A Nebraska-based Walmart recently became the site of a perilous arson attack when a man admitted to setting a fire while the store was filled with customers and staff, according to local law enforcement. The accused, identified as 20-year-old William Eckman, is now facing charges of first-degree arson, terroristic threats, and criminal mischief, with damages surpassing $5,000, as per local news reports.
The incident took place on a Sunday, just before noon. The York Police Department received a distress call about a fire at the local Walmart. The 911 dispatcher reportedly informed the responding officers that a man was admitting to starting the fire. The man was later identified as Eckman.
Due to the fire, the store had to be immediately evacuated and temporarily shut down. Eckman was discovered near the store’s dumpsters and was subsequently apprehended by the police. During his interaction with law enforcement, Eckman allegedly confessed to being aware of the presence of people inside the store when he ignited the fire. He reportedly considered the locations of the shoppers when he set the fire, as per local news reports.
Authorities highlighted that Eckman provided details about the fire that could only be known by someone who had witnessed it. The fire led to the destruction of nearly $15,000 worth of merchandise, according to police reports. This figure does not include the damages to the store’s infrastructure.
Law enforcement has appealed to the public to share any information they might have about Eckman or the circumstances leading up to the fire. The store was able to resume operations and welcome 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 located in the eastern region of Nebraska, approximately 50 miles west of Lincoln.