WILMINGTON — The man who shot and killed a Monkey Junction Walmart employee on Saturday evening is being charged with first-degree murder and held without bond.
Dean Michael Newman appeared in court Monday for killing Mark Thomas Paz on Nov. 2. Paz worked at Walmart and was in a crowd of employees who attempted to stop Newman from shoplifting.
The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office said a fight occurred and the 35-year-old pulled out a gun and shot. It struck Paz, who died on the scene just before 6 p.m.
Newman was found outside in the parking lot and arrested by police. Not only is he being charged with first-degree murder but also possession of firearm by a felon.
Newman has a long list of charges, including felony breaking and entering, larceny, resisting officers, drug paraphernalia, reckless driving, possession of firearm and escaping from incarceration.
The Monkey Junction Walmart has been closed since the incident but will reopen on Tuesday.
The big box store sent a statement to Port City Daily’s media partner, WECT, about its former employee:
“We are heartbroken about what happened to Mark. Violence like this is unacceptable. We are focused on supporting our associates and will be offering on-site counseling services. The store is currently closed, and we continue to assist the authorities with their investigation.”
His family is also raising money for his celebration of life via GoFundMe.
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