Friday, May 1, 2020

Walmart Crime Report April 2020



Walmart might have gotten a modest break in other crimes in the first month of the pandemic, but in April the rest of regular crimes rose right back up again and the ones related to the pandemic rose even more, so now it appears as if this is making crime worse, not better.

They also had the second highest death toll for the month, assuming you count those related to the Corona-virus, with only August of 2019, getting a higher death toll due to the mass shooting in El Paso. And the last hospitalized victim from that shooting died this month so that record rose slightly from 31 to 32, with 23 as a result of the shooting. Another person that allegedly became a hero at the El Paso shooting, before being exposed faking it was also found dead last month, although not at Walmart, and there's no evidence directly linking it to the shooting reported in the media. In April there were a total of at least nineteen dead, with seven of them as a result of the Corona-virus, five of them as a result of shootings, and another seven from various other causes, mostly health related, although not from the Corona-virus.

Most of these deaths are usually not considered suspicious, although they should be worried about why there are so many, and one of them this month was considered suspicious, although they haven't explained the details behind it yet. There was also one more death related to a beating at Walmart in March that happened weeks after the death bring the death toll for that month up from four to five.

There were at least eleven shootings last month, including the five fatal ones, two that were officer involved, one suicide, and the last two deaths are presumably homicides, and there were several other injuries. There are protest for both the officer involved shootings, in Missouri and California, claiming that the suspects were not threatening anyone, but no conclusions yet from the police departments, although they're almost always considered justified, and probably will be in this case too, even if the local communities disagree.

There were fewer than usual other gun related crimes last month but still close to if not more than half a dozen, including a robbery, at least one case of stolen guns, an employee who put his legally own gun on the floor in the bathroom stall, where it was seen and caused a panic and resulted in him getting fired, and at least one argument related to the Corona-virus. They also ahd an employee hit with a pellet gun, several other Walmart employees attacked when confronting shoplifters, or for other reasons and several other fights or brawls. The mayor of Savannah broke up one of these in Georgia; one employee was attacked at the self checkout register in California, where they often have a lot of problems due to their corner cutting not hiring enough people to take care of the customers.

A lot of the money they save by cutting corners is spent on these security problems in addition to tax payer money being used to arrest people, but since this is considered a negative externality, it doesn't impact profits and the employees and tax payers pay the price instead of investors, which is why there should be reasonable accountability for the policy makers.

Most other crimes have gone right back up to normal after a brief break including chases, accidents, hit and runs or other automobile crimes with at least fifteen of these, including a couple related to the Corona-virus pandemic, but mostly typical ones, including one accident where a truck hit a pole; and another where a drunk driver tried to drive through the front door, which happens every few months with some of them succeeding; but no fatal accidents that I know of. One of these incidents involved an enraged girlfriend trying to hit two employees with a car, and another a robbery where a woman was dragged by a car, before getting free.



They also had a couple arsons, which is fewer than usual; and at least eight stabbings or other crimes involving knife attacks, robberies or threats. Their own employees are often put at risk as a result of these incidents; however, those making the decisions are also raking in the money and not only are they suppressing the wages of these employees, but they're cutting corners that would protect them.

There are many more crimes routinely committed at Walmart; yet, there's little or no effort to figure out what causes them or how to reduce them, endangering both the public and employees, while investors make a fortune. Police are also at risk with several of them, at least, attacked every month, and there's no doubt that self-checkout is a major magnet for crime, and other policies also contribute to this, but profits for those that finance campaigns are, of course, more important than the safety of the public. However last month the thing that has dominated everything has of course, been the Corona-virus.



There were at least seven deaths related to the Corona-virus, including three at the same store in Aurora Colorado, three in Illinois, two of those at the same store with one already resulting in a lawsuit, and the other one in Massachusetts. There are well over a hundred, if not thousands, of employees that have tested positive for Corona-virus.

Walmart seems to have taken over a large role testing people for this; this pandemic has enabled them to increase their involvement in the health care industry, and it's also enabling them to wipe out even more competitors since many small businesses aren't allowed to open. This is completely changing the way every one does business, assuming they still do an y business at all.

Walmart and other retailers have been accused of gouging consumers for eggs, and perhaps other items as a result of the pandemic and are trying to make up for lost sales by pushing novelty items like T-shirts turning the virus into a joke. They've also been exposed for hiding the fact that it was previously under criminal investigation for the opioid crisis as well, before the pandemic even began.

A large portion of the news about this story may be kept secret; Walmart often declines to let the public know how many people are testing positive at their stores, and Wake-up Walmart has picked up some of the reporting gathering information directly from employees. There are also a lot of protests being planned, including many scheduled to happen today on May Day.



There's also a surge in what they now call COVIDiots, or well over a dozen people treating it like a joke often licking items coughing spitting on products or even people, often claiming to have Corona-virus, usually when they don't or haven't even been tested. Brawls have broken out over the virus or the extreme measures taken as a result of it; a couple people sprayed others with pepperspray or Lysol, and much more insanity.

One of the most extreme examples is an alleged incident where a woman caught shoplifting "projectile poops" all over the store and at employees after being caught shoplifting, assuming this is even possible. I'm not ruling the possibility this was exaggerated or even fabricated, even though it seems to come from a reliable news outlet. It wouldn't be the first time a racist story like this was made up about five years ago the same thing happened involving a Jimmy Dean sausage.

However there are also people making the best out of it without causing any trouble, including some dressing up like a plague doctor, an alien or a T-Rex.



Strange things happen at Walmart!





In 2006 Wake Up Walmart did a study, "Is Walmart Safe?" based on incidents in 2004, (PDF) about crime at Walmart which showed that it increased when Walmarts opened up and that crime was higher at Walmart than at other retailers. Since then Walmart Shootings began compiling a list of gun related incidents at Walmart and demonstrated that they have a large number of them, including on average more than one shooting per week somewhere in the country; now after counting them for several years that average is over two per week. In January of 2014 another study, "Rolling Back Prices and Raising Crime Rates?" provided additional statistical research indicating that Walmart might be contributing to higher crime rates or at least a slowing of the decline in crime. The study found that. “on average, communities with Walmarts had 17 more property crimes and two more violent crimes per 10,000 people than those communities without Walmarts.” I reviewed this more in Walmart’s crime problem, Rolling Back Safety more than prices? where I explained that although this study is helpful they could have done better with additional data that is available and I reviewed some of that. I also added my own review about why I think that Walmart policies have been contributing to higher crime in a previous blog, Walmart high crime rate continues un-investigaterd and have provided additional information under the author tag Walmart Crime Watch.

Stacy Mitchell has also compiled a list of other studies about Walmart and how they impact society, Key Studies on Big-Box Retail & Independent Business. To the best of my knowledge Walmart has done as little as they seem to get away with, often relying on rhetoric that isn't backed up with action, when it comes to addressing any of their critics concerns, including crime. One of the responses they’ve come up with is what they call "Restorative Justice" which gives first time shoplifters a chance to avoid being arrested or any criminal record if they take an on line course which costs $400 up front or $500 in payments, plus perhaps, reparations. This has been part of the privatization process and often denies suspects of the due process or access to a lawyer, perhaps even intimidating and extorting from some people that might not even be guilty. Walmart seems to be trying to find a way to turn crime into a profit making situation instead of looking for the most effective ways to reduce it. Making Change at Walmart is asking If you or someone you know has gone through @Walmart's "Restorative Justice" program for first-time suspected shoplifters, send us a DM. 03/30/2017 to ensure that it isn’t doing more harm than good. I did my own review of this program as well at Walmart’s “Restorative Justice” Endangers Public Without Reducing Crime. The following are a list of incidents that occurred in April 2020. According to the "Is Walmart Safe?" the average store in their sampling had 250 incidents per year indicating that these are only a fraction of the crime reports at Walmart, and presumably, the ones most likely to make the news on the internet nationwide. This isn't statistically representative, as the 2006 or the "Rolling Back Prices and Raising Crime Rates?" study or some of the studies cited by Stacy Mitchell; but it does provide some additional information that may help recognize how many problems there are at Walmart.



Man arrested for groping teen in Richland County SC Walmart, deputies say 04/01/2020

Man accidentally drops firearm inside Richland Wash. Walmart causing it to discharge 04/01/2020

RICHLAND, Wash.-- Richland Police tell Action News a man wearing a jacket was legally carrying a firearm inside his jacket while shopping in Walmart Wednesday afternoon.

According to police, the man somehow dropped the jacket and the firearm discharged inside the Richland Walmart on Duportail Street.

Nobody was hurt. Complete article


Elderly man dies in Monticello Minn. Walmart restroom 03/30/2020

A 73-year-old Sartell man died in the mens room of the Monticello Walmart store in the early afternoon of Friday, March 27.

Six Wright County deputy squad cars and a CentraCare ambulance arrived at the retailer shortly after 1 p.m. on a report that a male had been found unresponsive in a Walmart restroom.

When deputies arrived on scene, people in the store had initiated CPR. Responding deputies took over the rescue effort until the ambulance arrived on scene. Medical personnel were unable to revive the man, according to the Wright County Sheriff’s Office. Complete article


Shoplifting suspect charged with setting fire to Wisc. Walmart employee's car 04/01/2020

A suspected shoplifter at a Walmart store in Lake Geneva returned to the store and set fire to a car belonging to the employee who reported him to police, prosecutors have charged.

Jeremy A. Saavedra, 32, of Centuria, is charged with arson and intimidation of a witness, both felonies, in the alleged incident March 23 at Walmart, 201 Edwards Boulevard.

Saavedra also is charged with damage or threat to a witness' property, misdemeanor retail theft, disorderly conduct and and two counts of misdemeanor bail jumping. Complete article


Woman threatens LPD officer, spits on him at South Lubbock Tx. Walmart, police report says 04/01/2020

LUBBOCK, Texas– One woman was arrested at a South Lubbock Walmart on Tuesday after she verbally threatened and spit on a Lubbock Police officer.

At approximately 11:30 a.m., police responded to reports of a civil disturbance at the Walmart, located at 4205 S. Loop 289, according to a police report.

A previous callsheet indicated an intoxicated woman, later identified as Judy Sue Martinez, 39, was inside the store “cursing at shoppers and flashing her breasts at them.”

Martinez was detained in the parking lot. However, she tried to walk away, so police detained her in handcuffs and walked her to a patrol vehicle, according to the report.

Once Martinez was at the patrol vehicle, she said, “I’ll f*** your family up, Mr. … and that’s a threat.”

She also spit on the officer and then said, “and I’ll spit in your God d*** face,” the report states. Complete article


Taholah man thwarts robbery in Wash. Walmart 04/01/2020

Aberdeen, WA – A robbery at Walmart was stopped by a helpful citizen.

The Aberdeen Police Department tells KXRO that a 28-year old Taholah man was instrumental in thwarting a purse theft Sunday afternoon in Walmart.

They say that just after 4:15 p.m. Aberdeen officers were sent to the store for a report of a robbery and when they arrived they arrested a 31-year old Hoquiam man, who had been detained by the helpful witness. ......

In the process, the victim fell and yelled, and the Taholah man chased the suspect.

The younger man tackled the suspect and held him until officers arrived and took him into custody. Complete article


Self-Checkout “Skip Scanning” Problems Continue At Wyoming Walmart 04/01/2020

Over $1,000 of merchandise was stolen from Walmart over the weekend in five separate incidents of “skip scanning,” a process which involves running an item over the scanner in the self-checkout line quickly, without actually ringing it up before placing it inside a plastic grocery bag on the unweighted scales. This form of theft is becoming increasingly more common, according to Lt. Brent Wasson of the Gillette Police Department, who sees multiple cases each week.

On Saturday evening, two such thefts occurred at Walmart, Wasson said. The first occurred just after 4 p.m. when a 47-year-old woman and 49-year-old man attempted to skip scan more than $440 worth of clothing and other miscellaneous items. The pair were subsequently caught and cited for shoplifting and trespassed from the store.

Later that evening, just after 7:30 p.m, GPD responded to a report of a 40-year-old female who attempted to skip scan an additional $325 in miscellaneous items at Walmart. The woman was cited and later arrested on a warrant for failure to appear in court on a subsequent charge. Complete article


Norfolk Va. police search for Walmart robbery suspect 04/01/2020

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Norfolk police are investigating a robbery at a Walmart.

The Norfolk Police Department responded a robbery inside a Walmart, located at 1170 N. Military Hwy., at around 9:15 a.m. on Tuesday. Police said a man went into the store and passed the clerk a note demanding money. The clerk gave the man money and he fled the store.

Anyone with information about this robbery call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP or submit a tip online. Complete article


Lumberton Walmart employee tests positive for COVID-19 03/28/2020

HARDIN COUNTY — A Lumberton Walmart employee has tested positive for COVID-19 and is self-quarantining while a Hardin County death is under investigation to determine if it's linked to the virus.

Hardin County Judge Wayne McDaniel confirms to KFDM Fox 4 a Lumberton Walmart employee who last worked March 16 tested positive for COVID-19.

“He never touched any buggies, stock or people prior to his last day,” said McDaniel. “The Hardin County Health Department is checking on his contacts and investigating to notify any contacts. It’s notifying all Lumberton Walmart employees and asking them to notify contacts. The man is self-quarantining.”

It is the 7th confirmed COVID-19 case in Hardin County. That includes four in Lumberton and three in Silsbee. Complete article


Southtown Ind. Walmart parking lot littered with gloves, masks 04/01/2020

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA21) - As more and more people are taking extra precautions to protect themselves against the novel coronavirus, it appears they're also creating more litter.

The Southtown Crossing Walmart parking lot is littered with gloves, masks and cleaning wipes.

ABC21 counted dozens of personal protective equipment on the concrete, in the grass, and in the landscaping around the property.

It appears folks are just tossing their PPE once they've finished up grocery shopping. Complete article


Walmart, Target, Costco ordered to stop in-person sales of nonessential products in Vermont 04/01/2020

(Meredith) - State officials in Vermont have ordered big-box retailers, such as Walmart, Target and Costco, to stop the in-person sale of nonessential products.

Instead, these stores must stick to selling critical items like food and prescription drugs amid the coronavirus pandemic, the Associated Press reported.

Items that cannot be sold in person include clothing, consumer electronics, books, furniture and sporting equipment. The stores can still sell nonessential items online, via telephone, delivery and curbside pick-up. Complete article


Wadesboro NC Walmart closes doors sooner than expected; pharmacy open until Friday 04/02/2020

Las Vegas Nevada man arrested for coronavirus 'prank' in Walmart apologizes 04/01/2020

Wash. Walmart closes pharmacy for thorough cleaning 03/30/2020

Winnsboro Man Jailed For Alleged Theft At Tx. Walmart 04/01/2020

Walmart in Derby Vermont not allowed in-person sales of non-essential items 04/01/2020

Men stole from Lynchburg Walmart by hiding items in camo sweatshirts, police said 04/01/2020

Woman Attacks Senior Citizen At Route 59 Ill. Walmart: Complaint 04/02/2020

JOLIET, IL — A 21-year-old Plainfield area woman is no longer in the Will County Jail following her recent arrest by the Joliet Police Department at the Walmart on Route 59. Mishelle Lawler is accused of attacking a senior citizen in the parking lot.

Two felony charges of aggravated battery have been filed against her. One charge is aggravated battery against a senior citizen, and the other is aggravated battery at a public place.

Lawler, who lives in the 7000 block of Pyramid Drive, a Plainfield mailing address, was booked into county detention around 6:20 p.m. March 28. After spending 50 hours in the county detention center, Lawler was released March 30.

She posted 10 percent of her $25,000 bail. Complete article


Nine employee coronavirus cases force Walmart to shut down Bethlehem Pa. warehouse, workers say 04/02/2020

Walmart has temporarily idled its e-commerce fulfillment center in the Majestic Bethlehem Center amid an increasing number of employee coronavirus cases at the south Bethlehem facility.

Workers were informed of nine cases Wednesday night, up from the number earlier in the week, according to multiple employees who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal. Asked to confirm that number, Walmart said it didn’t have specific figures to provide but noted the facility did have confirmed cases this week.

“Our associates’ well-being is critically important to us,” Walmart said in a statement to The Morning Call on Thursday. “Due to unique circumstances, our Bethlehem eCommerce Fulfillment Center will temporarily suspend operations until Monday, April 6, so we can make adjustments to our operations, including schedule changes and bringing specialists in to thoroughly clean and sanitize the building.” Complete article


Amazon and Walmart sellers are hawking coronavirus-themed T-shirts about social distancing while workers protest about safety conditions 04/01/2020

Search for a "social distancing sweatshirt" or a "coronavirus T-shirt" on either Amazon or Walmart's site and you'll find dozens of products available for purchase with coronavirus-themed slogans and messages emblazoned across the front.

"I was social distancing before it was cool," read several shirts.

"I'm not lazy, I'm busy saving the world," others say.

Or even: "Straight outta Wuhan," a reference to the Chinese city where the virus is thought to have started.

The idea that retailers are using the pandemic for financial gain is clearly controversial. And while states and federal agencies have taken action to crack down on price-gouging at major retailers, including Amazon and Walmart, there has been no guidance around businesses making money from selling coronavirus-themed products. Complete article


Walmart should be under restrictions 04/01/2020

By Jackie Ward Traweek
Dear editor,

I ran to Walmart today (Sunday, March 29) in Sealy to pick up an online order of groceries for my small childcare business which is under intense stress and pressure to keep everything so incredibly sanitized and safe that my hands are cracking from the cleaning, my chest hurts from the stress, and I can’t get it out of my mind. Nobody checking people at the door, entire families shopping as in grandparent, child and small kids, kids touching all over everything. Elderly people trying to pick up their meds and huge families with coughing children behind them.

