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Jul 07, 2023

Suspects Arrested for Setting Fire Inside Louisiana Walmart

Authorities are currently searching for two male suspects who allegedly ignited

Authorities are currently searching for two male suspects who allegedly ignited a fire within a Louisiana Walmart store.

Just a few hours after requesting help from the public to find and identify two individuals believed to be involved in a fire that occurred in a crowded store in Covington, both suspects have been apprehended. The two boys, aged 17 and 15, who are residents of Covington, have been taken into custody and are now being held at the Florida Parishes Juvenile Detention Center.

According to the Louisiana State Fire Marshal's Office and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Department, they are facing multiple charges, including Aggravated Arson, Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Arson, and Manufacture and Possession of a Delayed Action Incendiary Device.

The incident, which occurred on Sunday, June 4, around 8:15 p.m. at a Walmart located on Hwy. 190 in Covington, resulted in significant damage to the automotive section, leaving an aisle of products charred.

Eyewitnesses reported that the store's sprinkler system was triggered, causing water to drench various products throughout the establishment. Fortunately, prompt evacuation measures were implemented, ensuring the safety of approximately 200 customers who were inside the store at the time of the incident. No injuries have been reported.

The State Fire Marshal (SFM) has released a photograph capturing the two suspects believed to be responsible for the arson attack. After setting the fire, the culprits swiftly departed the scene in a small, dark-colored SUV, heading north on Hwy. 190. Authorities urge anyone with relevant information about the incident or the suspects to contact the SFM's hotline at 1-844-954-1221 or visit their website at lasfm.org.

In response to the fire, Walmart officials have decided to temporarily close the Covington store until further notice. The closure will allow time for the cleanup and restoration of the affected areas. Meanwhile, customers are encouraged to visit nearby Walmart locations for their shopping needs.

The Covington community remains on high alert as authorities work diligently to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for this dangerous act. Law enforcement agencies are coordinating efforts to ensure the swift resolution of this case and to bring those responsible to justice.