Masked NJ suspect charged with using fuel, fireworks in Walmart kids section as cover for massive jewelry heist
A New Jersey man was arrested in connection with a jewelry heist at a Maryland Walmart, where he allegedly used fireworks and camping fuel to create a diversion. The incident occurred on April 29, 2026, in Elkton, leading to a fire that caused extensive smoke damage. The suspect, Anthony J. Rhodes, faces charges including first-degree arson and manufacturing an explosive device.
- ▪Anthony J. Rhodes, 36, was arrested for allegedly setting a fire with camping fuel and fireworks in a Walmart kids' section.
- ▪The fire served as a distraction while the suspect stole nearly $10,000 worth of jewelry.
- ▪Walmart reported $10 million in losses due to smoke, soot, and cleanup despite only $5,000 in direct fire damage.
- ▪Rhodes was identified in part by wearing a Jefferson University Baseball T-shirt despite no known connection to the school.
- ▪The investigation involved the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, ATF, and Walmart Global Investigations.
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US News Masked NJ suspect charged with using fuel, fireworks in Walmart kids section as cover for massive jewelry heist By Alexandra Koch, Fox News Published May 17, 2026, 3:28 a.m. ET Originally Published by: Alex Murdaugh defense teases new trial strategy with jury fight, testimony looming Suspected drunk driver kills 2 pedestrians in violent chain-reaction crash on UWS Driver identified after car plows into crowd injuring 8 A New Jersey man was arrested Thursday after allegedly sparking a massive fire with camping fuel and fireworks inside a Maryland Walmart, creating a terrifying diversion to pull off a $10,000 jewelry heist. Anthony J.
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