How on earth is it fair to shut down small businesses who maybe see 5-20 people in their office or location per day but leave a Walmart open with hundreds and hundreds of daily shoppers with a full parking lot and no spacing of entry or rules about how many people per family can go in?! We can’t flatten any curves with mega stores deemed essential who aren’t following any social distancing other than closing early to wipe and restock shelves.

Small business is struggling. Walmart will thrive even if they have more rules. I don’t understand in any way how it’s fair to shut down every hair dresser, dining room, “non-essential” office, school, bar, you name it and request people to stay in their homes and avoid contact with other humans to fl Complete article


Coronavirus PPE order coming from Walmart, Trump says 04/01/2020

During Wednesday’s coronavirus task force briefing, President Trump said he gave Walmart CEO Doug McMillon a “very, very big” order for hospital gowns of all sizes and other protective equipment for doctors and nurses dealing with the pandemic.

"I just had a great talk today with Doug McMillon from Walmart and I gave him a very, very big order for gowns, for protective gear for the doctors, for the nurses, for everything and he’s actually very excited about it,” Trump said. "When you look at these hospitals, the amount that they order, you almost say how could they possibly use so much whether its masks or the protective gear, but we are supplying a tremendous amount and we just ordered a lot from Walmart and he’s taking this on personally.” Complete article


Ga. Walmart construction is for new health clinic 04/03/2020

A new Walmart Health clinic is under construction at the Newnan Walmart location.

The clinic was permitted through the city of Newnan in January, and, according to Walmart spokeswoman Marilee McInnis, will be opening this summer.

It will be the fourth Walmart Health location, McInnis said.

A location in Dallas, Georgia opened in September and one in Calhoun opened in January. Complete article


Is Costco A Better Bet Compared To Walmart After A 7% Decline? 04/02/2020

Walmart donates supplies to Nesquehoning Pa. police 04/02/2020

Walmart touts charitable efforts 04/02/2020

Blotter: More than 25 pounds of meat stolen from Tx. Walmart 04/02/2020

Woman steals television from Walmart in Fort Lauderdale Fla, 04/01/2020

Wegmans, Walmart now allowing employees to wear masks amid coronavirus concerns 04/02/2020

2 Workers From Evergreen Park Ill. Walmart Die From COVID-19 04/03/2020

CHICAGO (CBS) — Two Evergreen Park Walmart employees are dead after contracting the coronavirus.

The sister of one of the victims, Phillip Thomas, spoke with CBS 2 Investigator Brad Edwards.

“He’s 48. He’s going to be 49 on April 12,” Angela McMiller said. “I kept seeing on the news that I felt like they were making my brother a number. He’s not a number. He’s a person. he was a very good guy. He worked at Walmart for nine years. He had lots of friends there. They were devastated as well as we are. And he kept telling me he wasn’t feeling well. He said he called his doctor and the doctor told him to self quarantine himself a week ago, which I thought was totally wrong because he’s a diabetic as well.”

She says her brother was never examined, just off of work and told to self quarantine. Finally on the March 27 he called an ambulance. He died two days later.

“I hope no one else dies at the Walmart,” McMiller said.”I don’t know if it’s a coincidence that two people died from that same Walmart. From what I understand he was out of work as well as my brother before he died. I just put my faith in God. That’s all you can do because I know there’s no cure for this virus. But it has taken my brother.”

The second victim is Wando Evans. He, too, worked at the store in Evergreen Park. Complete article

Evergreen Park mayor suspends Walmart’s liquor license, requests investigation after COVID-19 employee deaths 04/03/2020

COVID-19 test site closes at Northlake Ill. Walmart 04/03/2020

Hamburg Ky. Walmart employee tests positive for COVID-19 04/03/2020


Lincoln County Missouri Walmart employee tests positive for COVID-19 04/03/2020

TROY, Mo. — A Walmart employee has tested positive for coronavirus, according to a press release on Friday from Lincoln County Health Department.

The health department asks that anyone who visited the Walmart in Troy between March 26 and 29 monitor their health for coronavirus symptoms.

As of Friday, the health department confirmed 16 positive cases in the county. Complete article


Walmart regulating the number of customers in stores due to coronavirus outbreak 04/03/2020

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KFSM) — To promote health, safety and consistency for associates and customers in this environment, Walmart is taking some further steps for U.S. stores:

Regulating Store Entry

Starting Saturday, we will limit the number of customers who can be in a store at once. Stores will now allow no more than five customers for every 1,000 square feet at a given time, roughly 20% of a store’s capacity.

To manage this restriction, the associates at a store will mark a queue at a single-entry door (in most cases the Grocery entrance) and direct arriving customers there, where they will be admitted one-by-one and counted. Associates and signage will remind customers of the importance of social distancing while they’re waiting to enter a store – especially before it opens in the morning.

Once a store reaches its capacity, customers will be admitted inside on a “1-out-1-in” basis. Complete article


11 Things Walmart Won’t Sell Anymore 04/03/2020

You can find just about anything you want at Walmart—except for these items.

E-cigarettes

Vaping was originally touted as a tool to help people quit cigarettes, but with growing concerns about the dangers of vaping, many retailers are cutting back on selling the e-cigarettes and/or their cartridges. In September 2019, Walmart announced that it was halting all sales of e-cigarettes once its current inventory was sold. This was after they had already committed to raising the age for buying e-cigarettes and vaping products to 21, as well as stopped selling the fruit- and dessert-flavored vaping liquids that appealed to minors. Regular cigarettes are actually on the list of things Costco will never sell again.

Cocaine Santa sweater

One of the most legendary products that Walmart has ever stocked was an ugly Christmas sweater with the phrase “Let It Snow” and an image of Santa with what appeared to be three lines of cocaine on the table in front of him. The infamous sweater was pulled from Walmart’s website in 2019…but was quickly resurrected on Amazon, where it became the hit pick for ugly-sweater holiday parties that year. Walmart has plenty of other bizarre things you can buy there, though.

Zantac

Walmart was among several retailers—including CVS Health, Walgreens, and Rite Aid—that pulled the heartburn drug Zantac (and anything else with its active ingredient, ranitidine) after regulators found dangerous contaminants in the medication last year. The discovery of low levels of a probable cancer-causing chemical also resulted in recalls of several prescription blood pressure medications last year. Complete article


Suspected shoplifter arrested at Fla. Wal-Mart at Buffalo Ridge Plaza 04/03/2020

Police seek ID in Tenn. Walmart theft 04/03/2020

The Missouri Walmart Coronavirus Licker's Defense 04/03/2020

Walmart worker hit by pellet in Nazareth Pa. area parking lot, cops say 04/04/2020

A Walmart employee reported being shot by a group with a pellet gun Friday in the Nazareth area store’s parking lot, police said.

The employee was collecting shopping carts outside the store in the Northampton Crossings shopping center in Lower Nazareth Township, when a group of males in a maroon SUV drove up and shot at the victim with a pellet gun, Colonial Regional police Sgt. John Harmon said.

Police were called at 5:25 p.m. for the incident and say the vehicle was gone when officers arrived.

The victim was hit on his side, but was wearing a jacket and was uninjured, Harmon said. There was no damage to any vehicles.

Officers were not immediately able to view surveillance video of the parking lot.

The victim was unwilling to cooperate with the investigation, and there were no other witnesses, police said. Complete article


Two Spokane Wash. Walmart Employees Test Positive for Coronavirus 04/04/2020

SPOKANE, Wash. — Spokane Regional Health District confirmed Saturday that two employees at a Spokane Wallmart tested positive for the coronavirus. A spokesperson told KREM 2 the employees worked at the Walmart off of Newport Highway in North Spokane.

The health district says the two people are in isolation and recovering at home at this time.

According to a spokesperson with Walmart, the store plans to disinfect the front entrance, carts, registers and bathrooms. The store will also disinfect food areas and all high-touch surfaces. Complete article


Smiths Station woman dresses as alien at Walmart Neighborhood Market in Phenix City Alabama 04/04/2020

PHENIX CITY, Ala (WRBL) – There are many ways to cheer someone up and make their day.

Jennifer Talbert, of Smiths Station, has her own way. She dressed up as an alien while going to get groceries at the Walmart Neighborhood Market in Phenix City on US Hwy 80 West.

“It was just to put a smile on someone’s face while getting the necessities at Walmart,” Talbert said. She says it was an old Halloween costume that she had laying around.

“I thought it would be a good laugh for our community. We could use it right now,” Talbert. She says multiple customers asked to take her picture who also thanked her for doing what she did.

“I had someone reach out to me and tell me that during the crisis this made his day,” Talbert said. Complete article


Oconee Co. SC deputies seek information on larceny at Seneca Walmart 04/03/2020

Police arrest man trespassing at Wisc. Walmart 04/05/2020

Watch Walmart's new ad with employees' emotional rendition of 'Lean on Me' 04/05/2020

Quebec Canada Walmart worker struck by driver allegedly angered by COVID-19 measures 04/05/2020

SHERBROOKE, QUE.—A Walmart security guard from southern Quebec was fighting for his life on Sunday morning after being struck and dragged by a driver who was allegedly enraged by social distancing policies aimed to curb the spread of COVID-19, local police said.

Police in Sherbrooke, about 150 kilometres east of Montreal, said the incident occurred at about 5 p.m. Saturday when the suspect tried to enter the Walmart with his partner, only to be told just one person per vehicle was allowed inside at once.

Police spokesman Martin Carrier said the suspect allegedly became frustrated after leaving the store, leading to an altercation in the parking lot.

“At a certain moment, the frustrated client ran directly into the employee with his vehicle, even dragging him on the hood for several metres,” Carrier said. Complete article

Bail granted to Quebec man charged in Walmart altercation with security guard 04/08/2020 Defence lawyer Kim Dingman says the defence has obtained surveillance video from the parking lot, not yet filed in court, which offers a very different version of what happened.


Police: Man shoplifting from Walmart crashes near Moundsville WV Bridge 04/05/2020

MOUNDSVILLE, W. Va. (WTOV) — A police chase in Moundsville ended after a shoplifter crashed their vehicle.

The Moundsville Police Department said that 32-year-old Adam Christopher Shoemaker was stealing from the Moundsville Walmart and tried to flee police in his SUV Sunday evening around 7:30 p.m.

Officers pursued Shoemaker who eventually crashed their Blue Ford Expedition near the Moundsville Bridge. Complete article


Man drives into Walmart in Marinette Wisc. 04/05/2020

MARINETTE (WLUK) -- A 24-year-old Marinette man was arrested for OAWI after he drove his vehicle into Walmart on Sunday afternoon.

A pedestrian was injured as a result of the crash.

It was the second OAWI offense for the driver. Complete article


Delaware County Ohio Walmart worker allegedly shoved to the ground by suspect during robbery 04/05/2020

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) — Crime Stoppers of Central Ohio is offering a cash reward to identify a suspect wanted for stealing electronics and pushing a store worker while trying to leave the scene.

Delaware County authorities tell ABC 6/FOX 28 on Friday, March 20, 2020, at 7 a.m., an unidentified black male entered a Walmart store in Lewis Center shortly after 7 a.m.

Witnesses say the suspect was seen attempting to exit the store with a cart containing electronic merchandise. Upon leaving the store, a piece of alleged stolen merchandise fell from the cart. When a Walmart employee attempted to retrieve the merchandise, the suspect shoved him with enough force to put him on the ground, according to police. Complete article


Man scuffles with NY Walmart employees after trying to steal machetes, ammo 04/05/2020

A man scuffled with employees Friday morning at the Walmart Supercenter, 1540 Military Road, in Niagara Falls, after they said they caught him trying to steal a bag full of machetes and shotgun shells, Town of Niagara police reported.

According to reports, around 10 a.m. Paul A. Hakime, 33, of Brooklyn, packed a bag full of 16 items and attempted to leave the store without paying for them. He then fought with store employees who attempted to stop him, police said. The stolen merchandise, valued at $230, was recovered and returned to the store.

Hakime was charged with petit larceny and fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property. Complete article


Police: Knife pulled during road rage incident at East Syracuse NY Walmart parking lot 04/05/2020

East Syracuse, N.Y. — DeWitt police are looking for a woman they say pulled a knife on another woman in a fit of road rage outside Walmart earlier this afternoon.

Officers were called to the store, located at 6438 Basile Rowe in East Syracuse, around 1:56 p.m. Sunday. That’s where police say the suspect vehicle cut off another vehicle in the parking lot, which prompted the woman who had been cut off to pull over, get out of her car and confront the other driver, DeWitt Police Sgt. Michael Kurgan said.

The daughter of the woman who had been cut off, who was in a different vehicle at the time, also got out to confront the other driver, Kurgan said.

During the confrontation, an occupant inside the vehicle that cut off the other driver, pulled out a knife and pressed it to the woman’s chest. The woman suffered a minor injury akin to a pin prick, Kurgan said. Complete article


Carrollton Tx. Police Searching For Teen Girl Claiming To Have Coronavirus & Spreading It At Walmart 04/05/2020

CARROLLTON, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) — Carrollton police have identified but not yet located an 18-year-old girl who claims to have the coronavirus and is “willfully spreading” it, officials said.

Officials said Lorraine Maradiaga, 18, is facing a charge of terroristic threat after she reportedly claimed to be positive for COVID-19 and appeared in a Snapchat video allegedly infecting consumers at a local Walmart.

Officials said although they have no confirmation the teen is actually a threat to public health, they are taking her threats seriously. Complete article

Teen Arrested After Sharing Snapchat Falsely ‘Spreading’ Coronavirus At Walmart 04/07/2020


Ca. Walmart Shopper Coughs & Spits on Employees Over Billing Dispute 04/05/2020

This is a terrifying scene for every store clerk these days -- a woman coughing and spitting in rage while checking out at a California Walmart!!!

The crazy altercation went down in Yreka, CA when the woman got into a spat over her bill while she was at the register this past week. Apparently, she felt she was overcharged and wanted to glance at the screen, but the Walmart worker told her to back up. That's when the spit started hitting the fan.

A manager walked over and tried to calm her down, but the woman spun into a full-blown meltdown ... suddenly beginning to cough and SPIT on a Walmart staffer ... who immediately dialed 9-1-1.

If you thought that was crazy, just watch the cringe-worthy aftermath of her trying to explain why she did what she did. Spoiler ... it's got something to do with a crackpot theory about dispelling phlegm, to get rid of the virus. She also brought up "dumb blondes." Complete article

Video of incident on Facebook.


Woman sprays cashier in eyes with Lysol disinfectant at Leicester Mass. Walmart after being told there was limit on number of cans she could buy, police say 04/06/2020

A woman is accused of spraying a Leicester Walmart employee in the eyes with Lysol disinfectant after being told there was a limit on the number of cans of the cleaning agent she could buy, police said.

The alleged assault took place at the Walmart Supercenter on Soojian Drive on March 27, police said in a statement Monday.

A cashier informed the woman there was a limit on the number of Lysol disinfectant cans she could purchase. The woman is suspected of responding by spraying the employee in the eyes with the liquid, according to the statement. Complete article


Trussville Alabama Walmart parking lot littered with gloves, masks 04/05/2020

TRUSSVILLE — It seems the use of masks and gloves to stop the spread of coronavirus is not always as responsible as it may seem on the surface. In fact, the surface of the parking lot at Walmart in Trussville is proof of that. On Friday, April 3, the CDC officially recommended people wear PPE (personal protective equipment) while in public.

With an increased number of people using PPE, comes an increased amount of litter. Gloves and masks are being left behind in local parking lots.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends another way to dispose of your potentially-contaminated PPE: Dispose of it in a waste container. Complete article


Oregon Walmart shoppers weigh in on new customer limits 04/04/2020

Deputies Seek Suspect in Big Rapids Mich. Walmart Assault Investigation 04/06/2020

Chattanooga Tenn. shoppers react to new Walmart guidelines 04/04/2020

Masked pair steal wallet at Carson City Nevada Walmart, run up $2k on credit card at Douglas store 04/05/2020

Quarantine prep at Fla. Walmart? They swiped toilet paper, paper towels and cases of Corona 04/05/2020

Haymarket Va. Police Help Enforce Social Distancing at Walmart 04/05/2020

Rumor Control: Walmart worker living in Barefoot Bay Fla. does not have Coronavirus 04/05/2020

After Ill. Walmart Worker Dies From Coronavirus, His Family Sues 04/06/2020

The family of a 51-year-old Walmart employee who died after exhibiting symptoms consistent with the coronavirus has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the retailer.

Wando Evans, who worked as an overnight stock and maintenance worker at a store in the Chicago area for 15 years, died on March 25, 2020, from apparent complications of the coronavirus. A second employee from the same store, 49-year-old Phillip Thomas, also died, on March 29, 2020, after exhibiting symptoms consistent with COVID-19.

In a lawsuit filed on Monday, the family alleges that Evans contracted the virus while working at a store in Evergreen Park, Illinois, and told his manager that he was experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19. He was sent home on March 23, 2020, where he was found dead two days later.

According to the complaint, the family is alleging willful and wanton misconduct and reckless disregard, saying that Walmart failed to both develop preventative procedures to limit the spread of the virus as well as adequately respond in the event that a worker came forward with symptoms. For instance, they say that workers were not warned and the store remained open after the employees became ill. Complete article


Man accused of coughing on Henry County Tenn. Walmart customers, claiming he had COVID-19 04/06/2020

PARIS, Tenn. (WKRN) — A man was arrested after coughing on people inside of a Walmart in Henry County and yelling that he had the coronavirus, according to the district attorney’s office.

In a statement released Monday, District Attorney General Matthew Stowe said the 24-year-old man, whose name was not immediately released, was charged with the violation of the terrorism hoax act, reckless endangerment and disorderly conduct.

