A McAllen resident, Daniel Eduardo Rivera, aged 36, has been charged with arson and possession of a destructive device. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Rivera is scheduled to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge J. Scott Hacker at 9:00 a.m.

The criminal complaint alleges that Rivera has been targeting an individual since 2022 by setting fires to the victim’s residence and vehicles. In November 2022, fire department officials responded to two separate incidents at the victim's home on the same day. A fire originating from a storage shed was extinguished early in the morning but was determined to be incendiary in nature. Later that afternoon, another fire engulfed the porch and seeped into the home, causing significant damage before it was put out. A Molotov cocktail was found at the scene.

According to the victim, Rivera allegedly confronted him with threats against his family and property.

Further allegations in May 2024 link Rivera to a vehicle fire in McAllen where another Molotov cocktail was reportedly used.

If convicted of these charges, Rivera could face up to 20 years for arson and an additional maximum of 10 years for possession of a destructive device.

The investigation is being led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with support from local McAllen authorities including the Fire Marshal’s Office as well as Fire and Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lee Fry and Devin V. Walker are handling prosecution duties.

It is important to note that a criminal complaint serves as an accusation rather than evidence; defendants remain presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process.