Storm Lake, Iowa — An arrest has been made in the case of the suspicious package that was left at the Storm Lake Walmart. Authorities evacuated the store when a suspicious package was found near the propane exchange area last Wednesday night.
According to a press release from Storm Lake Police, 43-year-old Andrew Connor of Lakeside is accused of leaving the package at the store. He was arrested on Friday afternoon.
When the package was found Wednesday night, authorities evacuated the Walmart store. Bomb technicians with the Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office responded to the scene and ultimately determined the package was not hazardous.
Connor was alleged to have transported a case to Walmart by bicycle, placing the case by the propane exchange and announcing to pedestrians nearby it was a “mystery box.” He then allegedly rode away on his bicycle.
During the arrest, police say Connor physically resisted officers. They say he was subdued and taken into custody without further incident. Connor was allegedly found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and a small amount of methamphetamine. They tell us he was transported to the Buena Vista County Jail.
Connor was charged with threats of Terrorism, a Class D Felony. If convicted of that charge, Connor could face up to five years in prison. He also faces misdemeanor charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Interference with Official Acts, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
At last report, Connor remained in the Buena Vista County Jail in Storm Lake in lieu of a $5000 bond.
KIWA Staff Stock Photo
