TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A man was arrested following a joint explosive device investigation from last month’s Seminole Hard Rock Casino evacuation, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
On Sept. 30, the casino was evacuated twice within a 12-hour period after suspicious devices were found in the men’s bathroom. Police described it as a “crude concealed device with firework components.”
Seminole Hard Rock Casino Tampa evacuated twice after suspicious devices found, police say
Bryan Robert Eckley was identified as the suspect and was arrested on Wednesday. He has been charged with two counts of making, possessing, throwing and placing a destructive device with the intent to cause harm, FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said.
He wore a mask, had burner cell phones, and used an alias.
“He was very good, but we’re better, ” officials said.
Authorities said Eckley placed two remote-controlled explosive devices inside the bathroom, which were discovered by an employee. Following the discovery of the second device, the bomb squad rendered the devices safe and guests were free to return to the casino.