Charges likely for shooter who killed Walmart shoplifter, deputies say

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Investigators with the Orange County Sheriff's Office told Channel 9's Jeff Deal that they'll recommend charges be filed against the man who shot and killed a suspected Walmart shoplifter on Saturday.

Arthur Adams, 19, was one of the people suspected of stealing diapers at the Walmart on Clarcona-Ocoee Road.

Adams was confronted by a loss prevention employee from Walmart when deputies said a shopper stepped in and some sort of argument took place, and Adams was shot, deputies said. The shooter told deputies he thought Adams was reaching for a weapon.

Adams was found at a nearby Citgo gas station, where he was taken to the hospital and declared dead, deputies said.

Rey Rivero, an undersheriff with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, told Eyewitness News that at this point, he wouldn’t say what kind of charges the 50-year-old shooter could face.

"Don't know, it's still under investigation," Rivero said.

The undersheriff and a local pastor were speaking outside the sheriff's office Tuesday about responsible gun ownership.

"My grandfather was killed in 1989. So, I know the personal effect on a families," said Pastor Kelvin Cobaris.

They were driving home the point about making sure guns are secure in people's homes and touting their upcoming gun buyback and gun-lock giveaway Thursday from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. at Orange Blossom Trail Development Board at 2719 South Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando.

It’s unclear when the shooting investigation will be completed. Investigators said they are still hoping to talk to another witness who was in the store with Adams to see what they know.

Sheriff's office officials will not release the name of the gunman, or say if he had a permit to carry the firearm. A spokesman said that would probably be released when they hand the case to the state attorney's office. Witnesses told Eyewitness News that the gunman lives near the Walmart.

Sheriff's officials told Eyewitness News that people have a right to defend themselves if they feel their life or the lives of others are in jeopardy. However they said they want people to be responsible.

"Accountability, law enforcement has to be accountable, and so does a citizen," Cobaris said.

Cox Media Group