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Dispute Over Man Possible Motive Behind Wal-Mart Bleach Attack

BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ)— The crime sparked headlines across the world. Now we have new details about a bleach attack this weekend at a Baltimore County Wal-Mart.

Kai Jackson has more on a possible motive.

The attack has been tied to a fight over a man and a Baltimore County woman is still locked up in jail.

"It's kinda scary," said one shopper.

Nineteen shoppers at a Wal-Mart were rushed to hospitals. The store was evacuated after a bleach attack Saturday. Police say Theresa Jefferson, 33, doused another woman with cleaning chemicals.

"The suspect followed the victim, followed her and approached her in the aisle where the cleaning products were and basically assaulted her with whatever she could get her hands on," said Shawn Vinson, Baltimore County Police.

The mixture of bleach and Pine Sol created a toxic cloud. At least one person suffered serious eye injuries. Others were affected by the fumes, triggering a hazmat response.

"We were getting a number of calls from inside the store, people suffering irritants to eye and respiratory passages," said Glenn Backwell, Baltimore County Fire Department.

Jefferson has a long rap sheet that includes charges of domestic violence, auto theft and drug possession.

"They were familiar with each other. There was an ongoing dispute between the two," Vinson said.

In a statement, Wal-Mart said they don't expect this type of behavior in their stores and they apologized for inconveniencing customers.

Jefferson faces charges of first- and second-degree assault. Her bail is $350,000. She has a court appearance scheduled for Tuesday.

Most of the 19 people who were injured complained of eye irritation or breathing problems.

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