No other information was provided about the incident. Complete article


Man arrested for coughing on Mandan ND Walmart employees, claiming he has COVID-19 04/06/2020

A Bismarck man was arrested Saturday accused of coughing on Walmart employees.

Mandan Police say 65 year old Thomas Rensch coughed on two Walmart employees and told them he had coronavirus.

Police say Rensch said he was upset one of the main entrances to the store was locked.

According to the affidavit, Rensch told the employees he had tested positive for the virus and hoped they would contract it. Complete article


Pair arrested after failing to scan items in self-checkout lane at Fla. Wal-Mart 04/06/2020

Suspect wanted in Opelika Alabama for theft at Walmart Super Center 04/07/2020

Ohio Police calls: Two women caught stealing meat at Walmart 04/06/2020

Coronavirus-Inspired Panic Shopping Spikes Walmart Sales 20% in March 04/06/2020

Man fatally shoots himself in parking lot of Clio Mich.-area Walmart 04/07/2020

VIENNA TWP, MI – A 31-year-old Birch Run man shot and killed himself Monday afternoon in the parking lot outside a Vienna Township Walmart, police said.

Genesee County sheriff deputies were called around 4:30 p.m. Monday, April 6 for a report of a shooting at the store, 11493 N. Linden Road, near M-57.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson said a sheriff’s patrol vehicle had been in the parking lot doing a routine patrol check less than one minute before the call went out.

Witnesses told police the man, whose name has not been released, jumped onto the trunk of his vehicle with a 20-gauge shotgun in hand.

“He fired one shot in the air,” said Swanson. “None of the witnesses said they thought they were in a direct line of fire.”

The man then turned the gun on himself.

Swanson noted the man’s family told police he’d been “battling with depression and thought he was acting strange” on Monday. Complete article


Sidney Ohio Police report gunfire in Walmart parking lot 04/07/2020

SIDNEY, Ohio (WDTN) – Sidney Police were dispatched to a Walmart parking lot Tuesday, April 7, after reports of a female shooting at a male.

Witnesses told authorities the female shooter was pointing the gun out of her car window while following the male driver closely in the parking lot of the Sidney Walmart.

The male eventually stopped his car near the lawn and garden center. The shooter then fired her gun hitting the back of his truck and fleeing the scene afterwards.

Officers arrested the shooter at her house shortly after she fled. Complete article


Woman died after collapsing at Jasper Tx. WalMart 04/07/2020

Jasper Police Lieutenant Garrett Foster said Tuesday that a heart attack is believed to be the cause of death for a woman after she collapsed at WalMart at 800 West Gibson Street.

Foster said the woman was loaded into an ambulance and despite efforts to save her, she died either in the ambulance or shortly after arrival at Jasper Memorial Hospital.

The name of the woman was not available. Complete article


Employee From Salem Market Basket And Lynn Mass. Walmart Dies After Coronavirus Diagnosis 04/07/2020

SALEM, Mass. (CBS) – A Market Basket associate from the Salem store died after being diagnosed with coronavirus, the company confirmed on Tuesday. The woman also worked at Walmart in Lynn, her husband said.

The news came just hours after workers rallied for better protections.

A Market Basket spokeswoman said the woman, identified by her husband as 59-year-old Vitalina Williams, last worked in the Massachusetts grocery store on March 26. Her husband, David Williams, said Vitalina started feeling sick about two weeks ago, she left work early, and after a couple of days, he took her to the emergency room.

“My last memory of her, seeing her sitting there in her coat, her little hat and leaving her at the emergency room. I couldn’t even stay with her.” David Williams said. “They put her on a respirator almost immediately and she passed away a week later.” Complete article


Little Rock Arkansas Walmart employee tests positive for COVID-19, co-worker claims store did not protect employees 04/07/2020

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — An employee at a Little Rock Walmart is concerned for his safety and accusing the store of not doing enough to protect employees after a coworker tested positive for COVID-19.

The employee works at the Walmart at the corner of Cantrell Avenue and Chenal Parkway.

He spoke anonymously over fears he could lose his job.

“Our managers aren’t really listening to us and we don’t have anyone to bring this to without retaliation,” the employee said.

He says management met with employees in groups that did not meet social distancing guidelines to inform them that a coworker tested positive for the virus. Complete article


Worker at Yankton SD Walmart pharmacy tests positive for COVID-19 04/07/2020

YANKTON, S.D. -- A worker at the Walmart Pharmacy in Yankton has tested positive for COVID-19, state health officials said Tuesday.

The employee, who was not identified, worked two days, March 25 and March 30, while able to transmit the virus to others, the South Dakota Department of Health said in a news release.

Due to the risk of exposure, customers who visited the pharmacy March 25 between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. should monitor themselves for symptoms through April 8, the department said. Customers who visited on March 30 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. should monitor themselves for symptoms through April 13.

A screening tool is available at covid.sd.gov, which can help recommend when to call a medical provider if you develop symptoms. Complete article


Hesston couple who coughed, claimed ‘he has coronavirus’ at Newton Kansas Walmart arrested 04/07/2020

A Hesston couple caught on cellphone video repeatedly coughing and claiming “he has coronavirus” during a shopping trip Monday at the Newton Walmart has been arrested on suspicion of criminal threat and disorderly conduct, according to a Newton police official.

What motivated Hazel Hamrick, 29, and Ernest Williams, 47, to play such a prank on already uneasy shoppers and store employees? Newton Deputy Chief Scott Powell said the couple “was trying to be funny.”

“They aren’t taking this COVID-19 pandemic seriously. They think it’s all overblown,” Powell told The Eagle. Complete article

Kansas couple that coughed, claimed ‘he has coronavirus’ at Walmart charged with felonies 04/30/2020


CAUGHT ON CAMERA: In the middle of pandemic, Savannah mayor helps break up fight at Walmart 04/08/2020

SAVANNAH, Ga. — Above video: Fight at Savannah Walmart

A disturbing scene at an area Walmart - a fight caught on camera and Savannah's mayor there to help break it up.

You can see the incident in viewer video of the scene: a Friday night fight breaking out in the aisles of the Walmart on Montgomery Crossroads.

Also on the scene, the Mayor of Savannah, Van Johnson. Complete article


Walmart Hasn’t Adopted ‘Staggered Shopping’ Based on Age 047/0/2020

Ca. Walmart helps stock SVMC kitchen 04/08/2020

Pennsylvania State Police Mansfield investigating recent thefts from Walmart 04/07/2020

Cleveland man arrested urinating in front of Walmart: Brooklyn Ohio Police Blotter 04/08/2020

Video of shoplifter wanted for stealing SC Walmart TV 04/07/2020

3 Walmart locations in New Orleans La. metro to close for one day for cleaning due to COVID-19 04/08/2020

Pa. Walmart cuts off crafters 04/08/2020

Woman hit in parking lot of Lake City SC Walmart 04/08/2020

LAKE CITY, SC — A woman is in the hospital after she was hit by a car Wednesday afternoon in the parking lot of the Walmart on Highway 52 in Lake City, according to Lake City Police Chief Kipp Coker.

Coker said the woman was walking out of the parking lot when she was hit.

He added she appears to have suffered minor injuries and is expected to be okay. Complete article


3 Nevada Walmart workers at 1 store test positive for coronavirus 04/08/2020

Three Walmart employees at a store in North Las Vegas have tested positive for the coronavirus, a store source has told the Review-Journal.

This comes amid word of more positive tests among workers at other grocery stores in the Las Vegas Valley, including those at Smith’s Food and Drug, and Vons and Costco in the last week.

A Walmart corporate spokesman refused to confirm the positive cases, citing privacy. Complete article


These Walmart Employees Are Scared For Their Lives Working Through The Coronavirus Pandemic 04/08/2020

WASHINGTON — Every day, as Sarah leaves work, she washes her hands and sprays the soles of her shoes with Lysol. When she gets home, she reaches one arm into the house and grabs a bag with a change of clothes she left that morning on the table by the front door.

Then, she changes her clothes outside, sprays her work clothes with Lysol, and puts them in a plastic bag. Once she gets inside, she immediately washes her work clothes and takes a shower.

As an employee at Walmart in Texas, Sarah is considered an essential worker, staffing a store that’s among the rare US businesses still open during the coronavirus outbreak.

Several weeks ago, during the first week of March, she approached her manager about having hand sanitizer at the cash registers.

“She told us no,” said Sarah, who asked that only her first name be used because she is concerned about retaliation for speaking publicly about the conditions at her store. “[The manager] said there's some in the cash office, which is locked. … You can just ask them, but that's not really feasible. We can't stop and ask somebody to come up there [and] unlock a door so we can use hand sanitizer. Turns out, there wasn't even any in there.” Complete article


Amazon, Walmart and the low-income grocery-shopping divide exposed by the coronavirus 04/08/2020

As more Americans are forced to stay at home and practice social distancing, the income and internet divide is becoming clear in new ways for those who rely on food-assistance programs. And their ranks are likely to skyrocket due to the sharp rise in unemployment during this coronavirus-led economic downturn.

While many adults can access groceries and food-delivery services, food stamp recipients are limited in these options. Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, as well as advocates for low-income Americans, are questioning why most states still lack a critical internet-based service for food delivery when the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the SNAP program, has piloted an online program for years.

SNAP is available to households that meet income requirements related to the U.S. federal poverty line (about $28,000 for a family of three) and have less than $2,250 in cash or a bank account.

Shawna Hinson is one of at least 35 million Americans who receive SNAP benefits. As a disabled, severely immunocompromised leukemia survivor, Hinson tries to avoid direct contact with people to reduce her risk of exposure. She is also a single parent to three children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

When Hinson finished online grocery shopping from Hy-Vee, she went as far as the checkout page before realizing they do not accept food stamps as a method of payment. Only one grocery delivery service in her area accepts that form of payment online, but they require a $50 minimum purchase and have higher prices for essential groceries (USDA says SNAP benefits cannot be used to cover delivery fees specifically). Complete article

Salvation Army, Walmart launch virtual food drive 04/08/2020


Tucson Walmart stores participate in SNAP pilot program 04/09/2020

TUCSON, Ariz. — The United States Department of Agriculture has given the green light to launch the SNAP Online Purchase Pilot program in Arizona.

With many people choosing to buy groceries online, not everyone had the option. That's why states were asking the USDA to expand the program during the pandemic to help people under stay-at-home orders.

Now, the program is available at Arizona Walmart storeswhere pickup and/or delivery is available.

“We continue to be excited to be part of the USDA’s pilot program and to be able to make our Grocery Pickup and Delivery service available to more and more people, regardless of their payment method. Now more than ever, customers are relying on our pickup and delivery services to give them access to quality, fresh groceries, and we believe that shouldn’t be dictated by how you pay.” Complete article


Smoked ham photo lands Walmart in court 04/07/2020

Walmart Inc was sued on Tuesday by an advertising agency that claimed the world’s largest retailer used its copyrighted photo of a smoked ham without permission.

Adlife Marketing & Communications Co, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, said Walmart’s depiction of “Sahlen’s Smokehouse Ham, Deli Sliced” on its website violated the federal Copyright Act.

To read the full story on Westlaw Practitioner Insights, click here: bit.ly/34ldb5t Complete article


Walmart in Garfield NJ to close Thursday for deep cleaning 04/08/2020

Auburn NY Walmart briefly evacuated after bomb threat 04/0/2020

COVID-19 forces temporary Shreveport La. Walmart closure 04/09/2020

Arkansas Walmart says little on virus-testing site 04/08/2020 Walmart Inc. still isn't saying where in Bentonville its new drive-thru covid-19 testing site is located, but a spokeswoman said Tuesday it is on a Walmart property. Gov. Asa Hutchinson said Monday the pilot testing site had a "soft opening" on Sunday. The site will serve first responders and health care workers who may have been exposed to the coronavirus, as well as people 65 and older who show symptoms of the illness.

Man arrested for alleged Tx. Walmart crime spree in February 04/08/2020

Stuck in a Hallandale Fla. Walmart parking lot after coronavirus stalls global trek 04/09/2020

Power outage prompted closing of Giant Eagle, Walmart, others in Boardman Ohio 04/08/2020

Two arrested after Oregon Walmart shoplift goes sideways 04/08/2020

Maine Hannaford, Shaw’s and Walmart Will Be Closed on Easter Sunday 04/09/2020

Plainfield sex offender inhaled aerosal spray, smashed into car at Ill. Walmart: records 04/09/2020

A convicted sex offender who was intoxicated from inhaling aerosol spray smashed his van into an unoccupied sedan in the parking lot of the Walmart on Route 59, according to police and court records.

About 4 p.m. Wednesday, officers went to the 1401 Route 59 Walmart in response to a report of a vehicle crash, according to a Joliet police news release.

The officers arrived at the parking lot and determined a burgundy Dodge van had crashed into a silver sedan, police said.

The officers made contact with Timothy Carpenter, 37, of the 23500 block of West Anderson Street in Plainfield, who was the driver of the van, police said. Carpenter was intoxicated and actively inhaling aerosol spray from a canister, police said. Complete article


Employee at Pa. Walmart along Lincoln Highway East tests positive for COVID-19 04/10/2020

EAST LAMPETER TOWNSHIP, Pa. — WGAL has confirmed an employee at the Walmart in East Lampeter Township, Lancaster County, has tested positive for the coronavirus.

A manager said the store along Lincoln Highway East is following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for cleaning.

The manager also said other employees and shoppers who do not feel well are being asked to stay home. Complete article


Walmart, Costco and Target stores in these areas are barred from selling nonessential items 04/09/2020

Walmart donates food to Cherokee Nation elders 04/09/2020

Updated: COVID-19 forces temporary New Orleans’ Walmart closures 04/09/2020

Grocery workers are beginning to die of coronavirus 04/06/2020 At least four people – who had worked at Walmart, Trader Joe's and Giant – have died from covid-19 in recent days. (Two workers at one Illinois Walmart and one more at another in Massachusetts died of Coronovirus meaning this is at least five now. Several more deaths as well at Walmarts which may not have been linked to Coronavirus.)

Walmart CEO says company sold enough toilet paper in 5 days for every American to have a roll 04/10/2020

Coronavirus deaths: Forest Park Ill. Walmart worker dies from COVID-19 04/11/2020

FOREST PARK, Ill. (WLS) -- An employee of a Walmart in Forest Park has died from COVID-19.

He was identified only by his first name, Francisco, in a Facebook post by the store Friday.

"We are devastated to hear of Francisco's passing and our hearts go out to his family, he will be greatly missed by his Forest Park Walmart family," the store wrote on their Facebook page.

The post continued to say that Walmart is taking additional steps to sanitize key areas in that store. Complete article

Workers in Fayetteville NC Hardee's, Walmart test positive for virus 04/10/2020

City Health Officials: 2 COVID-19 cases tied to Abilene Tx. south-side Walmart 04/10/2020

Three Walmart workers in Hastings Nebraska identified as having COVID-19 04/10/2020

Walmart opens third testing site 04/11/2020


Fort Bliss soldier whose heroism story during Tx. Walmart shooting drew questions found dead 04/10/2020

A soldier, whose story of heroism during the Aug. 3 Walmart mass shooting drew questions before he later was arrested for desertion, was found dead in his quarters, Fort Bliss officials confirmed Friday.

Pvt. Glendon Oakley, 23, of Killeen, Texas, was found dead in his on-post quarters Wednesday, a news release from the post said. The death is under investigation by U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, but no foul play is suspected at this point.

Oakley told major television networks that he saved children during the mass shooting that left 22 dead at an East Side Walmart. He claimed he, along with others, rushed to save three children when they heard gunshots near stores at Cielo Vista Mall, which is near the Walmart. Oakley was recognized by President Donald Trump during a visit to El Paso on Aug. 7 and was awarded the Army Commendation Medal.

But his story came into question when police confirmed there was only one shooter, who attacked at the Walmart and not at the mall.

He later was arrested for desertion in October by Harker Heights police in his vehicle, 5 miles away from Killeen. Complete article


Arrest made in Pueblo West Walmart armed robbery 04/1/2020

PUEBLO WEST, Colo. — A 46-year-old man was arrested Friday afternoon in connection with an armed robbery at the Walmart store in Pueblo West on Thursday night.

Pueblo County Sheriff’s deputies responded to Walmart, 78 N. McCulloch Blvd., at about 7 p.m. Thursday after an employee reported he stopped a man as he was trying to leave the store after he saw the man put several items in a bag without paying for them.

According to deputies, the employee said the suspect pushed him several times and walked out of the store. The employee followed the man to the parking lot where the suspect pulled out a knife and threatened him. The suspect then got into a blue GMC Acadia and left north on McCulloch Blvd. Complete article


Walmart Brawl video at undisclosed time or location 04/10/2020

Complete article


Man cited after carrying rifle into Walmart, police say 04/10/2020

ASH FLAT, Ark. (KAIT) - A man was cited Friday for disorderly conduct and criminal trespass after police say he walked into the Walmart in Ash Flat with a rifle, according to Ash Flat police.

According to Ash Flat Officer Blair Ables, police went to Walmart after getting a call about the man.

The man, whose name was not released, was escorted for the building and said that carrying the weapon into the store was an exercise of his Second Amendment rights, Ables said.

Officials said the weapon was not loaded and that the man, who was carrying the weapon in a sling across his back, did not threaten anyone inside the store. Complete article


Employee concerns remain at Pa. Walmart, HBC 04/11/2020

Employees at the Walmart and Hudson’s Bay Co. LLC distribution centers at Highridge Business Park told The Republican-Herald this week about more cases of coronavirus at their workplaces.

They spoke on the condition of anonymity, fearing repercussions.

An order filler said management informed employees at the Walmart facility of 26 positive cases of COVID-19. A forklift operator said management told employees of 33 positive cases.

