A Nebraska Walmart was the scene of a dangerous arson incident, as a man confessed to igniting a fire while the store was bustling with customers and employees, according to law enforcement. The suspect, 20-year-old William Eckman, is facing charges of first-degree arson, terroristic threats, and criminal mischief resulting in damages exceeding $5,000, as reported by several local media outlets, including a CBS affiliate in Lincoln.
The incident occurred on a Sunday, just before midday. The York Police Department received a call about a fire at the local Walmart. The 911 dispatcher reportedly informed the responding officers that a man was confessing to starting the fire. The man in question was later identified as Eckman.
The store had to be promptly evacuated and temporarily closed due to the fire. Eckman was found near the store’s dumpsters and was subsequently arrested by the police. During his interview with law enforcement, Eckman allegedly admitted to being aware of the presence of people inside the store when he started the fire. He reportedly took into account the locations of the shoppers when he ignited the blaze, as reported by a local ABC affiliate.
Authorities noted that Eckman provided details about the fire that could only be known by someone who had witnessed it. The fire resulted in the destruction of nearly $15,000 worth of merchandise, as per police reports. This figure does not include the damages to the store’s infrastructure.
Law enforcement has requested the public to share any information they might have about Eckman or the circumstances leading up to the fire. The store was able to reopen its doors to customers on the following Wednesday.
Eckman was taken into custody at the York County Jail, with his bond set at $2,500. He made his first court appearance on the same day the store reopened. York is situated in the eastern region of Nebraska, approximately 50 miles west of Lincoln.