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.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Hundreds of students and community members are mourning the death of Erik Spencer, who was fatally shot at a shopping center in Jefferson City on November 1.
Authorities have confirmed Spencer’s death but have not yet released details regarding the individual responsible for the shooting.
Multiple witness accounts suggest the shooter may have been a white male, reportedly described by some as a possible off-duty police officer.
According to witnesses, the incident occurred as Erik and his girlfriend were leaving a store when a verbal argument broke out between them.
The male individual allegedly intervened, despite being told that the situation was under control.
Moments later, witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, striking Erik.
Friends and witnesses at the scene stated that Erik did not pose any threat to the shooter and that the confrontation escalated unnecessarily.
Law enforcement agencies have not confirmed the shooter’s identity, whether he is affiliated with law enforcement, or if he has been detained or turned himself in.
The Jefferson City Police Department and local investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Community members have since gathered for vigils and memorials to honor Erik’s memory as the investigation remains active and ongoing.