York, Nebraska – Authorities in Nebraska say a young man deliberately set a fire inside a Walmart even as the store was crowded with customers and employees. The blaze forced an evacuation and caused significant merchandise losses before firefighters brought the situation under control. According to investigators, the suspect openly admitted he knew people were inside when he ignited the flames.
Incident Overview
Police identified the suspect as 20-year-old William Eckman, who now faces first-degree arson, terroristic threats, and criminal mischief over $5,000. The incident unfolded on Sunday just before noon at the Walmart in York. Officers were dispatched after a 911 operator reported that a man was claiming responsibility for a fire inside the store. Authorities say that man was Eckman, who remained on the property even as evacuations were underway.
According to officials, the store was immediately evacuated as smoke began filling parts of the building. Staff and customers were rushed out as York Fire and Rescue crews worked to contain the flames and prevent the blaze from spreading to other aisles and structural areas.
Timeline of Events
Police responded to the Walmart shortly before midday after receiving a call from dispatch advising them that someone on the scene had confessed to starting a fire. Upon arrival, officers found store employees and shoppers gathered in the parking lot following an emergency evacuation.
Eckman was located moments later behind the store near a row of dumpsters. He was taken into custody without further incident. Investigators say he showed no signs of attempting to flee and instead continued acknowledging his involvement.
Details from Police & Suspect’s Statement
During an interview with law enforcement, Eckman allegedly admitted that he knew customers and staff were inside before he set the blaze. Authorities say he indicated that he even took their locations into consideration when deciding where to ignite the fire.
In their report, investigators noted that Eckman mentioned specific details about the flames that only someone who had directly observed the fire would know.
“He provided information about the fire scene that matched what responders witnessed,” officials said in their statement.
Police estimate the fire destroyed nearly $15,000 worth of merchandise, though the figure does not include damage to the building itself. Cleanup operations continued for days as the company assessed the extent of structural and smoke-related damage.
Key Facts & Charges
- Suspect: William Eckman, 20
- Charges: First-degree arson, terroristic threats, criminal mischief over $5,000
- Estimated merchandise loss: Approximately $15,000
- Location: Walmart, York, Nebraska
- Arrest location: Near dumpsters on the property
- Bond: $2,500
- Court status: First appearance held Wednesday
Community Response & Public Safety Concerns
After the arrest, law enforcement urged community members to come forward with any additional information about Eckman or the moments leading up to the fire. York residents expressed shock at how quickly the situation escalated, especially given how busy the store typically is on weekends.
Incidents of intentionally set fires in public spaces raise significant safety concerns. Fire officials regularly caution the public that even small fires inside commercial buildings can spread rapidly due to merchandise, packaging materials, and ventilation systems. In a store as large as Walmart, visibility can also drop within seconds, increasing the risk to shoppers and first responders.
Additional Context
Arson cases in large retail spaces are particularly dangerous because stores are filled with flammable items such as clothing, plastics, and cardboard. Authorities emphasize that intentional fires put not only property at risk but also lives. Situations like this highlight the importance of quick evacuations, fire alarm systems, and vigilant staff who recognize early signs of danger.
York, a community located about 50 miles west of Lincoln, has a population familiar with strong public safety protocols. Local officials praised Walmart employees and customers for responding swiftly when evacuation orders were issued.
Case Status & Store Reopening
Eckman was booked into the York County Jail and appeared in court on Wednesday, where a $2,500 bond was set. Meanwhile, the Walmart store underwent cleanup and safety inspections before reopening midweek.
Conclusion
The investigation into the blaze remains active as authorities review surveillance footage and collect witness statements. The community is grateful that no injuries were reported despite the store being full at the time of the fire.
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