Anderson, SC (Anderson Independent) - A stuffed animal was set on fire, presumably as a distraction so someone could steal a robotic vacuum, said Anderson Police Chief Jim Stewart.
Three days after what authorities believe to be an arson, the Walmart on State 28 Bypass reopened this morning.
The store was evacuated Monday, with no injuries, after a fire that began near the photography department.
The small fire was quickly contained by the sprinkler system, but that caused water damage and there was a lot of smoke.
Stewart said a man has been arrested and charged.
Michael Travis Robinson, 43, is charged with second degree arson.
According to a warrant, he set fire to an item in the store causing "extensive damage to the location with numerous people present."
These areas will be open, according to the store's Facebook page: "produce, bakery, deli, meat, dairy, grocery, pets, paper goods, and chemicals."
The investigation into the fire is ongoing and is being conducted by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division along with the Anderson Police Department and the Anderson Fire Department.
