Several people injured after man hides explosives under toilet seats in restrooms, police say

SAN ANTONIO - A Helotes area man has been released from jail after being charged with setting explosive booby traps in bathrooms at local businesses, causing injuries. Paul Moses Alden, 46, is accused of orchestrating three separate explosive attacks. According to court documents, Alden allegedly planted devices in the bathrooms of local businesses that detonated when pressure was applied, causing minor injuries to several people. The first incident was reported on July 20 at the Wash Tub on Bandera Road in Helotes. Surveillance footage captured a man entering a unisex bathroom, and moments later, a small explosion occurred when another person used the facility. A woman was reportedly injured but left the scene before filing a report. Six days later, two more victims were injured at another Wash Tub location in San Antonio, near Loop 1604 and Highway 281. An employee was injured when she sat on the toilet, followed by a similar incident involving a little girl. Detectives noted that physical evidence from both scenes matched, including remains of small commercial fireworks designed to explode under pressure. In all cases, security cameras recorded Alden entering and leaving the bathrooms, sitting in the lobby observing the bathroom door, and then leaving after the explosions. Employees identified Alden as a regular customer who used a membership card, and they provided video footage of his vehicle and license plate. The Wash Tub released a statement expressing their satisfaction with the swift action of the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) and the arson investigator handling the case. "We are very pleased with the quick action of SAPD and the arson investigator working this case. We will continue to fully cooperate with SAPD and the District Attorney's office," said a spokesman. Alden has been charged with arson causing reckless damage or bodily injury. His bond was set at $50,000, and he was released the same day he was arrested. Court records show that Alden is awaiting indictment, and a court date has not yet been scheduled for his next hearing. Both fire and police departments have indicated that the investigation is ongoing.