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The weapon did not fire.
That mechanical failure is the only reason the officer walked out alive.
In a split second that likely saved a life, a Walmart asset protection associate named Conrad Piero rushed forward and tackled Newman. His quick action prevented the suspect from attempting to fire the weapon again. The officer then moved in, subdued Newman, and placed him under arrest.
Body camera footage later revealed another critical decision made in that moment. The officer chose not to fire his own weapon while the Walmart employee was on top of the suspect. He later explained that he did not want to risk hitting the courageous employee who had jumped in to help.
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According to a friend who works alongside him, Piero is a United States Marine Corps veteran. His instincts, training, and bravery were on full display when seconds mattered most.
Authorities wasted no time laying out the serious charges stemming from the attack. Newman now faces multiple felony counts, including attempted murder, felonious assault on a police officer, robbery, drug possession, and having a weapon under disability.
Police confirmed that Newman was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior felony conviction. Despite that prohibition, he was armed and prepared to use deadly force inside a crowded retail store in the middle of the day.
Officers also recovered approximately 50 blue pills identified as Molly during the arrest.
Jeffrey was charged separately with complicity to commit robbery.
Both suspects appeared in court on Friday. A judge set Newman’s bond at an eye popping $1 million. Jeffrey received a $500,000 bond. Both are expected to return to court on December 23.
Canton Police Chief John Gabbard addressed the gravity of the incident and emphasized what he believes kept the officer alive.
“This incident is a reminder of the ever-present threat of violence against police officers and the gracious provision of God’s protection,” Gabbard said. “Thank you to all of you who regularly pray with me for our officers and our community.”
The incident has sparked widespread discussion online, with many Americans praising the Walmart employee’s heroism while also pointing to the ongoing dangers faced by law enforcement officers across the country. Critics of soft on crime policies say this case highlights the real world consequences of repeat offenders remaining on the streets despite violent criminal histories.
Had the gun fired properly, the outcome would have been devastating. Instead, a malfunctioning weapon, a brave Marine veteran, and a restrained police officer combined to stop a potential execution in its tracks.
For many, the footage serves as a sobering reminder that evil does not announce itself and that courage often comes from ordinary Americans stepping up when the moment demands it.
This time, the officer lived to go home.