“It seems to be doubling,” the forklift operator said. Complete article


'There's a T-Rex in Walmart!' People are now wearing dinosaur suits to go grocery shopping, and people on Twitter are thanking them for it 04/12/2020

On April 1, Sebastian Dominguez swaggered into a Target wearing an inflatable T-Rex costume.

The Hollywood, Florida man was recorded by his wife, Aurora Dominguez, as he waddled about in the store and struggled to reach products with his tiny dino arms. His friendly rampage was chronicled in the Miami Herald, and his costume was described by Aurora as "part joke, part safety measure."

Surprisingly, this isn't the first, or even second or third time someone has worn this exact T-Rex costume to go grocery shopping. On March 17, two children accompanied by their mother dressed as dinos for their H-E-B shopping trip in Leon Springs, Texas. The girls, eight and 10, had obtained permission from the H-E-B store to shop in costume.

The same day, Washington, DC blog Popville posted a picture obtained by a reader of a shopper dressed as a T-Rex in a grocery market.

Those are just the incidents that made the news. However, wearing a T-Rex suit to go grocery shopping has apparently become fairly common across the country. Now that face coverings are recommended in public, it's just one of the many creative ways people have come up with to protect themselves — and entertain others. Complete article


Customer shares story of generous Fla. Walmart employee 04/10/2020

Walmart CEO: Hair dye is next ‘panic buying’ item 04/11/2020

Debunking this week’s untruths about quinine, 5G, Walmart, Obama 04/11/2020

Ill. Walmart Sued | First Female Principal | Workers Walk Out 04/11/2020

Victim of Ind. Walmart beating in March dies 04/11/2020

The man attacked with a baseball bat as he walked out of the Walmart on Apple Glen Boulevard a month ago has died.

DeMarcus Walker, 44, of Fort Wayne, died this morning, apparently while he was asleep, Larry Gist, a family friend and chairman of the local NAACP legal redress committee, said. Gist said he received a call from the family about 8 a.m.

The Allen County Coroner came to pick up Walker’s body from the distraught family, said Gist, who held a news conference with the family and media March 11, a few days after the March 7 attack. The family believed the attack was racially motivated and called it a hate crime.

Levi Arnold, 21, of Bluffton, was charged March 10 with attempted murder, aggravated battery when the assault poses a substantial risk of death and resisting law enforcement in a vehicle.

Walker, a maintenance supervisor at New Generation Management, was walking toward his car in the Walmart parking lot that morning when Arnold struck him while driving a 2009 red Chevy Impala. Arnold then got out of the car and beat Walker with a baseball bat. Complete article


Burglars break into Tx. Walmart pharmacy overnight in Harris County 04/12/2020

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — Deputies south of Humble are investigating a reported break-in at a Walmart store overnight.

It happened at the store along Beltway 8 and Wilson around 1:40 a.m. Sunday.

A Harris County Sheriff’s Office captain reported the suspects got into the closed store and then broke into the pharmacy. It’s unknown what, if anything, was taken from the health facility. Complete article


Albany woman charged with making terroristic threat at East Greenbush NY Walmart 04/11/2020

EAST GREENBUSH, N.Y. — East Greenbush police say they've arrested an Albany woman accused of making a terroristic threat at Walmart.

According to police, Latoya Fordham, entered the East Greenbush Walmart on April 3 and attempted to steal $3,000 worth of merchandise.

When store security confronted her, they say Fordham spit at them and stated she had coronavirus.

According to store security, they then locked themselves in their office while Fordham attempted to gain entry by kicking the door. Complete article


Employee at Warrenton Missouri Walmart pharmacy tests positive for COVID-19 04/11/2020

WARRENTON, Mo. (KMOV.com) - An employee at the pharmacy of the Walmart in Warrenton has tested positive for COVID-19, health officials said.

Officials are asking anyone that visited the pharmacy between April 1-April 5 to watch for symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat and shortness of breath for 14 days after your visit. If you display such symptoms, call a medical provider immediately, health officials say.

Officials say those only those who visited the pharmacy should watch for symptoms, it does not apply to anyone was at the store but not at the pharmacy. Complete article


Walmart worker tests positive for COVID-19 in Cumberland County, NC officials say 04/11/2020

FAYETTEVILLE, NC (WNCN) — Cumberland County officials announced Friday that a Fayetteville Walmart worker had tested positive for COVID-19 and that there was possible exposure to customers.

The person who tested positive worked at the Walmart at 2820 Gillespie Street, according to an email from Cumberland County spokeswoman Sally Shutt.

“The person is a Cumberland County resident and the Health Department is investigating and reaching out to individuals who may have been in contact with the person who tested positive,” the news release said.

The Walmart worker’s COVID-19 case brings the number of cases to in Cumberland County to 75 — a number that has tripled in just 10 days, the news release said. Complete article


Police investigate theft of more than $7,700 in merchandise from Arnold Missouri Walmart 04/11/2020

Overdose At Concord NH Walmart Leads To Charge, Trespass Order: Log 04/09/2020

Walmart sees surge in demand for certain products 04/13/2020

Police investigating ‘suspicious’ death behind Walmart in Durango Colorado 04/12/2020

46-year-old man found unconscious, not breathing.

The Durango Police Department is investigating a suspicious death that occurred Sunday behind Walmart in Durango.

Police and medics were notified at 2:50 p.m. of an unconscious man not breathing and blue in color. Someone on scene began CPR efforts until medics arrived. Medics continued CPR efforts, but life-saving measures were ultimately unsuccessful, said Cmdr. Jacob Dunlop with the Durango Police Department.

“There were some potential suspicious circumstances, which are leading us to conduct a thorough investigation before we make a determination as to whether it was natural causes or not,” Dunlop said.

The victim had lived in the area for “a little while,” Dunlop said. An identification card listed a Durango address, but it was unknown if he was currently living at that address.

The man associated with members of the homeless community, and he was found in a tent behind Walmart, but the tent did not belong to the victim, Dunlop said. Complete article

Durango police identify man found dead behind Walmart 04/14/2020


Body of male senior citizen discovered in Vineland NJ Walmart parking lot 04/12/2020

VINELAND — The body of a deceased 65-year-old male was found Saturday morning in the parking lot of the Walmart on West Landis Ave., said Sgt. Justin Selby on Sunday morning.

At 7:02 a.m., the police received a phone call from a Walmart employee that a body was lying in the parking lot outside of the building, and the caller did not think the person was breathing, Selby said.

EMS and the police arrived on the scene. From the initial investigation, it appears the man died of natural causes, but an autopsy will be conducted to confirm, Selby said. Complete article


‘Just wait in line!’ Watch a fight break out between Walmart shoppers in Miami Fla. 04/10/2020

Shopping trips are getting tense as the coronavirus pandemic drags on.

On Thursday morning, Manny Prades was outside Walmart at 8400 Coral Way waiting in line to return a bike.

Other people were queued up, practicing social distancing in between yellow police tape and a row of shopping carts, when a fight suddenly broke out.

In Prades’ video, you see the two men locked together in battle, clinching each other almost in slow motion. Complete article


La. Walmart Workers Say They Face A Choice: Their Safety Or Their Paycheck 04/09/2020

Maya Smith works as a cashier at a Walmart in New Orleans. She is 21 years old, the breadwinner in her household, and she just walked out in protest of her workplace conditions.

Maya needs the paycheck to support herself and her family, but she worried she was putting her life and loved ones at risk every time she went to work.

“We’re just open. We interact with everyone. We touch everything," she said. "It’s really unsafe and unsanitary to be working in those conditions, knowing what’s going on.”

Last week, the stakes were raised even more when one of Maya’s co-workers tested positive for coronavirus. According to Maya, her supervisors did little to ensure that others didn’t become infected. They did not disclose the name of their sick coworker or provide any testing to those that came into contact with them. And, she said, several workers were sent home without pay for wearing masks. Complete article


Unsanitized: ‘I Have No Protection … Only a Stupid Blue Vest,’ Walmart Worker Says 04/12/2020

While Amazon has taken plenty of heat for its worker safety measures during the COVID-19 outbreak, criticism of Walmart, another big winner in this crisis, has been more muted. In-store sales rose 20 percent at Walmart in March, at a time when everyone is supposed to be distancing (sales on Walmart.com were up 30 percent). Any crowded location right now will heighten danger. Earlier in April, Walmart announced that two employees in a store outside Chicago died from the coronavirus.

“My brother is more than just a number, more than a statistic,” said Angela McMiller, the sister of Phillip Thomas, one of the dead Walmart workers, in a conference call on Friday arranged by the worker advocacy group United for Respect. “The Walmart [Phillip and Wando Evans, whose family is suing the company] work at is always crowded. They didn’t have any gloves or masks to protect themselves. What’s it going to take for [Walmart] to take this epidemic seriously? How many more people have to die?”

Walmart, of course, says they are taking the pandemic seriously. On March 31, the CEOs of Walmart U.S. and Sam’s Club put out a written communication outlining significant steps already taken: social distancing at stores, deep cleaning of locations, Plexiglass shields at checkout, wipes and sprayers for all carts, and emergency leave for workers dealing with COVID-19. The memo added new measures: all associates would get screening questions and temperature checks when starting shifts, and anyone with a fever over 100.0 would be sent home with pay and asked to remain there until they have three fever-free days. It also said all Walmart workers would receive masks and gloves “as supplies permit.” These would arrive within 1-2 weeks, so by now, all locations should have them. Complete article

NC Walmart worker tests positive for COVID-19, officials say 04/12/2020

Walmart's Bentonville Arkansas testing site open 04/12/2020

Walmart to hire more than 100,000 in COVID-19 response; family sues over death 04/11/2020

‘No farms, no food, no Walmart.’ Idaho agriculture industry grapples with coronavirus 04/12/2020


Walmart Stock Has Entered a Period of High Volatility 04/12/2020

Retail giant Walmart Inc. (WMT) had a winning streak of beating earnings per share estimates in seven consecutive quarters. This came to an end on Feb. 18, when the company missed expectation. As a result of this miss, the stock entered a period of extreme volatility. Walmart shares traded as low as $102.00 on March 16 and then traded as high as $128.08 on March 18 for a spike of 25%. This range remains in play, with extreme volatility in between.

Walmart is a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, and the stock has posted a gain of just 2.5% year to date, although it is in bull market territory at 23.2% above its low of $98.85 posted on May 9, 2019. The stock is 4.9% below its high of $128.08 posted on March 18, 2020. Walmart stock is not cheap, as its P/E ratio is 24.66 with a dividend yield of 1.77%, according to Macrotrends. Complete article


Police looking for couple who stole from SC Walmart 04/13/2020

Teen arrested after allegedly attempting to steal items at Fla. Wal-Mart in The Villages 04/13/2020

Multiple Maryland residents charged in alleged theft at Mount Airy Walmart 04/13/2020

ICYMI: Another Walmart in New Orleans La. closing for deep cleaning 04/13/2020

Passerby gives CPR to man found on ground outside Twin City Missouri Walmart, he dies anyway 04/13/2020

A Good Samaritan found a 70-year-old Festus man lying on the parking lot outside the Twin City Walmart at about 1:45 p.m. April 10 and gave him CPR, hoping to save him. Sadly, the man later died from cardiac arrest, authorities reported.

“It was on the west end of the parking lot (at 650 S. Truman Blvd.),” Festus Police Chief Tim Lewis said. “A 46-year-woman was already giving CPR to him when paramedics arrived. She said she saw him lying on the ground and began giving chest compressions. Another man there called 911.”

Lewis identified the woman who administered the CPR as Christy Buehler of Festus.

A witness to the incident, Megan Laut of Festus, said she was touched by Buehler’s efforts to help the man. Complete article


Barstow man arrested after threatening to shoot Ca. Walmart employee who asked him to wear a face-covering 04/13/2020

BARSTOW, Calif. (VVNG.com) — A 22-year-old Barstow man was arrested after allegedly threatening to shoot a Walmart employee who informed him he needed to wear a face-covering due to the COVID-19 pandemic, officials said.

It happened inside the Walmart at 301 Montara Road in Barstow on April 12, 2020.

Officer Kenneth Jones with the Barstow Police Department was dispatched to the store reference a male subject who had threatened one of the employees. According to a news release, Officer Jones contacted the victim and learned that the employee had approached a male subject who was shopping in the store and informed him that he needed a face covering to continue shopping.

“The employee explained that Walmart implemented a policy requiring a face cover of its customers due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated the release. “The male subject became upset about the face covering policy, refused to leave the store, made mention of a gun and then threatened to shoot the employee in the head.” Complete article


Man arrested after Ariz. Walmart lot wreck; 0.173 BAC detected 04/13/2020

COTTONWOOD — Jose Angel Castro, 24, of Cottonwood, was arrested Friday afternoon after police say he had a parking-lot accident and turned out to have a breath alcohol concentration more than twice the legal limit.

Friday, at about 4:45 p.m., according to a news release, Cottonwood police officers responded to the Walmart parking lot for a hit-and-run accident, with the driver possibly impaired.

Another caller said the suspect, after striking another vehicle with his truck, parked by the grocery pick-up, got out and gestured toward someone as if he wanted to fight.

When officers arrived, the suspect, later identified as Castro, saw officers and fled into a ditch nearby. After a short foot pursuit, Castro was taken into custody. Complete article


New York Mills man accused of assaulting officer at NY Walmart 04/13/2020

A New York Mills man is facing a felony assault charge after allegedly injuring an officer during an altercation at Walmart in New Hartford, according to the New Hartford Police Department.

Jose H. Burgos, 28, was charged with second-degree assault, petit larceny and resisting arrest stemming from an alleged shoplifting reported around 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the Commercial Drive store.

Police said officers spoke to store loss prevention upon arrival, learning that Burgos failed to scan items at the checkout counter. As officers attempted to arrest Burgos for petit larceny, a struggle ensued that resulted in an injury to an officer’s left knee, according to the police department. Complete article


Walmart Hid That It Was Under Criminal Investigation for Its Opioid Sales, Lawyers Say 04/13/2020

Walmart, a defendant in the massive lawsuit brought by states and municipalities around the country that accuses a broad range of companies of lax controls over opioid sales, failed to reveal that it had been under criminal investigation for similar conduct, according to plaintiffs in the case.

Linda Singer, a partner at Motley Rice, which represents multiple states, counties and municipalities in the litigation, alleges that the giant retailer engaged in “pervasive obstruction,” according to a letter sent late last month to the special master in charge of wrangling the evidence in the case, which is being heard in federal court in Cleveland.

The plaintiffs will seek to have the court sanction Walmart for its behavior.

In her letter to Special Master David Cohen, Singer cited a recent ProPublica article that revealed that the U.S. attorney of the Eastern District of Texas sought to charge the company criminally for its opioid dispensing practices. Walmart, which denies any criminality, avoided the charges by appealing to Trump appointees at the Justice Department, who repeatedly overruled the Texas prosecutors. Complete article


Fountain Colorado Walmart employee tests positive for COVID-19 04/13/2020

With more and more reported COVID-19 cases in El Paso County, the health department is reminding the public it is now more important than ever to stay at home.

11 News confirmed with El Paso County Public Health on Monday an employee tested positive for COVID-19 at the Fountain Walmart off Highway 85/87.

"Walmart has been very proactive about taking the necessary steps to ensure proper cleaning and disinfection, and other measures to help keep both employees and shoppers safe," Public Health Information Officer Michelle Hewitt wrote to 11 News. Complete article


Potential public exposure to COVID-19 at Walmart in Oneida NY 04/13/2020

ONEIDA, N.Y. — Members of the public may have been exposed to COVID-19 at the Walmart in Oneida, according to the Madison County Health Department.

The health department says that an individual who recently tested positive had visited the Walmart on 2024 Genesee Street in Oneida.

Anyone who visited the store on April 8 after 5:00 p.m. should self-monitor for symptoms, the health department says. Complete article


Walmart offering grocery pickup hour for only those at risk of virus 04/14/2020

Attention Walmart shoppers: Blocked entrance doors not a Lincoln Nebraska city code violation 04/14/2020

Walmart’s March online grocery sales nearly double over 2019 04/15/2020

Police arrest man suspected of robbing City National Bank inside a Okla. Walmart 04/14/2020

TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — Tulsa police arrested a Checotah man accused of robbing City National Bank inside the Walmart near 111th and Memorial on April 10.

Investigators say Daniel Rosson got away with cash and drove away from the scene in a four-door black sedan.

Rosson was arrested after police released surveillance pictures of him inside the store. Complete article


Impaired driver crashes into posts just outside Everett Wash. Walmart, police say 04/15/2020

EVERETT, Wash. -- A suspected impaired driver has been arrested after she crashed her car into the safety poles outside an Everett Walmart Tuesday evening.

It was right around 7 p.m. when the crash happened just in front of the store along SE Everett Mall Way, according to Aaron Snell with Everett Police.

The woman driving the car was taken to a local hospital to be evaluated for any injuries, Snell said. Meanwhile, investigators believe she was driving impaired due to an undetermined drug, according to Snell. Complete article


Police roundup: Logan County man arrested for spitting on WV Walmart merchandise 04/14/2020

LOGAN, W.Va. — Police in Logan County, West Virginia, arrested a man they said caused $2,500 in damage after spitting on merchandise at a Walmart store.

Daniel Damon Murphy, 43, of Logan, is facing charges of threats of terroristic acts and destruction of property, according to criminal complaints filed in Logan County Magistrate Court.

