Crime
Monkey Junction Walmart employee Mark Paz shot and killed in Wilmington, suspect Dean Newman arrested
Newman attempted to flee but was apprehended by deputies in the Walmart parking lot shortly after the shooting.
A tragic incident unfolded at the Monkey Junction Walmart in Wilmington on Saturday around 6 p.m., where an employee, Mark Thomas Paz, was fatally shot.
The District Attorney for New Hanover and Pender Counties, Rebecca Zimmer Donaldson, confirmed on Sunday that charges of first-degree murder have been filed against the suspect, 27-year-old Dean Michael Newman.
According to statements from authorities, Newman was suspected of shoplifting when the confrontation escalated.
Witnesses report that he pulled out a firearm during the incident, firing shots that tragically killed Paz.
Newman attempted to flee but was apprehended by deputies in the Walmart parking lot shortly after the shooting.
He is currently being held in the New Hanover County Detention Facility without bond, with his initial court appearance scheduled for Monday morning.
Fortunately, no other individuals were injured in the altercation.
The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the public is no longer at risk, as Newman was taken into custody promptly.
This morning, a large-scale altercation erupted at Roseville High School, prompting immediate safety measures.
The school is now under a shelter-in-place order, meaning all students and staff are required to remain in secure locations as the situation is managed.
The disturbances began less than an hour ago with a series of fights, escalating quickly across campus.
Reports indicate that several students, primarily young women, were involved in the altercation, and a number have already been taken into custody in handcuffs.
Local law enforcement is on site, working alongside school officials to restore order and ensure the safety of all individuals on campus.
Further details about the cause of the unrest and any injuries have yet to be disclosed.