Paul Moses Alden, a 46-year-old man from San Antonio, Texas, was arrested and charged with “arson causing reckless damage – bodily injury” for allegedly booby-trapping toilets in local businesses with “pressure-activated” fireworks. Numerous people reported minor injuries as a result of the explosive devices detonating when they sat down on the toilet seats.
The first incident was reported at a car wash in Helotes, Texas, where a woman was injured in the explosion. A few days later, a little girl and an employee at a San Antonio car wash also fell victim to the exploding devices. Security cameras caught Alden entering and leaving the bathrooms and sitting in the lobbies of the businesses, watching the bathroom door and leaving after the explosions occurred. Employees were able to identify Alden as a “regular customer” because he used a membership card.
Alden was released from jail on a $50,000 bond and is currently awaiting indictment. A Wash Tub spokesman expressed gratitude for the quick action of the San Antonio Police Department and the arson investigator, pledging full cooperation with the investigation. The motive behind Alden’s alleged actions remains unclear, and the impact of his actions on the businesses and individuals affected is significant.
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