Alleged Walmart Shoplifter Indicted for Trying to Shoot Canton Officer

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A 21-year-old man named Shane C.L. Newman has been indicted by the Stark County Court of Common Pleas for allegedly trying to shoot at a Canton police officer inside a Walmart store in December. Newman was taken into custody along with a woman for suspected shoplifting, but he then pulled out a handgun and allegedly attempted to shoot the officer, who was working an off-duty job at the store. The gun failed to fire, and Newman was eventually subdued by the officer and Walmart employees.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers that law enforcement officers can face, even when performing routine duties like responding to shoplifting calls. It also raises concerns about repeat offenders and the challenges of keeping firearms out of the hands of convicted felons.

The details

According to authorities, Newman has been charged with attempted murder with a firearms specification, felonious assault with a firearm specification, robbery with a firearm specification, having weapons while under disability, carrying concealed weapons, aggravated possession of drugs and obstructing official business. Body cam footage captured the confrontation, showing the officer patting down Newman before the suspect suddenly pulled out a gun and pointed it at the officer. A Walmart employee then tackled Newman, leading to a brief struggle before the officer was able to subdue him.

• The incident occurred in December 2025 inside a Walmart store in Canton, Ohio.
• Newman is scheduled to be arraigned on February 20, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge will decide on February 20th whether to allow Newman to be released on bail.