MONROE, OH – A simmering feud allegedly boiled over into a dangerous arson plot targeting Bora Bora Nail Salon on Hamilton-Lebanon Road, leading to the indictment of three women this week. Kim Lien Vu, 45, of Liberty Township, Cierra Marie Bishop, 29, of Hamilton, and Makahla Ann Rennick, 18, of Hamilton, are accused of conspiring to torch the business, according to federal prosecutors.
The scheme, detailed in an affidavit filed with the court, involved planting what was described as an incendiary device inside the salon. On February 5th, surveillance footage allegedly captured Bishop and Rennick entering the establishment. Rennick, acting under instructions from Vu, reportedly made an appointment using the alias “Katelynn,” specifically told to “Just use another name. Sound white.” while receiving a pedicure. Bishop, meanwhile, is seen carrying two white bags toward the back of the salon, depositing one behind a desk before leaving.
A sharp-eyed employee discovered the suspicious package, which reeked of gasoline. Upon opening it, the employee recognized it as a potential explosive and immediately moved it outside to the salon’s dumpster. Shortly after, the device ignited, prompting a call to Monroe police who responded to what was initially reported as a dumpster fire. Investigators quickly determined the fire was intentionally set.
Federal investigators uncovered a trail of text messages between Bishop and Rennick, indicating the pair had been planning the incident for at least a week. The motive remains unclear, but records show Vu owns two other nail salons – Allure Nails Vu LLC and Love Nail Vu LLC – raising questions about potential business rivalry or personal animosity. Sources close to the investigation suggest a possible dispute over clientele or market share.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio is prosecuting the case, spearheaded by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy S. Mangan. The indictment charges the women with conspiring to maliciously damage or destroy property with fire or an explosive device, a federal crime carrying a potential sentence of five to 20 years in prison. Additionally, the charge of conspiring to commit malicious destruction via fire carries a maximum penalty of up to five years behind bars.
The investigation involved a multi-agency effort, including the FBI, ATF, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Monroe Police Department. Authorities emphasize that an indictment represents allegations, and all three defendants – Vu, Bishop, and Rennick – are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it develops, bringing you the latest updates from the courtroom.
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Key Facts
- Agency: ATF
- Category: Weapons
- Source: Official Press Release
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