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

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

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

Bryan Robert Eckley, 46, of Tampa, was identified as the suspect and arrested Wednesday. He has been charged with two counts of making, possessing, throwing, projecting, placing or discharging a destructive device with intent to cause harm, FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said.

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

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

Authorities said Eckley placed two radio-controlled explosive devices inside the bathroom, which were discovered by an employee. Following the discovery of the second device, the bomb squad made the devices safe and guests were able to return to the casino.

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“Eckley did everything he could to hide from authorities,” said FDLE Tampa Bay Special Agent in Charge Mark Brutnell. “But thanks to the exceptional work of this forensic and investigative team, he will be held accountable for his actions.”

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

Eckley is currently being held at the Hillsborough County Jail.

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The case is now being turned over to State Attorney Suzy Lopez. Authorities said Eckley faces up to 30 years in prison in Florida State Prison.

This remains an active investigation.

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

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

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