Walmart Fire and Theft Suspect Sought by State Fire Marshal

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is seeking public assistance to identify an individual believed to be responsible for a fire and subsequent theft at a Walmart Supercenter. The incident occurred on the evening of April 29, 2026, prompting an evacuation of the store and a response from local fire departments.

According to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, the alarm was raised shortly after 7:00 p.m. when 911 callers reported a fire at the Walmart located at 1000 E. Pulaski Highway in Elkton, Maryland. Emergency services, including the Singerly Fire Company and mutual aid from neighboring departments, were dispatched to the scene. Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze within minutes. Investigators determined that while the store was equipped with a sprinkler system, it did not activate as the fire’s intensity did not reach the necessary temperature threshold.

Investigators have concluded that the fire was deliberately set as a diversionary tactic. The suspect allegedly used camp fuel and fireworks, both reportedly taken from the store, to ignite a shelf stocked with boys’ clothing. During the ensuing evacuation, the individual is believed to have forced entry into the jewelry counter and stolen a quantity of merchandise. The estimated damages resulting from the incident are approximately $5,000.

The suspect is described as a white male in his early twenties. He was reportedly wearing a Jefferson University Baseball shirt, a mask, and a vest similar to those worn by Walmart employees. Following the incident, the suspect is said to have fled the store on a motorcycle that lacked a license plate. The Office of the State Fire Marshal is urging anyone with information regarding the identity or whereabouts of the suspect to contact them directly at 410-386-3050.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

---