Arson Suspect Arrested Following Violent Altercation at Calexico Walmart

CALEXICO, Calif. — A 38-year-old transient with a history of arson was arrested Saturday afternoon after allegedly attempting to set merchandise on fire inside the Calexico Walmart, according to a statement from the Calexico Police Department.

The incident occurred around 4:50 p.m. when officers responded to a reported disturbance at the store. Upon arrival, they were informed that the suspect, identified as Jessie Romero, had entered the business, retrieved a lighter from store shelves, and tried to ignite store items.

33-year-old “Jessie Romero” (now 38-years-old), Calexico Police Department photo, May 4 2020

Prior to entering Walmart, Romero had reportedly been removed from a separate business south of the store. Authorities confirmed that Romero is a registered arsonist with a previous conviction for setting fire to the former Burger King building in Calexico.

According to police, a Walmart employee confronted Romero before officers arrived. Romero allegedly assaulted the employee and attempted to stop them from calling 911. When officers made contact with the suspect, Romero reportedly became aggressive, violently resisting arrest and trying to disarm one of the officers by grabbing both their Taser and duty firearm.

Backup units were called in, and following a prolonged struggle, officers were able to subdue Romero and place him in handcuffs. Paramedics from the Calexico Fire Department provided initial medical assistance before Romero was transported to El Centro Regional Medical Center for medical clearance. He was later booked into the Imperial County Jail.

Romero faces several felony charges, including attempted arson, burglary, felony assault, and felony resisting arrest.

One officer sustained injuries during the altercation and is receiving treatment. The officer is expected to recover, police said.

“The Calexico Police Department commends the quick and courageous response of all employees and officers involved, whose actions prevented a potentially devastating fire and further harm to members of our community,” the department stated.