On April 4, Logan Police officers C.L. Carter and K.R. Conley responded to the Walmart at the Fountain Place Mall for reports of a man spitting on multiple items inside the store. Complete article


Two mothers denied entry into a Conn. Walmart, FOX61 got answers 04/14/2020

NEWINGTON, Conn. — Two single mothers were turned away from a Newington Walmart on the same day. Both were trying to grocery shop with their child. When Stephanie Tsui expressed frustration, she says the store threatened to call the police

"What is a single parent to do? I have no other choice," said Tsui. "You can’t tell me that I am the only single parent that is quarantining and social distancing from everyone outside of us." Tsui and another FOX61 viewer wrote to us to say they had been denied entry into the store with their child. Tsui says she and her son were wearing face masks when they were told by a manager that it’s “state law” for only one person to be allowed in at a time.

"She said you need to have somebody watch your child. I said if I had someone to watch my child I’d be at work," said Tsui. Complete article

Walmart responds to your concerns about a Newington store denying access 04/15/2020


Quest Diagnostics and Walmart partner on drive-thru NY COVID-19 testing facility 04/14/2020

CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. — Walmart and Quest Diagnostics have teamed up to set up a drive-thru COVID-19 testing center in Cheektowaga, according to the New York State Police.

On Tuesday, 2 On Your Side saw New York State troopers setting up cones in a Walmart parking lot on Walden Avenue in Cheektowaga.

A spokesperson from Quest Diagnostics says the drive thru testing facility is for all healthcare providers, first responders and anyone exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. Quest says all appointments will be drive thru, observed self-collection in the Walmart parking lot and will begin Wednesday. Complete article

COVID-19 testing site coming to East Syracuse NY Walmart parking lot 04/14/2020

Walmart says it will be running more than 20 coronavirus test sites in 10 states by the end of April 04/13/2020

Alabama Gov. Ivey launches new COVID-19 testing sites supported by Walmart, Quest Diagnostics 04/16/2020

COVID-19 testing sites coming to Montgomery Walmart stores 04/16/2020

Changes At Joliet Ill. Walmart Coronavirus Testing Site 04/15/2020


Coronavirus: Employees at two Sioux Falls SD Walmarts test positive for coronavirus, state says 04/13/2020

Employees at two different Walmarts in Sioux Falls tested positive for coronavirus, according to a Monday announcement from state officials.

An employee at the Walmart in eastern Sioux Falls on Arrowhead Parkway and an employee at the Walmart in southern Sioux Falls near 85th Street and South Minnesota Avenue told officials they were working while being able to spread COVID-19 to others, according to the South Dakota Department of Health. Complete article

Cashier at East Greenbush NY Walmart tests positive for COVID-19; county jumps to 140 cases 04/14/2020

Second employee tests positive for COVID-19 at East Greenbush NY Walmart 04/14/2020

Target employee tests positive for COVID-19 in Shafter Ca. 04/12/2020


Alabama Small business owner: Walmart can sell clothes but why can't I during coronavirus pandemic? 04/14/2020

A letter written by The Locker Room owner George Wilder is calling for a different solution for small businesses during the coronavirus pandemic, a call that’s being amplified by the Alabama Retail Association.

“(The fact) that Walmart, for example, which is a high-traffic, high-volume store can be open and sell clothes, and we can’t, does not exactly make sense,” Wilder said in the letter. “… With most businesses closed, we now have the same number of consumers shopping in fewer stores, which does not lead to social distancing.”

Wilder said business at The Locker Room, which has locations in Montgomery and Auburn, was down 50% in March. Despite a focus on online business and work making masks for healthcare providers, they’re projecting an 80% drop in revenue for April and May. “The only way specialty retail will survive is with the help we hope to get from our government and returning to business in a way that is safe yet allows us to create sales,” Wilder wrote. Complete article


PayPal now available on Walmart.ca 04/15/2020

TORONTO, April 15, 2020 /CNW/ - PayPal is now available as a new payment option on Walmart.ca as more Canadians shop online for groceries and essentials than ever before, according to new research. A survey commissioned by PayPal in early April shows that 30 per cent of Canadians are shopping online for groceries. This marks a 58 per cent jump from a comparable survey conducted just four weeks earlier, before the coronavirus was declared a global pandemic.

Canadian consumers had already embraced online shopping before the pandemic, as 95 per cent reported in early March that they had made an online purchase. Before the health crisis, online grocery shopping was less popular, with only 19 per cent reporting engaging in the activity at the time. Now, the most recent survey shows close to one in three Canadians surveyed (30%) are shopping online to buy groceries. That survey also found that since the outbreak, more Canadians have started to shop online for essential items like household supplies (41% increase) and toiletries (33% increase), as well as other items like entertainment, toys and games (18% increase). Complete article


Commack NY Walmart closed Tuesday for cleaning 04/14/2020

Thieves hitting Tx. WalMart for non-essential items such as mouthful of fishing weights and 48 pair of underwear 04/14/2020

Person detained at Harrisburg Ill. Walmart after bomb threat 04/14/2020

Sumter Fla. sheriff searching for bandit who stole loaded cart from Villages Wal-Mart 04/15/2020

Detectives hunting for bandit who hit Fla. Villages Wal-Mart and fled in stolen van 04/15/2020

2 people stabbed at Walmart on E. State Street 04/15/2020

ROCKFORD (WREX) — Rockford Police say two people were stabbed at the Walmart on East State Street on Wednesday afternoon.

They say the injuries are non-life threatening. The stabbing allegedly happened in the entryway of the store.

Police have not announced whether a suspect is in custody, just that the investigation is underway. Complete article

Suspect arrested after two employees randomly stabbed at Rockford Walmart on E. State Street 04/15/2020


FBI: Would-be bomber considered Walmart HQ, Arkansas synagogue as targets 04/15/2020

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Missouri man who investigators say was planning to bomb a Kansas City-area hospital was distressed by the government’s response to the coronavirus crisis and motivated by racial, religious and anti-government animus, according to newly unsealed court documents.

Timothy Wilson, 36, of Raymore, died March 24 in a firefight with FBI agents serving a probable cause arrest warrant on a Belton street. The plot was reminiscent of the 1995 bombing of a federal building in Oklahoma City. Wilson first talked of plans for an attack in April or June, but FBI agents say he moved up that timeline as the coronavirus made its way to Missouri. The violent take-down followed a long-running domestic terrorism investigation that began in 2019 with Wilson’s encrypted communications about bomb-building with Jarrett William Smith, a 24-year-old Army infantry soldier who faces prison for distributing bomb-making information through social media. Complete article


Woman wants justice after group of men vandalize car in Walmart parking lot 04/15/2020

PEARLAND, Texas (KTRK) -- A woman is asking for justice after video surfaced of a group of men vandalizing her car in a Walmart parking lot.

"This is just something I did not want to be dealing with at this time," said Sydney Williams.

Just like everyone else, Williams has a lot on her mind, but yesterday her one-month-old car was damaged.

"It's my property. I worked hard for, so I'm angry," Williams said. Complete article


Walmart hires Richland Township Pa. police during pandemic 04/15/2020

Walmart is asking Richland Township police to provide security during the COVID-19 pandemic to enforce social distancing, authorities said.

The store, located at 150 Town Centre Drive, hired the police department for security three days a week mostly when older shoppers are there. The security measure took effect last week.

The open-ended contract calls for two officers, three days a week, four hours a day.

“The intent is to ensure a continued proper effect of social distancing,” township Vice Chairman Robert Heffelfinger said. Complete article


Former Walmart Exec To Lead eBay 04/15/2020

Jamie Iannone, chief operating officer of Walmart eCommerce, was recently named chief executive officer of digital commerce pioneer eBay Inc.

Iannone also will join the San Jose, Calif.-based company’s board of directors, said Thomas Tierney, eBay’s chairman. “The board believes Jamie is the ideal CEO to lead eBay’s next chapter of growth and success,” Tierney said. “We have all been impressed by his strong track record of innovation, execution, operational excellence and developing teams that drive results. Jamie has consistently delivered high growth during rapid periods of industry disruption, consumer change and technological advancement.”

Iannone spent the past 20 years leading digital commerce for major retailers. He served as CEO of SamsClub.com. He also worked as the executive vice president of digital products for Barnes & Noble, Inc. From 2001 to 2009, Iannone worked as a vice president and other executive jobs for eBay. Complete article


Walmart Possibly Making Major Changes to SNAP Transactions Nationwide 04/16/2020

Walmart is planning to make a number of changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) transactions nationwide amid the coronavirus pandemic. After the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot program in April of last year, Walmart announced Monday that it is working with the USDA to expand SNAP online purchasing transactions for pickup customers in more states, which would limit employee-customer contact. The pilot is currently available in Alabama, Arizona, California, Iowa, Nebraska, New York, Oregon, and Washington.

"Through the pilot, customers can complete EBT payments during online checkout instead of at the point of pickup," Tom Ward, Senior Vice President, Customer Product, Walmart, said in a Monday press release. "This eliminates all physical contact between associates and customers who want to use their SNAP benefits. Customers can also use EBT payment during online checkout when they choose the delivery option, where deliveries are available. Customers need us now more than ever, and we're here for them. Giving them more options to shop and pay is one way we can help." Complete article


Letters: I am very disappointed with Durango Colorado Walmart 04/16/2020

Ohio Walmart, food pantries partner to feed the Valley during virus outbreak 04/16/2020

Duo accused of stealing four TVs, other items from Orange County Va. Walmart 04/15/2020

Austintown Ohio police looking for man they say stole $500 worth of merchandise from Walmart 04/16/2020

Gillibrand urges Amazon and Walmart to waive delivery fees and minimum order requirements for SNAP recipients 04/15/2020

Thief sought after fleeing Fla. Villages Wal-Mart with $800 worth of merchandise 04/16/2020

Police: Woman Accused Of Shoplifting At Pa. Walmart Attacks Employee 04/16/2020

WEST BROWNSVILLE, Pa. (KDKA) – It was in a West Brownsville Walmart that state police say Tiffany Jane Good ran into problems when she allegedly tried a common theft tactic at the self check-out.

Trooper Robert Broadwater told KDKA “it’s called under-ringing.”

“She was scanning the Kool-Aid packets while filling the bags up with other items like clothing, groceries and food.”

What Good didn’t realize was the store loss prevention officer was on to her. When confronted by him, a bad situation for Good became worse.
Ross Guidotti ✔ @RossGuidotti

Tonight on KDKA State Police say Tiffany Good was up to no good when she allegedly tried to steal items from a Washington County Wal-Mart.. However when questioned the 31 year old struck a store employee in the head with a blunt object and ran.. Details tonight on KDKA
Complete article


Authorities: Man admits to setting fire behind a Walmart in Covina Ca.; suspected of other arsons 04/16/2020

A man has admitted to setting a fire behind a Walmart in Covina on Wednesday night, and police suspect him in other arson cases in the area, authorities said Thursday.

No people were hurt in a blaze that damaged a forklift and consumed several pallets behind the Walmart at 1275 N. Azusa Ave., at about 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, Covina Police Lt. Ryan Davis said.

The building was evacuated, and another two small fires were reported as crews responded to the initial incident, department officials said in a news release. One took place behind a business at 422 W. Arrow Hwy., and the other burned in a dumpster at Hollenbeck Park, 12150 N. Hollenbeck Ave. Complete article


Social media post identifies woman sought in Isabella Mich. Walmart squabble 04/16/2020

It took just a couple of hours Wednesday for the public to identify a woman accused of punching another woman who she accused of spitting on her in a squabble at the Mt. Pleasant Walmart.

Isabella sheriff's officials on Wednesday afternoon shared an image taken from surveilance video of the woman and had tips identifying her by name a short time later.

Sheriff Micheal Main said a 28-year-old Harrison woman said she was punched in the face after trying to excuse herself to get through a group in an aisle on Friday. Complete article


Fla. Walmart employees help find woman missing for more than a week 04/16/2020

Employees approached a deputy reporting hearing "strange" noises coming from the woods. A report that may have just saved Diane Mcinnis' life.

HOMOSASSA, Fla. — It all started with a routine traffic stop outside a Homosassa Walmart and ended with a report of "strange noises" coming from the woods that likely saved one Citrus County woman's life.

Diane Mcinnis had been missing for more than a week. Deputies with the Citrus County Sheriff's Office completed exhaustive searches with K9's, air support and volunteer search parties, but it was two Walmart employees who, unbeknownst to them, alerted deputies to her whereabouts.

Sgt. Callahan at the sheriff's office was alerted to the noises and after conducting a traffic stop, he began to investigate. That's when he heard the faint call of a woman's voice coming from the wooded area by the store.

Where did the voice lead? A five-foot deep ravine, where Mcinnis was stuck. Complete article


Walmart Is Setting An Example And Now It Must Live Up To Its Promises 04/15/2020

On Friday, I published a piece lauding Walmart for the example it is setting nationally. The point of the piece was simple — that Walmart, on the biggest scale imaginable, appears to intend to do all that it can to help people to work and to shop as safely as possible.

From implementing store traffic limits and installing plexiglass shields to sending out educational videos on how to shop online and encouraging Americans to “buy by week,” as Walmart CEO Doug McMillon did on the Today Show last Friday, Walmart is doing its early part to lead, which is what leaders do.

Leading, though, also means that there is no time for Walmart to rest on its laurels either and that talk is cheap. Based on the flood of messages I received over the weekend, detailing numerous examples of where Walmart was either making or missing the mark, there is still far more Walmart can and needs to do, even though its messaging is off to a great start. Complete article

Customers say Northeast El Paso Tx. Walmart not following social-distancing guidelines 04/16/2020

Coronavirus tests at E. Syracuse NY Walmart start this weekend for nursing home workers; Tuesday for others 04/16/2020

Two NJ Walmart locations to close Friday for cleaning 04/16/2020

Perry County Ky. Walmart worker tests positive, health department issues alert 04/16/2020

KRON4 Hero: 82-year-old Ca. Walmart employee continues to show up for work amid the coronavirus outbreak 04/16/2020

Walmart waives fees to new MoneyCard users, continues check-cashing service 04/16/2020


Did Walmart Give 50% of Its Profits to Trump 2020 Campaign? 04/15/2020 Labeled Satire

Man commits fraud and steals sweatshirt at Kennewick Wash. Walmart 04/16/2020

Refrigeration problem leaves shelves bare at Kirksville Missouri Walmart 04/16/2020

Reasonable skepticism advised

Woman Projectile Poops All Over Ohio Walmart Because She Got Caught Shoplifting 04/15/2020

41-year-old Dominca Dearing of Beachwood, Ohio was arrested after shoplifting from Walmart two days in a row but the real story is her unique, profoundly messy reaction to said arrest.

Dearing was spotted shoplifting from Walmart on April 3rd but was able to make it out of the store without being caught. However, store security and police were given her photo, so when she came back the next day, greedy for more “free” stuff, authorities were ready. Dearing was apprehended by Walmart loss prevention officers and taken back into the office area. It was determined Dearing had stolen $238.79 worth of items.

Then things got weird.

Dearing began screaming in an unidentified language, said her name was Tamicka Brown, and that she was from Pennsylvania.

Then, according to the Walmart loss prevention officer watching her, Dearing raised her dress up to her midsection and began projectile defecating all over the office while screaming that she had Coronavirus and needed treatment. The Walmart loss prevention officer immediately retreated into the corner of the office to avoid getting hit with Dearing’s flying poop and called for backup.

Officers arrived and cuffed Dearing who pooped again at the store’s entrance.

Ultimately, Dearing pleaded guilty to two counts of violating the county’s stay at home order — which specifies that any person coming into the county from out of town must quarantine for 14 days so as not to spread the Coronavirus — and two counts of larceny. All the charges are misdemeanors.

Dearing spent four days in the Haywood County Detention Center but otherwise was not sentenced to jail time. She was given a 45 day suspended sentence and 12 months of unsupervised probation. (Plea entered after only six days.) Complete article


Thief hid face with underwear while stealing Fla. Walmart electronics, sheriff says 04/17/2020

TAMPA — To help stop the spread of coronavirus, Hillsborough County leaders on Wednesday considered forcing people to don masks in stores.

The same day, Emiliano Santos was arrested for doing just that, deputies said. Except Santos’ mask was underwear, and he wore it while stealing electronics from one of several Walmart stores he’s suspected of hitting, deputies said.

“This repeat offender doesn’t seem to learn his lesson,” said Hillsborough Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I hope his third arrest for the same type of crime will be his final." Complete article


WATCH: Pickup Crashes Into Pole at Walmart 04/17/2020

SAN ANGELO, TX – A driver of a truck with a trailer attached drove on top of the pickup line pole at the Neighborhood Walmart on Friday.

On April 17, officers with the San Angelo Police Department were dispatched to the Neighborhood Walmart on Sherwood Way for the report of a truck that crashed into a pole.

When officers arrived they found a blue Ford truck with a black cargo trailer attached that had driven on top of a pole that indicated where patrons would line up for Walmart's pickup options. Complete article


Paw Paw Mich. Police search for woman accused of stealing from Walmart 04/16/2020

Walmart to require employees to wear face coverings 04/17/2020

In a letter sent to employees on Friday obtained by Scripps National, Walmart said it is requiring associates to wear face coverings while at work starting on Monday.

Walmart said that associates will have the option of using their own face covering, or use one provided by the company. This requirements applies to workers in all stores, clubs, distribution and fulfillment centers and corporate offices. The edict also affects Sam’s Club employees as well.

