Cleanup is underway at two metro Walmart locations after investigators said a suspect intentionally set fire to the stores early Thursday morning. No injuries were reported, but both stores suffered significant water and smoke damage.
“It’s closed,” one Walmart customer recalled an employee saying. Simone Cranfield and her friend arrived Thursday morning to shop, like many others, but found the store temporarily closed. “We came to get snacks,” Cranfield said, frustrated by the situation.
Details of the Fires
The first fire, set near Penn and Memorial in Oklahoma City, caused approximately $200,000 in damage, mostly from sprinkler systems. About 50 people were in the building at the time, thought to be employees, as the store was officially closed when the fire started.
A separate fire was set at a Walmart near Danforth and Santa Fe in Edmond shortly before 3 a.m. Employees at both stores continued working Thursday, though their duties were altered.
Many were stationed outside, turning customers away, which left some shoppers frustrated. “It sucks because we can’t have [things] because other people want to ruin it for us,” Cranfield said. “I hope he gets what he deserves.”
Investigation and Arrest
The Oklahoma City Fire Department confirmed that one person was taken into custody. “That person’s also been reported to have tried to start a fire in [Sam’s Club] just right next to us.
He got ran out of the store. He ended up coming up here and then successfully starting the fire,” said OKCFD Maj. Jeff Chappell.
Officials noted that sprinklers helped extinguish most of the fire, though cleanup for smoke and water damage remains ongoing. The Edmond Fire Department continues its investigation.
Walmart released a statement saying: “The safety of our associates and customers is a top priority.
We’re grateful for the swift action of first responders, and we will continue working closely with local law enforcement as they investigate.”
Suspect Profile
Investigators said the primary suspect in both cases is a juvenile male with a “long rap sheet.” Authorities plan to present charges to the District Attorney.
