LA PLATA, Md. — A Faulkner man is facing charges after allegedly threatening to burn down a Charles County liquor store while intoxicated, according to court documents.
Michael Allen Reed, 45, of Faulkner, has been charged with making an arson threat in connection to an incident that occurred on May 6, 2025, in La Plata.
According to charging documents, officers responded to Vino’s Liquors on Drury Drive for a report of a disorderly patron who was allegedly threatening to “shoot the bar up and burn the bar down.”
Investigators say Reed had become intoxicated and began threatening customers and staff inside the business. The bar manager told police Reed was asked multiple times to leave but refused and continued using profanity while making threats.
Witnesses reported Reed claimed the business belonged to him and warned employees they would be fired. He also allegedly threatened to shoot up the establishment and burn it down, prompting concern from staff and patrons.
Multiple employees and patrons witnessed the incident, and video evidence was later collected showing Reed arguing with staff and customers. Authorities noted Reed appeared highly intoxicated during the encounter.
Charging documents indicate the incident took place at Vino’s Liquors in La Plata, where several individuals were present at the time. No injuries were reported.
A summons was issued on March 19, 2026, and later served on March 25, 2026.
A preliminary inquiry hearing is set for May 4, 2026, in Charles District Court.
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