A fire set inside a Maryland Walmart is now at the center of a multi-state criminal case, where investigators say flames and fireworks were used to clear aisles and create chaos for a targeted theft. The suspect, identified as a 36-year-old New Jersey man, is accused of igniting a blaze in a children’s section before making off with thousands of dollars in jewelry.
ELKTON, MD – Anthony J. Rhodes, 36, of New Jersey, has been charged with multiple offenses including first-degree arson and manufacturing an explosive device after authorities say he deliberately set a fire inside a Walmart Supercenter on East Pulaski Highway on the night of April 29. Investigators allege the fire was used as a diversion to facilitate a theft from the store’s jewelry counter.
Emergency crews responded around 7 p.m. after reports of a fire inside the store. The Singerly Fire Company and assisting departments extinguished the flames within minutes, but not before damage spread beyond the point of origin.
Fire and theft unfold inside store
According to the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal, Rhodes allegedly entered the store wearing a mask and carrying a backpack. Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators reportedly shows him using camping fuel and fireworks to ignite a shopping cart in the children’s clothing section.
As the fire intensified and fireworks discharged, customers and employees evacuated the building. During that window, authorities say Rhodes moved to the jewelry section and stole merchandise valued at approximately $10,000.
The initial fire caused an estimated $5,000 in direct damage, but Walmart later reported that smoke, soot, and cleanup efforts pushed total losses to nearly $10 million.
Investigators track suspect across state lines
Authorities said the suspect fled the scene on a motorcycle. A key piece of evidence came from clothing worn during the incident — specifically a Jefferson University baseball t-shirt. Investigators used that detail to help identify Rhodes, noting he has no known affiliation with the university or its athletic program.
“Working side-by-side with our ATF partners and Walmart Global Investigations, our team was able to identify a suspect quickly,” Acting State Fire Marshal Jason Mowbray said in a statement provided to the Daily Voice. “Investigations such as these require an all-hands approach, and I am proud of everyone who was able to bring this case to a close.”
Rhodes was arrested Thursday by Berlin Township Police in New Jersey on a warrant issued earlier this month. As of Friday, he remained held at the Camden County Correctional Facility pending extradition to Cecil County, Maryland.
Anthony Rhodes arrest, Walmart arson Maryland, Elkton Walmart fire, jewelry theft diversion, Maryland fire marshal investigation