Shoplifter tries to shoot police officer in Walmart security room
A dramatic incident unfolded at a Walmart store in Canton, Ohio, when a suspected shoplifter pulled a gun and tried to shoot a police officer after being caught in the act, but the weapon failed to fire and security personnel quickly restrained him, police said.
The 21‑year‑old man, identified as Shane Newman, and a 23‑year‑old woman were being processed inside the store’s loss prevention office after employees detained them for allegedly stealing items. A Canton police officer was present conducting routine questioning when the situation took an unexpected turn. Video footage shows Newman suddenly producing a handgun and aiming it at the officer at point‑blank range, attempting to fire the weapon. The gun malfunctioned, producing only a clicking sound as he pulled the trigger, and no shot was fired.
A Walmart security worker reacted immediately, tackling Newman and preventing him from firing the weapon again. At the same time, the officer drew his service weapon but held fire to avoid hitting the employee who was between him and the suspect. Together, the officer and the security worker wrestled Newman to the ground and handcuffed him, ending the dangerous encounter without injuries to staff or bystanders.
Police said Newman had an active warrant and was considered armed and dangerous when he was stopped. Following his arrest, he was charged with attempted murder, felonious assault on a police officer, robbery, and weapons offences, while the woman with him was charged with complicity to commit robbery and unlawful possession of ammunition.
The incident highlights the unpredictable risks security personnel and police face when detaining suspects, even for seemingly minor offences like shoplifting. Authorities continue to urge stores and law enforcement to maintain strict procedures for handling suspects and ensuring the safety of officers and employees.
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