In a shocking turn of events, a New Jersey man has been arrested for allegedly igniting a fire inside a Walmart in Maryland, using it as a diversion to steal nearly $10,000 worth of jewelry. The audacious heist unfolded on the night of April 29, leaving customers and employees in a state of panic.
Anthony J. Rhodes, 36, from Berlin, New Jersey, was apprehended by local authorities and is currently awaiting extradition in a Camden County jail. He faces serious charges, including first-degree arson and the manufacturing of an explosive device.
According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, the chaos began when Rhodes entered the Elkton store wearing a mask and carrying a backpack. Security footage captured him loading a grocery cart with camping fuel and boxes of fireworks before setting the cart ablaze near the children’s clothing section.
As flames erupted and fireworks exploded, shoppers and staff rushed to safety, creating a scene of utter confusion. Taking advantage of the chaos, Rhodes reportedly smashed into the jewelry counter, making off with a staggering amount of merchandise before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle.
While firefighters from the Singerly Fire Company quickly contained the blaze, which caused approximately $5,000 in direct fire damage, Walmart reported that the aftermath—including smoke and cleanup—resulted in a staggering $10 million in lost inventory.
Rhodes was reportedly wearing a Jefferson University baseball T-shirt during the incident, a detail that helped investigators track him down. Interestingly, officials noted that he had no known ties to the university or its sports teams.
The investigation involved collaboration between the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Walmart Global Investigations. Acting State Fire Marshal Jason Mowbray expressed pride in the teamwork that led to Rhodes’ identification and arrest.
A Walmart spokesperson praised law enforcement for their quick response, highlighting the importance of their partnership in resolving such incidents swiftly.
As the investigation continues, many are left wondering what could have motivated such a dramatic and dangerous crime.
