Man accused of planting explosive devices at a casino

TAMPA, Fla. ( WWSB /Gray News) - Officials arrested a man accused of planting explosive devices in a casino, prompting evacuations.

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

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

Officials reported Eckley hid two radio-controlled explosive devices inside two restrooms in a local casino. Employees found the devices before they could cause damage.

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

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

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

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