Key Takeaways:
- Shots were fired inside a Walmart in Wilson, North Carolina on Christmas Eve morning
- The store was evacuated and closed after the incident
- Customers disarmed one of the suspects, 19-year-old Ashton Marcal Pittman, and restrained him until police arrived
- Pittman and another person, Jordan Battle, were charged with attempted first-degree murder
- The incident occurred near a barbershop inside the store, where an altercation led to shots being fired
- No injuries were reported, and the investigation is ongoing
Introduction to the Incident
A frightening incident occurred on Christmas Eve morning at a Walmart in Wilson, North Carolina, as shots were fired inside the store. The event led to the evacuation and closure of the store, leaving customers shaken and concerned for their safety. According to police, the shooting happened around 11:08 a.m. at the supercenter on Forest Hill Road. Eyewitnesses reported hearing gunshots and being quickly evacuated as officers responded to the scene.
Eyewitness Accounts
Customers who were present at the store during the incident described the scene as chaotic and terrifying. Austin St. Peter, an eyewitness, recounted his experience, saying, "I heard the gunshots, and I just instantly went, OK, this is a scary situation. I need to get me and my mother out of here." Another customer, Christian Avis, expressed his shock and disappointment, stating, "It’s a bit scary. It’s a shame, really, right before Christmas." The incident has left many customers feeling unsettled, particularly given the store’s reputation as a safe and welcoming environment.
Investigation and Arrests
The Wilson Police Department has identified the person being held by customers as 19-year-old Ashton Marcal Pittman. According to investigators, Pittman and another person, Jordan Battle, got into an altercation near a barbershop inside the store, which led to shots being fired. During the altercation, Battle pointed a gun at Pittman as he was leaving the barbershop, and the two individuals engaged in a physical fight. A shot was fired from Battle’s gun, prompting customers to intervene, disarm Pittman, and restrain him until police arrived. Both Pittman and Battle were charged with attempted first-degree murder and booked into the Wilson County Jail with no bond.
Response and Aftermath
The Wilson Police Department responded quickly to the scene, and their prompt action helped to prevent further harm. The department is encouraging anyone with information regarding the case to contact them at 252-399-2323 or Crime Stoppers at 252-243-2255. The incident has raised concerns about safety and security in the community, particularly during the holiday season. One customer, Tiashell Richardson, expressed her shock and disappointment, saying, "I’m really shocked. This is usually a safe place for everyone to come. Wilson is not but so big. And, you know, we don’t have a lot of options, but for the Walmart to be closed down, I’m sure it’s affecting a lot of people."
Conclusion and Ongoing Investigation
The incident at the Walmart in Wilson, North Carolina, serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement. The bravery and quick thinking of the customers who disarmed and restrained Pittman likely prevented further harm and injury. As the investigation continues, the Wilson Police Department is working to gather more information and piece together the events surrounding the shooting. The community remains shaken, but grateful that no injuries were reported. The incident will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the community, and it is essential for residents to come together to support one another and promote a safer and more harmonious environment.
