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.
Authorities are currently investigating a double homicide at the Brighton Community Center, located at 3810 7th Avenue in Bessemer, Alabama.
Multiple law enforcement agencies have responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.
Details surrounding the incident remain limited at this time, and authorities have not yet released information about the victims or any potential suspects.
Investigators are working diligently to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the circumstances leading to the tragic event.
Residents in the area are urged to remain cautious and report any information that may assist law enforcement in their investigation.
Anyone with details about the incident is encouraged to contact the Bessemer Police Department or submit a tip anonymously through local crime-stopper programs.