself caused about $5,000 in direct damage, but smoke, soot, and cleanup costs pushed total losses close to $10 million.
Surveillance Footage Helped Identify Suspect
Investigators reviewed security footage showing a masked man wearing a Jefferson University baseball shirt entering the store with a backpack.
Authorities later connected the clothing to Rhodes, although officials said he has no known ties to Jefferson University or its baseball team.
Police said the suspect was also seen leaving the store on a motorcycle after the theft.
Suspect Arrested in New Jersey
Rhodes was arrested Thursday by the Berlin Township Police Department in New Jersey on a Maryland warrant.
He is currently being held at the Camden County Correctional Facility while awaiting extradition to Maryland.
