A 27-year-old man, Charles Smith, has been arrested after pulling a dangerous stunt at a Walmart in Mesa, Arizona. Authorities say Smith filmed himself spraying pesticide on food items, posting the footage online as part of a social media prank.
The incident occurred on Dec. 19 at the Walmart located at 1955 S. Stapley Dr. According to police, Smith entered the store with the intent of creating viral content. He grabbed a can of Hot Shot Ultra Bed Bug and Flea Killer from a shelf without purchasing it and sprayed the pesticide on various items, including fresh produce, fruit, and rotisserie chickens, all while recording his actions.
The footage reportedly showed Smith’s face, the pesticide can, and the act itself. The video was later uploaded to social media, where it drew immediate backlash for its reckless and dangerous nature.
Smith turned himself in after being identified and admitted to both stealing the pesticide and contaminating the food. He now faces serious legal consequences, including the following charges:
•Introducing Poison (Class 6 Felony)
•Criminal Damage (Class 1 Misdemeanor)
•Endangerment (Class 1 Misdemeanor)
•Theft (Class 1 Misdemeanor)
The contaminated food had to be removed from the shelves, and the act caused significant concern among shoppers and the store’s management. Authorities are urging people to think about the real-world consequences of social media stunts that endanger public safety.
