38-Year-Old Man Arrested After Attempted Arson and Violent Confrontation at Calexico Walmart

CALEXICO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY)— The Calexico Police Department (CPD) has announced the arrest of a 38-year-old man in connection with a violent disturbance at the Walmart store located within city limits on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The suspect has been charged with attempted arson, assault, and resisting arrest after an alarming incident that unfolded in the store just before 5:00 p.m.

According to the CPD, the suspect entered the Walmart and, using a lighter he obtained from the shelves, attempted to ignite store merchandise. This alarming act of attempted arson was immediately noticed by store employees, who intervened in an effort to prevent further damage. However, the situation quickly escalated when the suspect became combative.

A Violent Confrontation

The CPD reports that the suspect was previously removed from another business located south of the Walmart prior to the incident. It is unclear whether this prior disturbance was related to his behavior at Walmart, but it appears the man was already in an agitated state when he entered the store.

Once inside, the suspect was confronted by a Walmart employee who attempted to stop him from causing further harm. However, in a violent outburst, the suspect assaulted the employee, physically preventing them from calling 911. According to CPD, the suspect’s aggression did not subside as he continued to resist.

When officers arrived at the scene, they found the suspect still engaged in violent behavior. CPD states that the suspect displayed “continued aggressive behavior” and actively fought with officers as they tried to apprehend him. The altercation escalated to a dangerous level when the suspect attempted to disarm one of the officers, reaching for both the taser and firearm on the officer’s belt.

The Arrest and Aftermath

The situation was deemed high-risk, and additional police units were called to assist in subduing the suspect. After a brief but intense struggle, officers were able to restrain and arrest the individual. Fortunately, no officers were seriously injured during the altercation, although the employee who initially confronted the suspect sustained minor injuries during the assault. The employee received medical attention on-site and was later released.

The suspect was transported to the Imperial County Jail, where he is being held on multiple charges, including attempted arson, assault with a deadly weapon (the lighter), and resisting arrest with violence. At the time of his arrest, authorities did not release the suspect’s name pending further investigation. The Calexico Police Department has stated that the case remains under active investigation.

Community Reactions and Concerns

The violent outburst at Walmart left many in the local community shaken, with several customers and witnesses expressing their concerns about the increasingly violent nature of such incidents. Walmart shoppers described the scene as chaotic, with many rushing to exit the store upon hearing the commotion.

“I was in the checkout line when we heard shouting, and then there was this loud crash. People started running, and the store was filled with panic,” said one witness who preferred to remain anonymous. “It’s scary to think something like this could happen in a place that’s supposed to be safe for shopping.”

The employee who intervened was praised for their bravery in confronting the suspect, despite the dangerous situation. “It’s incredible how quickly they acted,” said another witness. “That person helped stop what could have been a much worse situation.”

The Calexico Police Department has assured the community that the situation was handled as swiftly and safely as possible and that the suspect will be held accountable for his actions. “This was a serious and potentially devastating situation that was quickly contained thanks to the quick response of our officers and the vigilant employee who first confronted the suspect,” said CPD spokesperson Officer Carla Martinez.

Authorities Investigate Motive

At this time, authorities are still working to determine the motive behind the attempted arson and the suspect’s violent behavior. Investigators are looking into whether the suspect had any prior interactions with law enforcement or whether there may have been underlying factors that led to the escalation of the situation. It is also unclear whether the suspect intended to set a larger fire or was simply acting out of anger or distress.

“Right now, we are focusing on gathering all the details of this case,” Officer Martinez said. “Our priority is ensuring that justice is served and that this does not happen again.”

As the investigation continues, CPD is also reviewing store security footage and interviewing additional witnesses to piece together the full sequence of events. Authorities are urging anyone with further information to come forward and assist with the investigation.

Community Support and Safety Measures

In response to the disturbing incident, Walmart management has assured the public that they are cooperating fully with the authorities and have increased security measures at their Calexico location. The company expressed gratitude to the employee who bravely confronted the suspect and said that their thoughts are with the employee who was injured during the altercation.

The Calexico community has rallied around those affected by the incident, with local groups and residents offering support to the Walmart staff and shoppers who were traumatized by the event. Many expressed relief that the situation did not result in more serious injuries or fatalities.

In light of the recent violent incidents in the area, local law enforcement agencies, including the Calexico Police Department, are urging residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behavior immediately. Community safety and public awareness have become key points of focus for local law enforcement, especially as tensions surrounding incidents like this continue to rise.

Conclusion

The arrest of the 38-year-old suspect marks the end of a tense and violent episode that could have ended far worse. As the Calexico Police Department continues its investigation, the community is left to reflect on the unsettling reality of the disturbance, and authorities are working hard to ensure the safety of the public and the accountability of those who engage in such reckless behavior.

As always, local residents are encouraged to remain alert, and anyone with information relevant to the case is urged to come forward to help bring clarity and closure to this frightening episode.