Man Sought for Placing Incendiary Devices at Capitol Heights, MD, Fire Station

While others were inert, the latest could have caused injuries, Assistant Prince George's County Fire Chief James McCreary said.
Aug. 28, 2025

A man who has been leaving incendiary devices outside the Capitol Heights fire station is being sought by Prince George’s County Police.

The suspect, who has been leaving the items for the past three months, was finally captured on video during a recent visit, WJLA reported.

“The initial devices were inert. But they seem to be progressing. The last device that we had at this location could have been something potentially that would have harmed someone if it was able to be activated. So we definitely want the public to know that," Prince George's County Assistant Fire Chief James McCreary said during a press conference Wednesday. 

"God forbid one of our young people get a hold of one of these devices and become harmed. That is the last thing that we need on our conscience in Prince George's County.”

While no specific motive has been determined, ATF Special Agent Charles Doerrer has a theory.

“I mean, the way I see it he was trying to intimidate the people that work here. And that's why we think it's a great threat,” he said.

Authorities are hoping someone will recognize the man, who was wearing a colorful jacket with the cartoon characters Tom and Jerry.

About the Author

Susan Nicol

News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues. 

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