July 4 Fireworks Prank Sparks Arson Charge

PALMETTO BAY, FL — A dangerous July 4 fireworks prank has landed a 24-year-old Miami man in some very hot water. Dorian G. Thomas is facing a charge of first-degree arson after being arrested in Los Angeles in connection with the incident at a Palmetto Bay Dollar Tree. The prank was caught on surveillance video and also posted to social media.

"On July 4, 2018, a male subject walked into the Dollar Tree, located at 13911 South Dixie Highway and ignited fireworks," explained Detective Chris Thomas of the Miami-Dade Police Department in announcing the arrest on Thursday.

Subscribe to Palmetto Bay Patch's free email news alerts and newsletters

"The subject did not act alone," according to the officer, who is not related to the suspect. "Another male stood by and recorded the incident, later to be posted on social media. The subject and his accomplice fled in an awaiting black Honda Accord."

First responders were not laughing. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue had to be called out to extinguish the fireworks that were left in the busy store.

"Through investigative means, detectives were able to identify the subject as Dorian G. Thomas, and obtained a warrant for his arrest," according to Miami-Dade police.

Thomas was to be extradited back to Miami-Dade County, where he was to also face a charge of criminal mischief involving $1,000 or more.

Watch video of the incident below courtesy Miami-Dade Police Department:

Police are still looking for the alleged accomplice who videotaped the incident.

To report a tip, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477) or 866-471-8477; Visit www.crimestoppersmiami.com and select “Give a Tip” or text CSMD followed by the tip information to 274637.

July 4 fireworks light up the sky over Bayside Marketplace. Image courtesy Bayside Marketplace.