Man arrested after fireworks prompt evacuation from Apple Cinemas in Warwick

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — Warwick police said they arrested a man after fireworks were mistaken for gunfire, prompting the evacuation of the Apple Cinemas on Bald Hill Road.

Warwick’s Chief of Police, Bradford Connor told ABC 6 News that police found 27-year-old Justin Crespo in the area of the movie theatre shortly after investigating.

Police say Crespo admitted to setting off fireworks in the area. Investigators say they later found those spent fireworks against an exterior wall of the movie theatre.

Crespo was arrested and charged with possession of display and aerial consumer fireworks. He was released pending a court date.

Warwick police said calls initially came in around 7:52 p.m., Saturday, reporting possible gunfire at the Apple Cinemas.

The theatre was evacuated out of precaution and business returned to normal around 8:30 p.m.

Police say nobody was injured and no shots were fired during the incident.