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A 10-year-old has been accused of causing millions of dollars in damage after a blaze broke out inside a Walmart, forcing panicked shoppers and staff to flee.
The massive fire triggered the store’s sprinkler system and sent thick smoke billowing through the aisles.
It happened Monday night at a Walmart in Franklin, a city just south of Milwaukee in Wisconsin.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene shortly before 9 pm following reports of a fire near the west end of the building.
When officers arrived, heavy smoke and flames were already visible from inside.
The store was quickly evacuated as the fire continued to spread.
Firefighters worked to contain the blaze while the store’s automatic sprinkler system helped slow the damage.
Crews said the system played a key role in limiting the fire’s growth and reducing smoke.
No injuries were reported.
Still, the damage was extensive.
The interior of the store suffered major smoke and fire damage, officials said, ABC affiliate WISN reported.
Franklin Fire Department said several million dollars’ worth of merchandise was destroyed.
The building will remain closed until a full safety and damage assessment has been completed.
Police have taken a 10-year-old boy from Milwaukee into custody for questioning.
Investigators believe the fire began in the greeting card aisle.
Authorities said arson charges will be referred to the Milwaukee County Juvenile Justice Center because the suspect is a minor.
Walmart shoplifting arrests
- Ashley Cross was caught on security cameras using an old watch battery barcode to scan expensive products for just $1
- Ex-officer Mark Leenerts stole $317.88 worth of merchandise from Walmart stores in Topeka, Kansas
- Jeremiah Boyer raked in $52,800 in fees on 874 orders while working for Walmart’s online delivery service Spark
- Brent Adam Brooks, of Sylva, North Carolina, was arrested after trying to steal a $198 Frigidaire ice maker
- Kabreshia Caldwell targeted innocent senior citizen customers at Walmart stores across Northeast Florida, stealing a total of $10,000
- Katherine Gordon allegedly stole $80 worth of groceries by replacing barcodes on certain produce items
His name has not been released due to his age.
Meanwhile, back in May, a 12-year-old boy pleaded guilty to setting a fire that forced the evacuation of a Walmart in Lancaster, South Carolina, Queen City reported.
Firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control within ten minutes.
No injuries were reported, but the boy, who is believed to have mental health issues, remained in custody for a court-ordered mental evaluation.
He admitted to second-degree arson and will undergo assessment before his sentencing.
Officials handling the case said more mental health resources are needed to support kids before they run into trouble.
