Man Sprays Moviegoers With Fire Extinguisher: Novato Police

NOVATO, CA — A man was arrested Wednesday after allegedly spraying a movie theater audience with a fire extinguisher in Novato.

The incident happened at Century Rowland Plaza at 44 Rowland Way. The suspect left the area, but witnesses called police and provided a description of the red Mustang. Police found a matching vehicle and its driver nearby at Novato Community Hospital.

Joshua Quinn Meade, 18, of Fairfield, was booked into Marin County Jail on suspicion of battery, vandalism, releasing a gaseous substance in a theater and disturbing the peace, police said.

"At this point in the investigation, it is not believed that Meade targeted the theater or patrons specifically," police said in a press release. "Although medical assistance was requested to the scene, no victims or witnesses reported they were injured nor did they seek medical attention while at the theater."

Police believe that a second person was involved in the incident and encouraged Meade to set off the extinguisher.

"We're grateful for the positive outcome of this investigation and that no injuries were reported," police said. "The Novato Police Department thanks members of the public who reported and assisted within this investigation."