Walmart told employees that the company will encourage customers to wear masks while shopping. but is not requiring customers to wear them unless required by state law. Complete article

NY Walmart COVID-19 incident called low risk 04/17/2020

Youth soccer team that survived El Paso Tx. Walmart shooting sends positive message during pandemic 04/17/2020

Mobile COVID-19 testing site opens outside Hudson Avenue Rochester, NY Walmart 04/17/2020

Louisiana Walmart loaded essential items into carts for the elderly 04/17/2020

Hazard/Perry County Ky. Walmart employee tested positive for COVID-19 04/16/2020

‘God Be With Us.’ KY Walmart worker apologizes to those he might have exposed to Covid-19. 04/17/2020

Vestal Walmart employee tests positive for COVID-19 04/18/2020

Costco, Walmart, and Target are barred from selling items like clothing and toys in some parts of the US. Here's what's considered 'nonessential' and where. 04/17/2020


Woman arrested after pretending to scan items in self-checkout at Fla. Wal-Mart 04/18/2020

Walmart’s Coronavirus Challenge Is Just Staying Open 04/1/2020

Wall Street Picks Retail Winners and Losers for Life After Covid-19. The Results Are Surprising. 04/18/2020

Man armed with bat killed in officer involved shooting inside San Leandro Ca.Walmart 04/18/2020

SAN LEANDRO, Calif. - Officers with the San Leandro police department shot and killed a man armed with a bat Saturday afternoon inside of a Walmart store, according to Lieutenant Ted Henderson with the San Leandro Police Department.

The shooting took place just inside of the entrance of the Walmart, located at 1555 Hesperian Blvd.

Police were responding to a report of a man branishing a bat. While responding, police say they received reports that the man was now possibly attempting a robbery.

Once officers arrived, they determined that the man did not commit a robbery, however officers attempted to take the man into custody. Henderson could not offer an answer on why police were attempting to detain the man.

Two officers deployed their Tasers, which they say did not have an effect.

A 20-year veteran officer then shot the man one time, killing him.

Police did not name the man who was killed, but they did identify him as black. Complete article

California shooting video 04/21/2020

San Leandro Police Release Video From Fatal Police Shooting at Walmart 04/22/2020

Police identify man shot and killed by officers inside San Leandro Walmart 04/19/2020

'Don't shoot him no more!' California police face backlash over killing of man in Walmart 04/20/2020 Lee Merritt, an attorney for Taylor’s family, said Taylor was going through a mental health crisis on Saturday afternoon, and that he has previously suffered from paranoid schizophrenia and bipolar depression. “He was shot after he had become completely helpless and no longer represented a threat,” Merritt told the Guardian on Monday.

Family of man killed by police in Walmart angered by lack of notification, calls for investigation 04/24/2020

Car caravan in San Leandro demands justice for man shot, killed by police officer inside Walmart 04/25/2020


Raytown Missouri police officer shoots, kills armed man at Walmart 04/18/2020

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — An off-duty, uniformed Raytown police officer shot and killed an armed man at Walmart on Saturday night.

Raytown Public Information Officer Dyon Harper said that around 8:10 p.m. a man armed with a gun entered the Walmart on East State Route 350.

The officer encountered the man and "shots were fired," according to Harper. The officer was not injured, but will be placed on routine administrative leave.

Missouri Highway Patrol will be conducting an investigation, according to Harper. Complete article

Questions, frustrations remain after officer kills armed man at Raytown Walmart 04/20/2020 Missouri Highway Patrol, which is handling the investigation, said the Raytown officer was working off-duty as a store security guard when he spotted Hampton brandish a pistol toward a cashier.


Report: Man threatened to get his gun and "shoot everyone" at Ga. Walmart 04/18/2020

A 59 year-old Rome man is charged with felony terroristic threats after police say he threatened to go home, get his gun and shoot everyone.

According to Floyd County Jail reports:

On April 14, Eddie Wayne Mathis, 59, told someone this while at the Walmart Supercenter on Cartersville.

He was later arrested for these charges on Friday. He remained in jail with no bond Saturday afternoon. Complete article


Surveillance pics: Couple wanted for electric skateboard theft at Pa. Walmart 04/19/2020

Coronavirus exposure reported at Oneida NY Walmart 04/19/2020

Deputies seek suspected thief with ‘man bun’ at Fla. Wal-Mart in The Villages 04/19/2020

Yukon police searching for Okla. Walmart shoplifter 04/19/2020

Walmart and Sam's Club to require all employees to wear face masks starting Monday 04/19/2020

1 killed in shooting in DeKalb County Ga. Walmart parking lot 04/20/2020

One person was killed after an argument that started inside a DeKalb County Walmart ended in gunfire in the parking lot, police said. The victim died at a hospital after the shooting Sunday night at the Fairington Road store in Stonecrest, DeKalb police told Channel 2 Action News. They have not been identified. It is unknown how many people were involved in the initial argument inside the store. No suspect was arrested Sunday, according to police spokeswoman Michaela Vincent. Complete article

Police need help identifying 2 people of interest connected to deadly Walmart shooting 04/21/2020


Woman found dead inside her car at Flower Mound Tx. Walmart 04/19/2020

Flower Mound police responded to a call of a deceased person around 4:30 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot at Neighborhood Walmart on Flower Mound Road. Upon arrival officers discovered a 68-year-old woman in her car, who died after her shift at Walmart, said Capt. Shane Jennings of the Flower Mound Police Department. The Tarrant County Medical Examiner has identified the woman as Barbara Ann Mills of Grapevine. Complete article


'What's so suspicious about them?' 911 call leads police to question family sitting in parked car at Tenn. Walmart 04/19/2020 “What's so suspicious about them besides being black?” Secherest demanded of the officers in a Facebook Live video that's since been widely shared and commented on.

Pair arrested after botched ‘return’ of stolen merchandise at Fla. Wal-Mart 04/20/2020

Court delays murder trial for man accused of shooting Jean Fournier in a Me. Walmart parking lot in July 2019 04/20/2020

Two wanted for filling NC Walmart cart, trying to leave with hundreds in merchandise 04/21/2020

Blue Springs Missouri police investigate suspicious death in Walmart parking lot as homicide 04/20/2020

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Police in Blue Springs are investigating a suspicious death that was reported Sunday in a Walmart parking lot as a homicide.

Officers were dispatched around 2 p.m. to 600 N.E. Coronado Drive on a report of a dead body, police said.

Police found the body of a man identified as 65-year-old Wayne Tindell of Blue Springs in the parking lot and are investigating his death as a homicide. Complete article

Woman charged in Clay County killing now charged with homicide near Blue Springs Walmart 04/22/2020 According to court records, Blue Springs police responded Sunday to a trailer parked near the Walmart on NE Cornado Drive and found the victim, 65-year-old Wayne S. Tindell. Medical officials determined that he died of a gunshot wound to the head.


NH woman accused of threatening Walmart employee with knife 04/20/2020

MANCHESTER, N.H. (WHDH) - A Manchester, New Hampshire, woman is facing criminal charges after police say she was caught trying to steal from a Walmart on Sunday and threatened an employee with a knife.

Officers responded to the Gold Street store on Sunday around 6 p.m. after someone called to report an armed robbery, according to police. The caller is said to have told officers that a woman was attempting to shoplift and when confronted by a loss prevention officer, threatened the employee with a knife.

The woman, who police later identified as 32-year-old Jennifer Vallier, then left the store and ran off toward Hannaford Supermarket, where officers took her into custody. Complete article


Enraged Girlfriend Attempts to Attack Tx. Walmart Employees with Car 04/20/2020

SAN ANGELO, TX – A woman was arrested Thursday after she tried to run down her boyfriend and his co-workers in her car at the Walmart on S. Bryant.

According to the affidavit, on April 16, officers were dispatched to the Walmart on South Bryant for the report of a disturbance. When the officers arrived they met with a man and two other Walmart employees who explained what happened.

The victim said it started when he was getting off from his shift at the Walmart. The man was attempting to leave and get into his 2018 Dodge Charger but found his girlfriend Alexys Ryan Grafton waiting for him.

She demanded her boyfriend hand over his phone and tell her who he'd been seeing. The boyfriend didn't comply with Grafton so she began punching him in the face leaving scratch marks across his face and neck. The man ended up running back into the store where he told two of his co-workers what was going on.

While her boyfriend was inside of the store, Grafton parked her car beside the Charger. As the man, accompanied by two of his co-workers, walked out of the Walmart Grafton allegedly accelerated towards the group nearly hitting them. Grafton then fled the scene. Complete article


Apple Valley Ca. Walmart employees sprayed with chemicals by a customer upset over the COVID-19 policy 04/20/2020

APPLE VALLEY, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Employees working at the Apple Valley Walmart were sprayed with a chemical mixture by a customer who was upset over the stores COVID-19 policy, officials said.

It happened on April 18, 2020, at about 6:00 pm, at the Walmart in the 20200 block of Highway 18 in Apple Valley.

Recently Walmart implemented a new social distancing policy that requires all customers to use a designated entrance/exit as the company aims to reduce the number of customers who can be in a store at once. Complete article


Police Searching for Vehicle Stolen from Parking Lot of Andalusia Alabama Walmart 04/20/2020

The Andalusia Police Department is currently investigating the theft of an automobile.

On April 20, the Andalusia Police Department responded to a stolen vehicle call for service at the Wal-Mart parking lot located on Martin Luther King Expressway. The stolen vehicle is described as a gray on gray 2008 Kia Sorrento. The tag number is 9647AW3. The vehicle has a United States Marine Corps Eagle Globe and Anchor sticker on the back glass on the passenger side.

The vehicle was reported taken some time around 11:30 pm on April 19. Complete article


Police: Charges pending for two teens pretending to sneeze on customers at Nitro Walmart 04/21/2020

NITRO, W.Va. (WCHS/WVAH) — The Nitro police chief says charges are pending for two teenagers who pretended to sneeze on customers at Walmart, claiming to have COVID-19.

Chief Bobby Eggleton said the incident happened Sunday at the Walmart in Nitro.

Several customers had reported the teenagers were shooting video on their phones acting like they were sneezing and using a spray bottle to spritz people. Complete article


Walmart Is the Center of the Virus Storm 04/20/2020

There is a lot of dispute right now about what products or merchants are essential during the coronavirus pandemic. But there’s no dispute over Walmart (NYSE:WMT) — and that has all eyes on WMT stock.

Walmart is the center of the virus storm. The company is hiring like mad as 10% of employees are on leave. Starting April 20, all employees will be required to wear facemasks at work, even senior executives. Just wearing a mask while shopping is exhausting.

Investors are giving Walmart stock a lot of love for its efforts. The shares are up 11% so far in 2020. This despite Walmart still not being a growth company. Its first-quarter numbers, due out May 19, are expected to show revenue of $127 billion, up 3% from a year ago, and lower earnings. Complete article

Erie Pa. Walmart Employee Tests Positive 04/20/2020

Barriers and masks: Walmart implements new customer/employee policies 04/21/2020

City of Abilene Tx. regrets sending out public health warning to Walmart customers 04/21/2020


West Haven Conn. Walmart employees donate to help first responders 04/20/2020

Michigan City Ind. police warn of Walmart text scam 04/20/2020

Defendant in 2016 death of Walmart shoplifting suspect dies of a heart attack 04/20/2020 Randall Eugene Tomko, a former Fla. Walmart loss prevention officer facing manslaughter charges in the February 2016 death of a suspected shoplifter, has died of a heart attack.

Walmart Inc. (WMT): Skating on Thin Ice? 04/21/2020

Man arrested, accused of robbing bank inside Amarillo Tx. Walmart 04/21/2020

AMARILLO, Texas (KVII) — Amarillo police have announced the arrest of 38-year-old William Lancaster in connection with a bank robbery last week. According to a Tuesday news release, police were called to the Walmart on Amarillo Boulevard on April 14 on a reported robbery.

The report said a man had entered the First Convenience Bank inside and asked for a manager before announcing that he was robbing the bank.

He left the store with money. Complete article


Walmart in Crescent City Ca. evacuated after report of man with gun 04/22/2020

CRESCENT CITY, Calif. — The Walmart in Crescent City was evacuated after someone noticed a handgun on the floor of a bathroom stall and reported it to officials, according to the Del Norte County Sheriff's Office.

"We want to make sure that people have the facts regarding what happened at Walmart a couple hours ago," the DNSO said via Facebook Tuesday night.

On April 21 at about 5 p.m. the sheriff's office got a report of a man with a gun at the Walmart on East Washington Boulevard, officials said. Complete article

Walmart evacuated, employee terminated after bringing firearm in store 04/24/2020


Fayetteville NC woman charged in purse-snatching in Walmart parking lot 04/21/2020

Fayetteville police say they have made an arrest after an 84-year-old woman had her purse snatched off her arm in a Walmart parking lot Monday afternoon and was dragged 20 feet by the assailant.

Officers with the Police Department responded to the Walmart on the 1500 block of Skibo Road just before 4 p.m. in reference to a personal robbery, the department said in a news release.

The 84-year-old woman said she was returning to her vehicle when she was approached by a woman in a blue 2001 Chevrolet Suburban. The woman got out of the driver’s seat and snatched the purse off of the victim’s arm, the release said.

The 84-year-old held onto her purse even when the assailant got back in the vehicle and began to drive off. The woman was pulled down and dragged approximately 20 feet before losing her purse, the release said. Police said the woman sustained minor injuries. Complete article


COVID FEAR: Woman pepper-sprays folks trying to ride elevator with her at a D.C. Wal-Mart 04/21/2020

WASHINGTON (WJLA) — Social distancing is the phrase that authorities keep emphasizing, but did one woman carry it too far at a downtown D.C. Walmart?

According to Dominick Gamble, a shopper at Walmart Monday afternoon, the shoppers with their baskets were crowded around an elevator to the parking garage.

A woman without the required face mask got on first and tried to close the door on the other shoppers. When they objected, she said she wanted social distancing, says Gamble who shot video of the incident with his cell phone.

“The other ladies stood up,“ Gamble says, “Everybody tried to get on, but she was riding like that so she whipped that mace.”

His video shows a woman who tried to enter the elevator, holding her face, screaming. Other shoppers brought the screaming woman water for her face, while the security guard struggled with another woman trying to get at the pepper sprayer. Complete article


Oneida man charged with sexually assaulting employee at NY Walmart 04/21/2020

An Oneida man was arrested last week after allegedly sexually accosting a Walmart employee inside the Oneida retail store.

Alexander W. Carter, 22, of Oneida, was charged after the incident, which occurred on April 12.

According to an arrest warrant filed by Oneida Police Department Investigator Andy Davis, the assault occurred in a bathroom at the back of the store, where the employee was washing her hands before returning to work from break. She told police that Carter — who she did not know — startled her when he entered the wrong bathroom. Allegedly, Carter initially apologized but then asked if the woman had a boyfriend before becoming aggressive.

Davis wrote in his report that Carter locked the bathroom door before approaching the woman and attempting to kiss her. He further wrote that the victim told Carter “no” several times and attempted to leave, but Carter stopped her from doing so and told her repeatedly to go into a stall at the back of the restroom. Allegedly, when the woman would try to leave, he would ask, “Are you sure?” Complete article


Fort Worth Tx. Police Looking for Men Caught Using Stolen Cards at Walmart 04/21/2020

Snacks provide clues to electronics thefts at Walmart Supercenter south of Hagerstown 04/21/2020

Woman accused of trying to steal from Pa. Walmart, cited for violating stay-at-home order 04/22/2020

Walmart stabbing suspect arrested after hitting officer, cruiser with car in La Grange Ky. 04/22/2020

LA GRANGE, Ky. (WAVE) - Charges are pending against a man after his alleged involvement in a stabbing at a La Grange Walmart Wednesday afternoon. The victim, a woman, was transported to UofL Hospital with injuries.

La Grange police officers were called to the Walmart on New Moody Lane around 1:35 p.m. Chief of La Grange PD Greg Collett said officers found a woman with several stab wounds in the parking area of the store.

The suspect is revealed to have fled in a Kia sedan, leading to a brief police chase. He was halted using stop sticks and ultimately hit an officer and a cruiser with his car before he was apprehended in the 1100 block of Commerce Parkway.

The stabbing victim and the suspect were transported separately by Oldham County EMS to UofL Hospital for treatment. Complete article

Woman found stabbed at La Grange Ky. Walmart; suspect in custody after pursuit, crash 04/23/2020


Man accused of robbing bank inside Cedar Park Walmart 04/22/2020

A Houston man has been accused of robbing a bank inside a Walmart in Cedar Park, according to an arrest affidavit released this week. Jonathan Dukes, 29, was charged with robbery, a second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Officials said two other men participated in the robbery with Dukes but information about whether charges had been filed against them was not available Wednesday.

The incident happened Jan. 19 at the Woodforest Bank inside a Walmart at 201 Walton Way in Cedar Park, the affidavit said.

A bank manager notified police at 2:34 p.m. that the bank had been robbed, the document said. It said she told police she was in the back room of the bank with another employee when they saw two men, including one identified later as Dukes, at the bank’s customer counter.

She said that when she approached the counter, Dukes grabbed her by the neck and threw her onto the ground, police said. Complete article


Officers pursue man after suspicious Gilbert Walmart incident 04/23/2020

GILBERT, AZ — The driver of a Smart Car that led officers on a pursuit this morning is in custody.

Officials pursued the driver on Valley freeways from the southeast to far west Valley Wednesday morning.

The pursuit eventually came to a stop on Interstate 10 near Watson Road. Complete article


Kids help catch Walmart shoplifter in Fort Walton Beach Fla. 04/22/2020

FORT WALTON BEACH — A woman who allegedly shoplifted clothing from Walmart was eventually tracked down with the help of children in a nearby neighborhood.

Mary Thompson, who has no known address, ran from loss prevention officers at the store after they tried to stop her, according to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office.

She left the store, jumped fences and hid in yards to avoid OCSO deputies, who responded to a call about the theft.

She was eventually found hiding in the backyard of a home on Greystone Lane, a street located behind Winn-Dixie, after four children told deputies where to find her, OCSO said. Complete article


Police: Florida woman chewed up fruit, spit onto food display at Walmart 04/23/2020

HOLLY HILL, Fla. - Holly Hill police arrested a woman who they said chewed up some fruit and then spit it out onto a food display at Walmart.

