Gun Jam Thwarts Attempted Shooting of Ohio Police Officer During Walmart Shoplifting Arrest
CANTON, Ohio — A tense confrontation at a Walmart store ended without injury after a suspected shoplifter’s gun jammed as he attempted to shoot a police officer at close range, according to dramatic body camera footage released by the Canton Police Department.
The incident unfolded on December 18, 2025, when officers responded to reports of shoplifting involving two suspects, later identified as 21-year-old Shane Newman and a woman named Katerina Jeffrey. After detaining the pair, officers escorted them to a security room within the store for questioning and a search.
Video captured from the officer’s body camera initially showed a calm scene, with a Walmart employee handing over a pen and paper as the suspects sat on a bench. However, the situation quickly escalated when Newman suddenly drew a handgun and aimed it at the officer’s head. The gun failed to fire, producing only a clicking sound, indicating a malfunction.
As the woman screamed, “No, no, no!” a Walmart security employee lunged at Newman, attempting to restrain him. Newman raised the gun again and tried to fire a second time, but the weapon jammed once more. The security worker then successfully knocked the firearm from Newman’s hands just as the officer drew his own weapon and commanded, “Get back! Get back!”
The officer subdued Newman, pinning him to the floor until backup arrived. Both suspects were taken into custody without injury. The officer later told responding personnel that Newman had “pulled the gun out, pointed it at my head and pulled the trigger,” but the weapon did not discharge.
Authorities later confirmed that the officer had missed a concealed firearm in Newman’s shoulder bag during the initial search. He also revealed he had been alerted moments before the attack that Newman had an active warrant and was classified as “armed and dangerous.”
Newman faces charges including attempted murder and felonious assault on a police officer, while Jeffrey was charged with complicity to commit robbery and possession of ammunition under disability, according to court records.
This incident underscores the dangers law enforcement officers face during routine calls and the critical role of quick intervention by both officers and store security personnel. The Canton Police Department continues to investigate the case.
Body camera technology, which has become an essential tool for transparency and accountability in policing, provided crucial evidence of the sequence of events. The Department of Justice has supported the widespread adoption of such devices to enhance public trust and officer safety.
Walmart, a major retailer with extensive security protocols, has worked with local law enforcement agencies to improve responses to theft and violence in stores. The company’s security personnel were instrumental in disarming Newman, preventing what could have been a deadly outcome.
Incidents involving firearms during arrests highlight ongoing concerns about gun violence and public safety. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives continues to monitor illegal firearm possession and trafficking, aiming to reduce such threats.
As this case proceeds through the legal system, it serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable risks faced by officers and civilians alike during law enforcement encounters.
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