Jaseramie Dion (JD) Ferguson, a 25-year-old loss prevention officer at a Walmart store in Lilburn, Ga., was killed April 10 trying to stop a shoplifter from making off with three flat screen televisions.
“We are deeply saddened by the senseless and tragic loss of our friend and colleague last night,” said a statement from the management of the Lilburn store. “Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the Ferguson family at this difficult time. We will continue to support law enforcement in their ongoing investigation.”
According to police reports, the shoplifter, who had made it through the store lobby, was stopped at the second set of doors by Ferguson, who had worked at the store for 7 months. In the struggle with the shoplifter, Ferguson was shot. He was pronounced dead at Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville, Ga. He leaves behind a wife and three children.
The suspect – described as a 30-something black male, height somewhere between 5' and 5'10" and with a shaved or bald head – fled on foot before jumping into a four-door red sedan and driving off.
Captain Thomas Bartugon of the Lilburn Police Department said it is unusual for shoplifting suspects to carry weapons.