A shoplifting investigation at a Walmart in Canton, Ohio, nearly turned deadly on December 18, 2025, when a suspect pulled a handgun and attempted to shoot a police officer, authorities said.
The confrontation occurred inside the store’s loss prevention office, where officers had detained two individuals suspected of theft. Body camera footage released by the Canton Police Department shows the suspect, identified as 21‑year‑old Shane Newman, suddenly drawing a pistol and aiming it at an officer at close range.
The weapon malfunctioned before a round could be discharged. The officer, aided by a Walmart employee, quickly subdued Newman, wrestled him to the ground, and disarmed him.
Police officials described the encounter as a stark reminder of the dangers officers face during routine calls. “This could have ended in tragedy,” a department spokesperson said, noting that the malfunction and rapid intervention prevented bloodshed.
Newman has been charged with attempted murder, felonious assault on a police officer, and multiple weapons violations. He remains in custody as prosecutors prepare to present the case before a grand jury.
The video, widely circulated on social media, has drawn intense public reaction. Viewers described the footage as “chilling” and “a close call,” while law enforcement advocates praised the officer’s composure under extreme pressure.
Gun control advocates seized on the incident to highlight the accessibility of firearms, even among individuals facing minor criminal allegations. “A shoplifting case should never escalate into a gunfight,” one advocacy group said in a statement.
Local officials emphasized the role of the Walmart employee who assisted in subduing Newman. “His courage made the difference,” Canton’s mayor remarked, adding that the city would formally recognize the employee’s actions.
The case has also reignited debate over policing tactics in retail environments, where officers often confront suspects in confined spaces with limited backup. Analysts noted that such settings magnify risks, making rapid decision‑making critical.
As the investigation continues, the Canton Police Department has pledged to review its procedures and training protocols. For now, the video stands as a vivid illustration of how quickly routine enforcement can veer toward catastrophe — and how a malfunctioning weapon and swift response averted what might have been a deadly outcome.
