Suspect who planted 2 explosives at Seminole Hard Rock Casino arrested

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – A man has been arrested following a joint investigation into explosives during last month’s evacuation of the Seminole Hard Rock Casino, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

On September 30, the casino was evacuated twice within a 12-hour period after suspicious devices were found in the men’s room. Police described it as a “crude concealed device with fireworks components.”

Seminole Hard Rock Casino Tampa was evacuated twice after suspicious devices were found, police say

Bryan Robert Eckley was identified as the suspect and arrested Wednesday. He has been charged with two counts of making, possessing, throwing and placing a destructive device with intent to cause harm, FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said.

He wore a mask, had cell phones and used an alias.

“He was very good, but we are better,” officials said.

Authorities said Eckley planted two remote-controlled explosives in the bathroom, which were discovered by an employee. After the discovery of the second device, the bomb squad secured the devices and guests were able to return to the casino.

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On September 25, the investigation revealed that Eckley was wandering around the casino in his white Ford, which he had purchased under an alias and paid for in cash. On September 27, he was arrested by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office for possession of a firearm.

The case will now be turned over to State’s Attorney Suzy Lopez. Officials said Eckley faces up to 30 years in Florida State Prison.

The FDLE was joined at Thursday morning’s press conference by the Seminole Police Department, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the State Attorney’s Office and the FBI Tampa Division.

WFLA livestreamed the conference at 11 a.m., which can be viewed in the video player above.

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