A loss-prevention worker at Walmart was shot and killed Sunday night.
According to Lilburn Police, the loss prevention officer, J.D. Ferguson, 25, was killed while he and another employee were trying to stop a shoplifting suspect from stealing three televisions.
The shooting happened at the Walmart store located at 4004 Lawrenceville Highway just after 9:00 p.m. on April 10.
"He actually got in the lobby area past all points of sale, got past the first door, was about to go out the exterior doors to the parking lot when he was stopped," said Lilburn Police Captain Thomas Bartugon. "There was a brief struggle that ensued and during this struggle the suspect produced a pistol. He fired at least one round that struck the loss-prevention officer."
Ferguson was "unresponsive and unconscious" when he was transported to Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville, and was pronounced dead at the hospital. Ferguson had worked for Walmart for about seven months.
The Lilburn Walmart released this statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the senseless and tragic loss of our friend and colleague last night. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the Ferguson family at this difficult time. We will continue to support law enforcement in their ongoing investigation.”
Lilburn police say they knew Ferguson from responding to shoplifting calls at the store. They said he wanted to become a police officer.
He leaves behind a wife and their three children, ages three, one, and three months.
After the shooting, the suspect got away in an older, dark red four-door sedan.
Capt. Bartugon said it is unusual for a shoplifting suspect to carry and use weapons to avoid arrest.
The police description of the gunman:
- Dark-skinned black male
- 5'9 to 5'10
- Medium build
- Mid-30's
- Bald or low-cut hair
- Possible facial hair
He was wearing a grey denim button-down shirt and short, dark pants.
Anyone with information about his identity or whereabouts is asked to call Lilburn Police at Investigator. C. Belcher immediately at 404-516-0657.