Lisette Santis, 40, is facing criminal charges after showing 'reckless disregard' for others during the coronavirus pandemic, police said.

According to an arrest report, Santis was at the Walmart store on North Nova Road Wednesday. The stores Asset Protection Manager stated that she witnessed Santis spit into two produce bins while shopping.

Police say Santis opened a sealed package of guava and chewed it up, and spit it into her hand. When she did that, some of the pieces from her mouth fell on the limes, police say. Santis then dropped one of the pieces into the bin of limes and walked over to the oranges.

Again, police say Santis 'projectile spat' onto the oranges and dropped a chewed piece of fruit onto them. Complete article


Walmart won’t say if workers have coronavirus as some NJ stores temporarily close 04/23/2020

As grocery shopping has become equal parts essential and fraught during the coronavirus crisis, safety responses have varied from chain to chain. One retail juggernaut has gone as far as temporarily shutting down certain stores in New Jersey.

Walmart has closed four of its 71 New Jersey locations for one day each over the last two weeks, in order for for third-party cleaning and to restock merchandise, according to spokesperson Phillip Keene. The Garfield store closed on April 9, the Freehold location was closed on April 17 and both the Secaucus and Kearny locations were shut down on April 20. In all four cases, the stores reopened the next day without issue.

Positive COVID-19 tests among staff members, inadequate staffing numbers and stocking issues are all among the considerations that can trigger a one-day shutdown at a Walmart location, Keene said. Walmart is initiating the closings, with no outside input from health departments.

“We’re assessing a number of factors in stores in hot zones like New Jersey and the New York metro area for issues that we want to correct in terms of customer service,” Keene said. “It could be that we’re assessing stock levels, or the scheduling for associates and how we’re being able to serve customers to our standards in those stores. And then, of course, we’re not immune to COVID." Complete article


Belabored Stories: After Deaths, Fear Rises at Walmart 04/22/2020

As the nation’s frontline brick-and-mortar retailer, Walmart has been supplying groceries and household essentials to communities devastated both by the pandemic and economic decline. Workers at Walmart, however, fear that their jobs are needlessly putting their health at risk. The recent deaths of several Walmart employees underscore how vulnerable they really are.

“At the store, I don’t feel like the individual has a say,” said James, a pharmacy technician at an Illinois Walmart Supercenter who opted not to disclose his name out of a fear of retaliation. “It has more to do with what upper management says. It [doesn’t act out of] concern [for] anybody who’s there; it’s just concern for how much money can we make, and how little protection we have to give people for them to be satisfied.”

Two Walmart workers at the same store in Evergreen Park, Illinois died between late March and early April. The family of one of the workers, fifty-one-year-old Wando Evans, is now suing the mega-retailer, claiming that the management failed to adhere to federal safety guidelines, including recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, and ignored Evans’s complaints about his symptoms. Evans died just two days after he was sent home. Days later, another worker at a Forest Park, Illinois store died of COVID-19. Complete article

Walmart Suspending Returns on Certain Items 04/23/2020


The Best and Worst Bargains at Walmart 2020

Although Walmart claims to save families about $2,500 a year, it is not always the best place to buy cheap products. Like many other big box stores, Walmart sells everything from drones to diapers. Despite the fact that you can save a lot of money at Walmart, this is not the case for all the items in it. That’s why we’ve compiled an exhaustive list of items that you should never buy in this store in order to save you money and ensure you get the best product possible.

1 Worst: Meat and fish

Walmart customers have a lot to say about the store’s grocery store and, for the most part, their comments are not very positive. When Consumer Reports asked more than 50,000 people about their food buying habits and preferences, they found that Walmart was “by far the most complacent grocery supplier”.

They also found that “about 74% of Walmart consumers had at least one complaint about the national discounter”. Among the most common complaints? The quality of meat and fish. We, therefore, suggest that you avoid buying these products at Walmart.

3 Worst: Generic Supplements

If you buy your supplements from Walmart, make sure you do not buy the generic versions. Not long ago, the New York Attorney General’s Office issued a statement revealing that several major retailers – including Walmart – were selling branded herbal supplements.

These supplements “could not be verified as containing the labeled substance or that contained ingredients not mentioned on the labels”.

7 Worst: Fresh products

Since Walmart customers have nothing pleasant to say about the store’s fish and meat departments, it’s no wonder the produce department is not very popular either.

Who would like to buy not so fresh fish or meat and risking to be sick?

9 Worst: Televisions

Although Walmart sells HD TVs at a discount, it can only offer such offers because the quality of its product matches the price.

Walmart HDTVs are available at economical prices because they are lower quality versions than those sold elsewhere.

11 Worst: Prepaid telephone package

When Tom’s Guide experts tested nine telephone operators, they spent a lot of time debating which operator would lead.

The company that was at the bottom of their list was Straight Talk Wireless, Walmart’s prepaid phone package, “Straight Talk had the slowest LTE speed of all the operators we tested, and it also came last when we tested customer support,” they wrote in their report.

14 Worst: Chicken

While chicken rotisseries are generally very popular with shoppers as they provide a quick, good and economical meal, Walmart rotisseries should be avoided for a variety of reasons.

Not only is the amount of chicken you buy, even for a pittance, nearly half the amount of rotisserie chicken you’d buy in other stores, it’s also far too high in sodium when compared to others.

16 Worst: Toys

Although Walmart’s toy selection is impressive, its prices are less so.

You can get better prices by shopping on Amazon from the comfort of your living room. Complete article


Walmart Poaches Its New Marketing Chief from Rival Target 04/22/2020

Walmart Inc. has found its new marketing chief at rival Target Corp.

William White, a senior vice president of marketing at Target, will take the top marketing job at Walmart effective May 11, according to an internal memo obtained by Bloomberg News. White, a former Coca-Cola Co. executive, joined Target in 2013 and oversaw category and brand marketing, including the retailer’s ubiquitous “Target Run” campaign. At Walmart, White will report to Chief Customer Officer Janey Whiteside and fill a role that’s been vacant for nearly a year since the departure of Barbara Messing.

Walmart’s marketing efforts have expanded in recent years as the retailer has sought to publicize fast-growing areas of its business like curbside grocery pickup, which it promoted in a Super Bowl ad earlier this year featuring famous movie characters. Walmart’s essential role as the nation’s leading grocer during the coronavirus pandemic -- along with efforts to built Covid-19 testing sites in its parking lots -- has put the corporate brand front and center in the U.S. retail landscape. Complete article


'We are the new Disneyland': Essential workers in Walmart, Costco, and Target are frustrated by bored customers browsing stores for nonessential purchases amid the pandemic 04/22/2020

Report: 100,000 stores closing by 2025 will benefit Walmart, Costco, and Target 04/21/2020 The big will get bigger': UBS expects 100,000 stores to close across the US in the next 5 years — and Walmart, Costco, and Target could be among the last left standing

Deputies: Geneva duo charged with burglary after incident at Hopewell NY Walmart 04/23/2020

3 suspected shop lifters arrested at Walmart in Boaz Alabama 04/22/2020

Augusta Me. Police Need Help ID'ing Walmart Theft Suspects 04/22/2020

Woman accused of trying to steal from Pa. Walmart, cited for violating stay-at-home order 04/22/2020

Walmart in Aurora Colorado shut down after 3 coronavirus deaths and multiple cases 04/23/2020

A Walmart in Aurora has been shut down by health officials because of three coronavirus deaths associated with the business as well as multiple cases.

The Walmart, at 14000 East Exposition, is closed by order of the Tri-County Health Department in connection to the deaths of an employee, a store security guard, and an employee’s husband, according to a news release.

“There are six additional confirmed cases among employees,” the release said. There are three additional cases connected to the business awaiting lab confirmation. Complete article

Walmart Employees Say Management Wasn’t Honest About Coronavirus Outbreak 04/24/2020

Widow of security guard who worked at Walmart and died of COVID-19 says she warned store of dangers 04/24/2020

Closure of Walmart Supercenter in Aurora followed days of complaints about conditions — and 3 coronavirus deaths 04/24/2020

Aurora Walmart allowed to reopen after order to close in wake of COVID-19 outbreak, 3 deaths 04/2/2020

Coronavirus Kills 72-Year-Old Aurora Woman Who Worked As Walmart Cashier 05/01/2020 While it is unclear how the couple contracted the virus, Spellman said her sister had expressed concerns about customers at Walmart coughing on her at the cash register.


Springfield Missouri man accused of stabbing Walmart security guard during shoplifting attempt 04/2/2020

Police say a Springfield man tried to leave a Walmart store with a cart full of stolen merchandise and then stabbed the security guard who stopped him.

Eric Reed, 29, was charged earlier this month with robbery and armed criminal action.

According to a probable cause statement, Reed tried to leave the Walmart Neighborhood Market on Grand Street on April 13 without paying for a cart full of merchandise. Complete article


Woman Targeted By Pickpocketer At Woodland Ca. Walmart Tracks Suspect Down Herself 04/23/2020

WOODLAND (CBS13) — A man was arrested after police say he pickpocketed a woman at the Walmart in Woodland on Wednesday.

The incident happened just before 4 p.m. at the store on E. Main Street.

Woodland police say a woman was shopping inside when a man bumped into her. She soon realized that her wallet, phone and other items were missing.

With the help of her phone’s tracking app, she was able to trace the suspect to near Ace Hardware just down the road. She went in and immediately recognized the suspect and went to confront him, prompting the man to run into the store.

Officers soon arrived and arrested the man. His name has not been released at this point. Complete article


Man attempts to spit on Walmart employees, customers before punching Toledo Ohio Police officer 04/24/2020

TOLEDO (WTVG) - A Toledo man is facing charges after he allegedly punched a police officer several times in the stomach Wednesday as she was attempting to detain him.

Michael Fafard, 45, was at Walmart on Glendale when he began to argue with employees and attempted to spit on Walmart managers and customers.

A Toledo Police officer was dispatched to the location. When Officer Tucker arrived, she attempted to detain Fafard, who became combative and punched her, according to court documents. Complete article


“I did not sign up for the military. I signed up for Walmart.” 04/23/2020

A few weeks ago, Evelyn Hall asked her manager at Walmart why the store wasn’t giving workers gloves and masks.

The manager’s response, according to Hall: “Wash your hands every 15 minutes, so you don’t need a glove or a mask.”

“She just walked away from me and started laughing, like it was funny,” Hall said.

The lack of protective equipment wasn’t the only reason Hall, a Walmart employee for 28 years, felt unsafe at her Maryland store. The store also wasn’t counting customers to maintain social distancing and prevent crowding, she said. And she’d heard from other employees that workers at her store had contracted Covid-19 — but management had never informed other employees or closed the store.

Hall is 68 years old with diabetes and high blood pressure, conditions that put her at high risk of severe illness from the coronavirus. With so few protections in place, she felt Walmart was putting her life on the line. Complete article

Tx. Walmart employee tests positive for COVID-19 04/23/2020

Senators Call on Walmart to Improve Safety for Workers During Coronavirus 04/24/2020



Conway SC police seeking to identify person of interest in Walmart theft 04/23/2020

3 suspected shop lifters arrested at Walmart in Boaz Alabama | Suspects identified, Walmart drops charges 04/23/2020

Appointment-only COVID-19 drive-thru testing site to open at Oklahoma City Walmart 04/24/2020

Beshear announces coronavirus testing site at Walmart store in Louisville 04/24/2020

Police: Ga. Walmart robbery suspect identified, in custody 04/2/2020

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) – Columbus Police say they have a suspect in custody after identifying a man who allegedly robbed an elderly victim at the Victory Drive Walmart on April 21.

That suspect has been identified as Jason Ware, 38 of Columbus, was charged with Battery and Robbery, according to police.

The Columbus Police Department’s Robbery/Assault Division released surveillance footage of the suspect on April 22 and asked for help from the public identifying him. CPD says the case is now cleared following Ware’s arrest. Complete article


Walmart responds to social media claims of an employee testing positive for COVID-19 in South Sioux City, NE 04/24/2020

South Sioux City, NE (KTIV) - Several people have expressed concerns about a post going around on social media, that an employee at the South Sioux City, Nebraska Walmart has been diagnosed with COVID-19.

KTIV reached out to Walmart and received the following response:
"Thanks for reaching out. Please know we take your concerns very seriously. Protecting the privacy of our associates is also important. I will refer you to the local health department for any confirmations of COVID-19 cases, but rest assured we are taking all measures necessary to ensure the well-being of those inside our stores.

In the case we do have a confirmed case at any of our stores, we are working with those associates and offering guidance and time needed to receive medical care. Associates have been encouraged to prioritize their health and stay home if feeling sick. We also implemented a COVID-19 emergency leave policy for all associates who feel unable or uncomfortable coming to work.

While we are not able to confirm any information related to this store at this time, we have been working to ensure our stores are cleaned and sanitized regularly. We are focused on serving our customers during this unprecedented time and we’ve implemented several measures intended to help bring peace of mind."
Complete article

Horseheads Walmart receives second warning from Chemung County NY for social distancing violations 04/22/2020


Top 6 Walmart execs earned a combined $112.4 million in 2019 04/24/2020

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Talk Business & Politics) — On a Thursday proxy filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Walmart reported compensation of its top six executive officers totaled more than $112.39 million. The top earner was Global Chief Technology Officer Suresh Kumar who was hired from Google in 2019.

Walmart’s top executive officers benefited from a profitable year. Walmart grew revenue to $523.96 billion, up 1.85% in fiscal 2020, but operating income was lower at $20.569 billion. These mixed financial results did factor into the exec bonus pay which was slightly lower than received in the prior year.

Kumar’s total earnings were $45.89 million, which included a cash signing bonus of $515,100 and $43.603 million in stock awards as part of his deferred compensation. His base salary was $576,923 and other earnings included $1.81 million in cash incentives and $21,603 in other compensation. Without Kumar’s sign-on bonus and additional stock awards, he would likely not have been in the top six earners.

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon had total compensation of $22.105 million, plus $135,000 of salary deferred. His base salary of $1.176 million has been constant for the past three years. His stock awards this past year were $15.709 million, also in line with the past three years. Bonus pay for the fiscal 2020 year totaled $3.516 million, which was less than the prior two years. Pay incentive is based on total company performance of sales revenue growth and operating income. While revenue was up in 2020, operating income was lower than the prior year. McMillion’s total earnings in 2020 were down about 5% from the prior year because of the reduced incentive pay. Complete article


Coronavirus Florida: Walmart scraps drive-thru testing site for Royal Palm Beach 04/23/2020 Royal Palm Beach’s mayor says Walmart wanted the village to take on the liability for setting up a for-profit testing site at its store on State Road 7 and Belvedere Road.

Thief wanted in Marion County Fla. for stealing from Walmart 04/24/2020

Walmart to begin drive-thru COVID-19 testing in Louisville Ky. 04/24/2020

Appointment-only COVID-19 drive-thru testing site to open at Oklahoma City Walmart 04/24/2020

Man arrested in shooting inside Walmart in Kokomo Ind.; victim in hospital 04/25/2020

KOKOMO, Ind. (WISH) — One man was arrested and a second is in the hospital after a Saturday shooting inside a Walmart in Kokomo.

The shooting happened around 2:45 p.m. Saturday at the Walmart at 1920 E. Markland Ave. when an argument near the front of the store among several men escalated to a physical confrontation. During the fight, a 29-year-old man was shot several times. The department said the incident was not an active shooter situation.

That male victim was taken from the scene to an area hospital and then transferred to an Indianapolis hospital for additional treatment, police said. He was in surgery and no condition was available around 8:30 p.m. Saturday, police said. The identity of the victim on Saturday was not released, nor did police say whether the victim was a customer or an employee.

Keith N. Terrell, 30, of Chicago, Illinois, was arrested and faces a preliminary charge of aggravated battery. On Saturday night, he remained in the Howard County Jail. Complete article

Court docs: Walmart shooter attempts to hide gun in random truck 04/27/2020 Truck owner later located firearm once he arrived home


Pa. Walmart Shopper Who Failed to Wear Mask Charged With Disorderly Conduct: Police 04/25/2020

Pennsylvania State Police at Fogelsville said Friday that a man who allegedly failed to wear a face mask inside an area Walmart store was later charged with disorderly conduct.

In a news release published online, police said Mohamad Awadallah, 18, of West Washington Street, Allentown, was at the Walmart on Mill Creek Road in Lower Macungie Township Monday when he allegedly became disorderly inside the store.

Police said Awadallah “failed to wear a protective mask, and began to act unruly, cursing and yelling at employees.”

After Awadallah was asked to leave the premises, 911 was called, and Awadallah allegedly fled from the store upon troopers’ arrival, the news release indicated.

Police said the incident happened shortly before 7 p.m. April 20, which was the first full day that a mask law was in effect in Pennsylvania; a consequence of health and safety requirements brought about by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Complete article


El Paso Tx. Walmart defies mask mandate, corporate responds 04/25/2020

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Local Walmart stores are defying the city’s mask mandate as El Paso continues to see a surge in COVID-19 cases.

KTSM received photos and reports from shoppers at Walmart on Yarbrough and Gateway West, who said employees told them the store was not enforcing the mandatory mask order because Walmart is a privately-owned company.

The City’s mandate stipulates that people must wear protective face masks when out in public — such as a grocery store — to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Adding to the confusion over why local Walmart stores would not comply with the city’s order, the CDC recommends that masks be worn in all public settings — again, like a grocery store.

Walmart’s corporate office is encouraging El Pasoans to comply with the city and the CDC, despite what employees might say. Complete article

Walmart test handed to driver 04/25/2020


Fox News host attempts to put Walmart employee on blast 04/25/2020

Fox News host Laura Ingraham attempted to belittle an essential worker of a Walmart in Georgia.

