TAMPA, Florida (WWSB/Gray News ) – Officials have arrested a man accused of planting explosive devices at a casino, prompting evacuations.

The Seminole Hard Rock Tampa casino was evacuated twice in a 12-hour span on September 30 after two explosive devices were found in the men’s bathroom.

Officials with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement arrested 46-year-old Bryan Robert Eckley in connection with the incident.

Officials reported that Eckley had hidden two radio-controlled explosive devices in two restrooms at a local casino. Employees found the devices before they could cause damage.

Investigators determined that Eckley was their suspect through interviews, surveillance and analytical work.

Days before he planted the explosive devices, Eckley was arrested by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in an unrelated aggravated assault case. Forensic analysts linked evidence from that case to the devices.

Eckley was arrested on Oct. 30 and booked into the Hillsborough County Jail. The State Attorney’s Office, 13th Judicial Circuit will prosecute the case.

The investigation remains active. Eckley is currently being held in the Hillsborough County Jail.

Copyright 2024 WWSB by Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.