Masked suspect charged with using fuel, fireworks in Walmart kids section as cover for massive jewelry heist
A masked suspect allegedly used camping fuel and fireworks to start a fire in a Maryland Walmart's children's section as a diversion for a jewelry heist. The incident caused significant smoke and soot damage, leading to $10 million in lost inventory despite minimal fire damage. The suspect, Anthony J. Rhodes, was arrested and faces charges including first-degree arson and manufacturing an explosive device.
- ▪Anthony J. Rhodes, 36, was arrested in New Jersey and is awaiting extradition to Maryland.
- ▪The fire was set on April 29 in an Elkton Walmart, triggering chaos as fireworks exploded and customers fled.
- ▪Rhodes allegedly stole nearly $10,000 worth of jewelry after setting the fire, which caused $10 million in inventory losses due to smoke and cleanup.
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Crime Masked suspect charged with using fuel, fireworks in Walmart kids section as cover for massive jewelry heist Retail giant says smoke, soot and cleanup from the April 29 blaze at a Maryland store resulted in $10M in lost inventory By Alexandra Koch Fox News Published May 16, 2026 5:36pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Fox News Flash top headlines for May 16 Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on FoxNews.com. NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! 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.
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