Authorities are asking for the public’s help identifying a suspect accused of setting a fire inside a Walmart in Elkton as a distraction to carry out a theft.

According to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, the incident happened Wednesday evening (April 29) just after 7:00 PM at the Walmart located on Pulaski Highway.

Investigators say the suspect intentionally started a fire in the boys’ clothing section using camp fuel and fireworks taken from inside the store. The fire prompted an evacuation of customers and employees.

While the building was being cleared, the suspect allegedly broke into a jewelry counter and stole a small amount of merchandise before fleeing the scene.

Fire crews responded quickly and extinguished the fire within minutes. Sprinklers did not activate because the fire did not reach the necessary temperature.

The suspect is described as a white male in his early 20s, wearing a Jefferson University baseball shirt, a mask, and a Walmart-style vest. He was last seen leaving the area on a motorcycle without a license plate.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office at 410-386-3050.