Ingraham tweeted out a photo of the employee clipping their fingernails to her over 3 million followers on Thursday night. .....

A co-manager, who identified themself as “Ashia,” told the Daily Dot that Ingraham’s photo violates store policy.

“No one should be taking pictures in a Walmart, that’s policy,” the co-manager said before reiterating that no one should take a photo in the store without first getting the store’s approval. Complete article


Worker at Ky. Walmart COVID-19 testing site holds signs instructing drivers 04/24/2020

PA. POLICE REPORT ATTEMPTED WALMART THEFTS 04/26/2020

SNAP customers in Kentucky can now buy groceries online at Walmart 04/25/2020

Police investigate altercation, shot fired in Concord NC Walmart parking lot 04/26/2020

CONCORD, N.C. (WBTV) - Concord police are investigating after a firearm was discharged in a Concord Walmart.

Police said an altercation happened around 4:22 p.m. Sunday in the parking lot of the Walmart on Thunder Road.

Several males and females were involved in the altercation, but no one was shot and there were no injuries.

Three people were arrested and charged with assault. Complete article

Shots fired at Walmart near Concord Mills NC Sunday 04/27/2020


El Paso Tx. Walmart Shooting Victim Dies From Injuries, Death Toll Now 23 04/26/2020

EL PASO, Texas (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — A hospital official says that a man shot in the Aug. 3 attack targeting Latinos in an El Paso Walmart has died after months in the hospital.

Guillermo ‘Memo’ Garcia was fundraising for his daughter’s soccer team in front of the Walmart when he was shot by Allen-native Patrick Crusius nine months ago.

His death raises the toll from the attack to 23. Garcia is survived by his family including his wife Jessica, who escaped the attack after being shot in the leg. Complete article


Police search for masked man who stole jewelry, shoved employee in Auburn NY Walmart robbery 04/26/2020

Auburn, N.Y. — Auburn police say they are searching for a masked man who shoved a Walmart employee during a robbery at the store Sunday night.

Officers were called to the Walmart Supercenter, at 297 Grant Ave. in the city of Auburn, at 7:56 p.m. for a reported robbery, according to Cayuga County 911.

During their investigation, police learned that a man wearing a mask shoved a Walmart employee and took jewelry during the robbery, then ran out of the store, Auburn police Sgt. James Smith said. The man did not show any weapons and no injuries were reported, Smith said. No other information was immediately available. Complete article


Georgia State partners with Walmart to provide mobile testing unit 04/26/2020

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Gov. Brian Kemp announced Sunday that Walmart is partnering with the state to offer mobile coronavirus testing to rural parts of Georgia.

A new mobile testing unit will begin traveling between Augusta, Milledgeville and Tifton starting on Monday.

“This mobile unit will be a game-changing step in our efforts to ensure access to COVID-19 across Georgia,” said Kemp. “Increased testing is critical as we continue the measured process of safely reopening parts of our state.” Complete article


Walmart in Springfield Mass. to close for cleaning 04/262020

Police evacuate Herkimer NY Walmart after "possible incident" which wasn't specified, although it might be a bomb threat 04/26/2020

Walmart opens drive-thru testing site in Little Rock Arkansas 04/27/2020

Woman with Massachusetts theft convictions arrested at Buffalo Ridge Fla. Wal-Mart 04/27/2020

Police searching for man involved in shooting at Mississippi Walmart parking lot 04/28/2020

Police are searching for a Perry County man who is believed to have been involved in a shooting in a Walmart parking lot that resulted in another man being sent to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Ryan Moore, public information officer with the Hattiesburg Police Department, said no charges are being pursued against Mack Hobson because the shooting was deemed to be accidental. However, police are searching for him for possession of a weapon after a felony conviction.

Police responded to Walmart on U.S. 98 in Hattiesburg at about 9:30 a.m. April 28 after receiving reports of gunfire. When officers arrived on the scene, they were informed that a victim was shot. After investigating the incident, police discovered the two men knew each other and the shooting was accidental.

The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Complete article


Walmart employee brutally attacked at self-checkout registers in Victorville Ca. 04/28/2020

VICTORVILLE, Calif. (VVNG.com) — A Walmart employee working on the front-lines amid the COVID-19 pandemic is now at home recovering from her injuries after she was brutally attacked by a group of customers allegedly upset over the stores self-checkout policy.

The violent attack happened inside Walmart located in the 12200 block of Palmdale Road in Victorville on April 23, 2020.

At about 3:30 pm, store associates were working and handling business just as they’ve been amid all of the recent changes implemented due to coronavirus.

Sheriff’s Spokeswoman Mara Rodriguez said a female employee and multiple female customers were in some type of argument and the customers began physically attacking the employee then fled the scene.

According to a witness who did not want to be identified, a female adult was with a group of people in the self-checkout area and was upset over the store’s policy of 10 items or less.

The witness told VVNG, the female customer shouted profanities at an older female employee and pushed her. A 2nd employee (the victim) intervened and asked the woman and group she was with to please stop or they would need to use a regular register. As the employee attempted to notify security she was violently beaten by 4-5 people and left with her head gashed open and bleeding. Complete article


Police: Man leads chase after taking items from NC Walmart 04/28/2020

A man led police on a chase after allegedly taking several items from Walmart without paying for them.

According to Shelby Police reports, Elijah Matthew Johnson, 28, of Greenville, South Carolina, ran from officers after taking a vacuum cleaner and soundbar from the box store off of East Dixon Boulevard on Friday.

Police responded to the store’s call of a robbery in progress around 11:30 a.m. Johnson allegedly had pushed a cart with the items out of the store and left in a silver Dodge car.

Responding officers saw Johnson’s vehicle on U.S. 74 and followed him, according to reports.

Johnson reportedly ignored lights and sirens and led police on a short chase up Earl Road and through the parking lot of Aldi before officers blocked his exit. Complete article


Two arrested after woman dragged by vehicle through Alabama Walmart parking lot 04/27/2020

A woman was injured Friday after she was dragged through the south side Walmart parking lot by a vehicle.

Police arrested Lexus La’nce Bramlett, 22, of Dothan, and Percy Lee Jr., 50, of Dothan, and charged both with first-degree assault.

According to police, the victim was inside the vehicle, and attempted to exit the vehicle when one of the passengers held the victim by her arm refusing to let her get out, and the driver of the vehicle accelerated. Complete article


Religious Fanatic Calls Out Walmart For Selling nWo T-Shirt 04/27/2020

The nWo were set to be inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame this year. Apparently, not everyone has heard of the famous pro wrestling stable. One woman saw that Walmart was selling nWo merchandise and she lost her mind over it.

One woman saw that the nWo infiltrated her local Walmart and she immediately took to Facebook.
Now found in your local Walmart stores! Global Elites pushing for the NWO (NEW WORLD ORDER) Which includes one world leader, one world religion, one world currency, and one world government. Time to show Walmart what we think! #SupportSmallBussiness

We are censoring out the name of this woman. She is known for posting a lot of conspiracy theories and radical religious messages. Obviously, she thought the nWo was invading through Walmart. Complete article


Onondaga County NY warns of potential coronavirus exposure at Target, Walmart 04/27/2020

Shoppers at a Target store in Clay and a Walmart in East Syracuse may have been exposed to the novel coronavirus last week.

Employees from each retailer tested positive for the virus, according to the Onondaga County Health Department. There is a chance they could have exposed shoppers, though both employees were wearing face masks during their shifts.

Anyone who was at the stores during the following hours is recommended to self-monitor for symptoms of the virus, which include fever, cough or difficulty breathing. Complete article

Walmart unable to confirm rumors of employees testing positive for COVID-19 in Twin Falls Idaho 04/27/2020

Springfield Mass. Walmart to reopen Tuesday after deep cleaning 04/27/2020

South Surrey BC Canada Walmart employee tests positive for COVID-19 virus 04/27/2020


Walmart CEO: Workers coming in "because they want to serve" 04/28/2020

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon told "Axios on HBO " that he doesn't like to think of a temporary $2 entry wage increase for workers at e-commerce warehouses "as hazard pay, because it diminishes why our people are coming to work. ... They're coming to work because they want to serve."

The big picture: The company has had to ramp up its fulfillment capacity to meet the surging demand for groceries and home goods amid the pandemic. Complete article


Virus testing site opens at Okla. Walmart 04/27/2020

Walmart Launches ‘Neighbors Helping Neighbors’ Program 04/27/2020

COVID-19 testing to begin at Saraland Alabama Walmart this week 04/28/2020

Kentucky man accused of stealing $100 in Pokemon cards from Walmart 04/27/2020

Man arrested after breaking into several SC Walmart stores, police say 04/28/2020

Investigators say he stole variety of merchandise, including tools, lawn care equipment, TVs and firearms.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Columbia police say they have arrested a man for breaking into and stealing from several Columbia Walmart stores.

Nechaun West, 41, is charged with burglary, larceny, grand larceny, possession of a firearm by person convicted of a violent felony, unlawful acts during a State of Emergency and a curfew violation. Complete article


Man Arrested for Threatening Women at Minn. Walmart 04/28/2020

ST. CLOUD -- A Little Falls man was arrested Saturday night after yelling profanities and threatening a St. Cloud Walmart security guard and another woman.

According to the criminal complaint, St. Cloud Police were called to the Walmart store around 11:00 p.m. Saturday. A security guard told officers a man was yelling at her and threatened to set another woman on fire.

Police located the man nearby and identified him as 37-year-old Garrett Gustafson.

Officers interviewed the second woman who said Gustafson approached her and began accusing her of stealing money from him.

Records show Gustafson told the woman he was going to pour gasoline on her and light her on fire. According to the charges, Gustafson said she would "melt like plastic" and her eyes, nose and mouth would burn. Complete article


Costco, Walmart, Kroger 'grossly inflated' the price of eggs during coronavirus pandemic, lawsuit claims 04/29/2020

Dozens of retailers and farms have been named in a class-action lawsuit that alleges they engaged in price-gouging by marking up the price of eggs sold in California.

Costco, Trader Joe’s, Walmart and Kroger were just a few of the retailers accused of “the despicable and illegal practice of price-gouging of essential groceries” amid the ongoing coronavirus health crisis, according to court filings obtained by Bloomberg Law.

The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleges that plaintiffs noticed “grossly inflated” prices at retailers after Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom issued a declaration of emergency on March 4. Complete article


Police seek man, woman suspected of stealing from Canton Walmart 04/28/2020

Drive-thru coronavirus testing begins at Louisville Ky. Walmart 04/29/2020

Walmart launches mobile COVID-19 testing sites in Kansas 04/29/2020

Men stole television from SC Walmart, police say 04/29/2020

Body found in vehicle at Hixson Tenn. Walmart 04/29/2020

Chattanooga police have confirmed a body has been found in a vehicle at the Walmart in Hixson.

No foul play is suspected at this time. Complete article


Man arrested in attempted kidnapping at Ca. Walmart 04/29/2020

A 29-year-old Modesto man was arrested by Ceres Police after he unsuccessfully attempted to kidnap a child at the Ceres Walmart on Sunday afternoon.

At 1:39 p.m., Officer Eric Souza was in the Walmart parking lot when he was flagged down by the loss prevention manager who reported that a man, later identified as Raman Kumar, 29, of Modesto, had just attempted kidnap a child inside the store. He had fled the store without the child.

The child’s mother told police that she was waiting in line to get in the store with her three children, aged 3, 4 and 8. As they had entered the store, the mother heard her eight-year-old yelling, “Why you taking my brother? Let my brother go!” The mother spun around and saw Kumar holding her three-year-old son off of the ground. The eight-year-old began wrestling his brother away from the suspect who was spooked off. Complete article


Driver being sought in hit-and-run at Indian Land SC Walmart 04/30/2020

LANCASTER COUNTY, S.C. (WBTV) - Deputies in Lancaster County are asking for the public’s help identifying a man wanted for questioning in connection with a hit-and-run in a Walmart parking lot.

Officials say the incident happened at the Walmart on Hwy 521 in Indian Land. The sheriff’s office did not provide details about the alleged crime, but did share a photo of the man they want to question on Facebook Thursday morning.

Anyone with information about the man’s identity should call the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office at 803-283-3388, or Midlands Crimestoppers at 888-CRIME-SC. Complete article


Worcester Mass. Walmart store ordered closed after 23 employees test positive for coronavirus 04/29/2020

WORCESTER - The Walmart superstore at 25 Tobias Boland Way has been ordered closed after 23 people have tested positive for COVID-19, city officials said Wednesday.

City Manager Edward M. Augustus said at the city’s daily briefing in City Hall that the store had a “cluster” of COVID-19 cases, with the earliest positive test results on April 8 and the bulk of them in the past seven days, all “people associated with that address, employees.”

He said the city medical director, Dr. Michael P. Hirsh, ordered the store closed. Augustus said all employees must be tested or retested for the coronavirus before they can return to work at the store. Hirsh said the city is working out how the testing will be done.

The Worcester store is one of two in the state that the department store chain is closing for cleaning. The other is in Abington. Both stores will be reopened at 7 a.m. Friday. Complete article

At least 41 workers at Worcester Walmart test positive for coronavirus 04/30/2020


As Covid-19 Deaths Mount in Retail, Walmart Workers Take Matters Into Own Hands With Contact-Tracing Plan 04/29/2020

A national labor non-profit on Wednesday launched a virtual tracker for coronavirus cases in Walmart stores around the country, citing the retail giant's inaction in the face of the pandemic in the midst of rising infections and deaths of employees.

"The rise of deaths and infections of Walmart associates show clearly that the company is not only failing to keep its associates and customers safe, but also failing to communicate clearly about store conditions," Michigan Walmart worker Ruby Ann Woolwine said in a statement. "We can't wait for more half-measures—we're taking matters into our own hands to get the information we deserve to know."
United for Respect @forrespect

🚨NATIONAL CALL OUT & NEW CORONAVIRUS TRACKER🚨

We just launched a NEW coronavirus map tracker for Walmart workers to report potential cases & share safety concerns in stores all across the country.

Check out the map at http://areyousafe.work

The Covid-19 tracker "will allow associates nationwide to report infections and store safety conditions" in a publicly available database, United for Respect said in a press release. Complete article

'I don't live fearful': From mass shooting to coronavirus pandemic, how a Walmart cashier copes 04/30/2020


Wash. Rep: ‘People are going to Walmart, but they’re not able to go to Main St’ 04/29/2020

More and more leaders are saying it’s time to reopen and get the economy up and running in a reasonable and safe way. Here in Washington state, it would appear the governor is moving pretty slowly, with most businesses seeing no end in sight. Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Republican from Spokane, told the Jason Rantz Show she believes it’s time to put a concrete plan in place.

“We are grateful that we have not seen the number of cases as other regions and counties in Washington state, and we’re grateful for all the work that has been done by our emergency management team in eastern Washington, our health care providers that have been ramping up,” she said. “But we are ready to get back to our lives and to see more industries and more of our economy opened up.”

“I was really pleased that last week the governor took action to open up some parts of our economy around residential construction, fishing, golfing. We had been ready for a couple of weeks actually.” Complete article


Amazon, Walmart, Target and FedEx employees plan joint walkout to protest treatment of essential workers and demand hazard pay 04/28/2020

Employees at a number of large companies are planning a joint walkout to protest companies that they say have disregarded the health and safety of essential workers while earning record profits.

Workers at Amazon, Instacart, Whole Foods, Walmart, Target and FedEx plan to take part in the May 1 protest by calling out sick or walking off the job site, according to The Intercept.

The workers are seeking better health and safety standards as well as hazard pay for working during the coronavirus pandemic.

'We are acting in conjunction with workers at Amazon, Target, Instacart and other companies for International Worker's Day to show solidarity with other essential workers in our struggle for better protections and benefits in the pandemic,' Daniel Steinbrook, a Whole Foods employee and strike organizer, told the outlet. Complete article


First Walmart COVID-19 test site in Nevada to open in North Las Vegas 04/292020

Police seek man, woman suspected of stealing from Canton Mich. Walmart 04/28/2020

San Antonio Tx. man arrested in connection to San Angelo Walmart theft with employee vests 04/29/2020

Walmart rewards Louisiana associates with $3.52 million in cash bonuses 04/30/2020 In all, Walmart gave associates $180 million in bonuses nationwide today. When combined with the $365 million announced earlier this month, the company has committed close to $550 million in bonus payouts to its men and women serving on the front lines of these unprecedented times.

Police: 2 shot at Guthrie Okla. Walmart; Suspect arrested 04/30/2020

GUTHRIE, Okla. (KFOR-TV) — A suspect has been arrested after shooting two people at a Guthrie Walmart Thursday afternoon, according to KFOR-TV in Oklahoma City.

Three people were involved in an altercation that led to the shooting, police said.

This is not an active shooter situation. Complete article

UPDATE: Police identify suspect accused of shooting 2 people at Guthrie Walmart 04/30/2020


Target, Walmart workers and others plan 'sickout' protests over coronavirus safety 05/01/2020

A Target worker in Virginia wearing his own mask, gloves and safety glasses said he felt helpless recently when customers swarmed him as he organized a clearance area. Another Target worker, a cashier in North Carolina, said he welcomed the installation of plexiglass partitions at the registers over a week ago, but said they should have come sooner. A Whole Foods worker in Portland said she and some of her colleagues are feeling "scared, angry and devastated" after a fellow employee died from the coronavirus last week.

To convey their concerns, they plan to call out of work Friday as part of a nationwide employee "sickout" involving Target and Whole Foods, as well as Amazon, Instacart, FedEx and Walmart.

The grassroots effort — the latest example of a wave of worker activism during the coronavirus crisis — is asking customers to boycott those companies' local stores and services Friday to coincide with International Workers' Day, also known as May Day, which in a normal year is marked by massive labor rights demonstrations in major cities. Complete article




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