The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
An Illinois woman is facing a felony charge after she was accused of setting multiple fires inside a Walmart while the store was crowded with shoppers.
According to reports, the incident happened on New Year’s Eve at a Walmart in Woodstock. Investigators alleged that the woman entered the store during the early evening and went to the camping section, where she placed containers of camping fuel into a shopping cart. She allegedly went to the baby and infant section, returned to the camping aisle for additional fuel, and then went back to the same spot in the store.
Surveillance footage reportedly showed the suspect pouring liquid onto several baby cribs and using matches to ignite them before leaving the store. Employees quickly noticed the fire, and shoppers were evacuated as firefighters responded. The building’s sprinkler system activated and helped contain the flames in the back of the store.
Police later identified the suspect through a vehicle they believed was linked to the incident. Investigators also learned that the woman has a separate, pending arson case in Colorado and was on supervised release related to that matter at the time of the Illinois incident. Authorities have not said whether they believe the two cases are connected.
The woman was taken into custody on suspicion of aggravated arson, and a judge denied her pretrial release during a court hearing.
No injuries were reported, and a motive for the incident has not been disclosed. Store management estimated the fire caused millions of dollars in damage from destroyed merchandise and damage to the building. It was reported that the Walmart closed temporarily so the damages could be repaired.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.