A man in Texas was arrested for setting off explosions in businesses by booby-trapping bathrooms with fireworks. Paul Moses Alden, 46, was taken into custody by the San Antonio Police Department on August 1 for the charge of “arson causing reckless damage – bodily injury.” He was released on $50,000 bond the same day.
According to reports, Alden placed fireworks under toilet seats in the restrooms of two car washes, causing injuries to individuals who sat down. The explosive devices were described as “pressure-activated” fireworks. Multiple people were hurt when the fireworks detonated, as mentioned in a police affidavit.
The first incident occurred on July 20 at The Wash Tub in Helotes, Texas, where a man was caught on surveillance camera entering a unisex bathroom before a small explosion took place, resulting in a woman getting injured. Six days later, another incident happened at a Wash Tub in San Antonio, where a girl and an employee suffered injuries from exploding devices attached to a toilet seat. Evidence of remnants from the fireworks was found in the bathroom.
Authorities stated that Alden was captured on security footage entering and leaving the bathrooms, as well as sitting in the lobby observing the bathroom door before the explosions occurred. Employees were able to identify him as a regular customer at the car wash, using his membership card.
The car wash chain spokesperson expressed gratitude for the swift action taken by the police and arson investigator in handling the case. They mentioned their willingness to cooperate fully with the police department and the district attorney’s office in the ongoing investigation.
This disturbing incident raises concerns about the safety and security of public facilities and serves as a reminder to remain vigilant in detecting potential threats. It is essential for businesses to implement strict security measures to prevent such dangerous acts from occurring in the future. The impact of these reckless actions can cause harm to innocent individuals and disrupt the peace and well-being of the community.
