Man Arrested After Stealing Ribeye Steaks, Crashing in Walmart Parking Lot

Suspect fled on foot after crashing vehicle, but was quickly apprehended by police

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

A 28-year-old man was arrested in Laredo, Texas after allegedly stealing a family pack of ribeye steaks from a Walmart and then crashing his vehicle in the store's parking lot while attempting to flee the scene. The suspect, Jesus Gerardo Flores Jr., was charged with theft and evading arrest.

Why it matters

Retail theft is an ongoing issue that businesses and law enforcement must contend with, especially in high-traffic areas like big-box store parking lots. This incident highlights the potential dangers when suspects try to evade police, putting both officers and the public at risk.

The details

According to the Laredo Police Department, officers responded to a theft report at a Walmart in south Laredo around 10:39 a.m. on February 12th. An officer arriving on the scene saw Flores leaving in a black Chevrolet Malibu and driving a short distance within the parking lot before crashing into a wooden fence. Flores then abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, but was quickly apprehended by the officer after a brief pursuit. Flores was charged with theft, a Class C misdemeanor, and evading arrest detention with a vehicle, a third-degree felony.

  • The incident occurred around 10:39 a.m. on February 12, 2026.
  • Flores was booked into Webb County Jail and remained in custody as of Thursday afternoon.

The players

Jesus Gerardo Flores Jr.

A 28-year-old man who was arrested for allegedly stealing ribeye steaks from a Walmart and then crashing his vehicle while attempting to flee the scene.

Laredo Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the theft report, apprehended the suspect, and charged him with theft and evading arrest.

Walmart

The retail store where the alleged theft took place, located in south Laredo, Texas.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to release Flores on bail or keep him in custody as the case proceeds.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of cooperation between retailers and law enforcement to address property crimes and the potential risks to public safety when suspects attempt to flee the scene.