Arrest After Confrontation at Home Depot
A Cutler Bay man was arrested Wednesday afternoon after allegedly making a false bomb threat at a Home Depot in southwest Miami Dade, police confirmed. According to Miami Dade Police, the incident unfolded at the store located at 11905 Southwest 152nd Street, just a few miles from Zoo Miami, when loss prevention employees confronted the man for shoplifting. Authorities said the suspect, later identified as 29-year-old Eduardo Arias, was stopped by store employees after attempting to steal items from the store. When approached, Arias allegedly made a disturbing comment: “Can you smell it? It’s going to blow.”
Store Evacuated and Bomb Squad Called
The threat prompted a full evacuation of the store and nearby businesses while the Miami Dade bomb squad was called to the scene to sweep the area. Shoppers and employees were ushered out as police blocked off entrances and deployed K-9 units to investigate. After an extensive search, police confirmed no explosive device was found. The threat was determined to be false, but officers said it caused significant disruption to the busy shopping area.
Facing Multiple Charges
Arias was taken into custody without further incident and booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. He faces charges including making a false report of a bomb, disorderly conduct, and petit theft. According to investigators, Arias appeared to be acting alone, and there is no ongoing threat to the public. Miami Dade Police say the case remains under investigation, and additional charges could be added depending on the findings.
Community Disruption and Police Response
The Home Depot was reopened later that afternoon after the all-clear was given. No injuries were reported, but the incident caused significant alarm in the area. In a statement to Local 10 News, Miami Dade Police emphasized that false bomb threats are taken extremely seriously, consuming law enforcement resources and creating unnecessary panic. Anyone found making such threats, officials said, will face felony charges and potential prison time
