Wilmington Walmart Employee Mark Paz shot and killed, suspect Dean Newman arrested

A tragic shooting unfolded at the Monkey Junction Walmart in Wilmington, North Carolina, on Saturday evening, leaving one employee dead and the community in shock. Authorities have identified the victim as 29-year-old Mark Thomas Paz, a Walmart employee who lost his life after a confrontation escalated. The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney for New Hanover and Pender Counties have confirmed the arrest and charging of 27-year-old Dean Michael Newman with first-degree murder.

The incident began around 6 p.m. when Newman was reportedly confronted by store employees for suspected shoplifting. According to witness reports, the confrontation quickly took a violent turn as Newman allegedly drew a firearm and opened fire, striking Paz fatally. The tragedy unfolded in front of several Walmart patrons, leaving shoppers and employees in a state of shock.

Following the shooting, Newman attempted to flee the scene, but deputies arrived swiftly and apprehended him in the store’s parking lot. He was taken into custody without further incident and is now being held in the New Hanover County Detention Facility without bond. His initial court appearance is set for Monday, where he will face formal charges, including first-degree murder.

The District Attorney, Rebecca Zimmer Donaldson, assured the community that no further threat remains, as Newman was taken into custody promptly after the incident. The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office commended the deputies’ quick response, which prevented further harm.

No other injuries were reported, and authorities emphasized that this appeared to be an isolated event that escalated rapidly during a routine shoplifting intervention. Paz’s untimely death has resonated deeply within the Wilmington community, with many expressing condolences to his family and friends.

The Walmart where the incident took place remained temporarily closed as investigators processed the scene and interviewed witnesses. This tragic event has raised concerns about workplace safety and the challenges retail employees face when dealing with potentially dangerous situations involving theft.

As the investigation progresses, community members have come together to support Paz’s family and mourn the loss of a life taken too soon.