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Man caught on video placing incendiary devices outside Md. firehouse

Officials say one of the three homemade incendiary devices found near Capitol Heights Fire Station 805 could have exploded

CAPITOL HEIGHTS, Md. — Police in Prince George’s County are investigating a series of homemade incendiary devices left near Capitol Heights Fire Station 805, including one that police say was capable of detonating.

Surveillance video shows a man with a package placing two plastic bottles, apparently filled with liquid, at the base of a flagpole on Aug. 13, WUSA reported. He then moves one bottle a few feet away, returns to the flagpole, retrieves the other, and slips it into a nearby mailbox, leaving the door open. He then walks off carrying the package.

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Assistant Fire Chief Carroll Spriggs and Homeland Security Deputy Chief James McCreary said three devices have been discovered in the past three months. The first two were inert, McCreary noted, but the third was capable of detonating. Spriggs believes the event is isolated.

ATF Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer said the device resembled an ignitable Molotov cocktail, while Spriggs noted there have been no threats against the department.

Police are working to identify the man. Anyone with information or who can identify the individual is urged to contact Crime Solvers at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, through the P3 Tips mobile app, or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). A reward of up to $7,500 is being offered for tips leading to an arrest and indictment.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.