Texas man allegedly hid explosives underneath toilets at local businesses that detonated when victims sat down
An explosive prank against unsuspecting car wash customers in the area is allegedly the reason behind the arrest of a Texas man. Two women and a young girl suffered injuries as a result of the bold plan.
Helotes resident Paul Moses Alden, 46, is charged with hiding explosive devices under toilet seats at three different car wash locations in the San Antonio region. Law enforcement claims that Alden placed small commercial fireworks covertly, which are intended to explode when pressure is applied, and then stayed around to see what happened.
The first incident happened at the Helotes car wash, Wash Tub, on July 20. A female customer was slightly hurt in an explosion that happened shortly after Alden was seen on camera entering and leaving the gender-neutral restroom. Sadly, the victim left before calling the police to report what had happened.
A similar incident occurred at another Wash Tub location in San Antonio just six days later. While using the restroom, separate explosions injured an employee and a small girl.
At both crime scenes, law enforcement found evidence of the explosive devices. Security camera footage disturbingly exposed Alden’s methodical approach. He was seen going in and out of the restrooms and then standing patiently in the lobby with his eyes fixed on the bathroom door. As soon as the explosives went off, he quickly left.
Alden was easily recognized by the car wash staff as a regular customer thanks to his membership card. Further proof of his involvement came from video footage of his car and license plate.
A Wash Tub representative responded to the horrific acts by expressing gratitude for the San Antonio Police Department’s and the arson investigator’s prompt action. According to an arrest affidavit, the establishment promised to continue working with the District Attorney’s office and law enforcement, KENS5 reported.
Alden is charged with arson for intentionally causing property damage and bodily harm. On the day of his arrest, he was freed from custody despite posting a $50,000 bond. Authorities expect an indictment as the investigation moves forward.
Fire and police officials in San Antonio are working hard to find out more information about these unsettling incidents.
