Man Arrested for Allegedly Throwing 2 Molotov Cocktails at Hollywood Restaurant
A Hollywood man, Chiu Lee Moy, 59, was arrested on Wednesday, charged with second-degree arson and throwing an explosive after allegedly targeting a local business with Molotov cocktails on two separate occasions. The attacks, which took place at The Broadwalk Restaurant, have left the community rattled and questioning the suspect’s motives.
First Attack: June Incident Causes Minor Damage
The first incident occurred on June 24 at around 4:50 a.m. According to a police report, which has been heavily redacted, Moy is accused of throwing a Molotov cocktail made from a glass Bud Light bottle at the back of The Broadwalk Restaurant. The owner of the restaurant discovered the damage later that morning and contacted the police. The fire, which was quickly extinguished, caused minor damage to a yellow mop bucket and a small pipe near the west door of the business. Despite the relatively minor damage in the June attack, the incident raised concerns among restaurant staff and authorities. Investigators began searching for leads, but the motive behind the attack remained unclear at the time.
Second Attack: Suspect Returns in August
Less than two months later, on August 13, Moy allegedly returned to the same restaurant and launched a second attack. This time, he again used a glass Bud Light bottle filled with flammable liquid, hurling the makeshift Molotov cocktail at the back of The Broadwalk Restaurant. While details of the damages from the second attack were not immediately available, the repetition of the crime raised alarm among investigators. The second attack solidified suspicions about Moy’s involvement, and authorities ramped up their efforts to track him down. Surveillance footage, data from Moy’s cellphone, and license plate information all contributed to the case against him.
Surveillance and Evidence Lead to Arrest
Law enforcement officials relied on video surveillance and digital evidence to connect Moy to the two attacks. His cellphone records, license plate data, and a similar method of operation (motis operandi) between the two incidents gave investigators enough probable cause to arrest him. The police report also revealed another Molotov cocktail had been thrown at a residence just one block from Moy’s home, though he is not currently facing charges for that incident.
Moy is now facing serious charges of second-degree arson and throwing an explosive, offenses that could lead to significant prison time if he is convicted. As the investigation continues, the Hollywood community remains on edge, particularly the staff and patrons of The Broadwalk Restaurant. While authorities have not yet revealed a potential motive for the attacks, Moy’s arrest has provided some relief to the local business community. The incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and the role of modern technology in solving crimes.
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