A man in Texas is accused of a dangerous and disturbing prank that caused injuries to innocent victims. Paul Moses Alden, 46, allegedly placed explosive devices under toilet seats in bathrooms at two local car washes in the San Antonio area. The explosives were made from small commercial fireworks that detonated when pressure was applied.
The first incident occurred at a car wash on Bandera Road in Helotes, where Alden’s hometown is located. Security camera footage showed Alden entering a unisex bathroom and leaving shortly before a woman was injured by an explosion. The victim suffered minor injuries and left before a police report could be filed.
Six days later, two more victims were injured at another Wash Tub location in San Antonio. A female employee and a young girl were hurt in separate incidents when the explosives detonated while they were using the restroom. Police found physical evidence of the small fireworks at both scenes.
Alden was easily identified as the suspect by car wash employees who recognized him as a regular customer with a membership card. Security footage showed him entering and leaving the bathrooms before patiently waiting for the explosions to occur. After the devices detonated, he left the scene.
The Wash Tub spokesperson expressed gratitude for the swift action of the San Antonio Police Department and the arson investigator. They are fully cooperating with the authorities in the ongoing investigation. Alden has been charged with arson causing reckless damage or bodily injury, and his bond was set at $50,000. He was released on bail the same day as his arrest and is awaiting indictment.
The incidents involving explosive devices in public restrooms are a serious threat to public safety. Such reckless and malicious actions can cause harm to innocent people and create a sense of fear and unease in the community. It is essential for law enforcement officials to thoroughly investigate these incidents and hold the perpetrators accountable for their dangerous behavior.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to gather more evidence and information to build a strong case against Alden. The safety and well-being of the public are of utmost importance, and measures must be taken to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. Public awareness and vigilance are crucial in identifying and reporting suspicious activities to prevent potential harm to individuals and property.
