Walmart employee shot and killed by accused shoplifter, authorities say

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT/Gray News) – A Walmart worker in southeastern North Carolina was shot and killed Saturday evening after confronting a man accused of shoplifting inside the store.

According to officials with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, several employees were trying to stop 35-year-old Dean Michael Newman from shoplifting when a fight broke out.

Newman pulled out a gun and fired one shot that struck employee Mark Thomas Paz.

Paz was pronounced dead at the scene shortly before 6 p.m

“It’s not fair that he’s gone,” said Susie Burket, one of his closest friends. ‘He was working. He was working at Walmart, you would think your workplace is a safe place, but how do we know this won’t happen again?

Paz’s friends want him to be remembered for who he was and not just as a victim of senseless gun violence. They said he was a true gentleman and friend.

“He was a friend to everyone, no matter who you were or what you did. He was your friend. He would give you the shirt off his back if you asked,” Burket said.

Walmart released the following statement in response to the shooting:

“We are heartbroken about what happened to Mark. This kind of violence is unacceptable. We focus on supporting our employees and provide on-site consulting services. The store is currently closed and we continue to assist authorities with their investigation.”

The Walmart store reopened to the public at 9 a.m. Tuesday morning.

Newman has been charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a felon.

According to NC Department of Adult Corrections Records list Newman as a habitual felon, meaning he has been convicted of three or more crimes. These convictions date back to 2008.