Three individuals from Dickson County are now in police custody after an alleged attempt to steal a vast amount of merchandise from a Mt. Juliet Walmart turned into a brief car chase and the assault of a store employee. The incident occurred shortly before 5:45 p.m. on Sunday, as reported by the Mt. Juliet Police Department (MJPD).
According to details shared by WKRN, the emergency unfolded when officers were called to the scene after the trio attempted to slip away with "a bunch of Legos." The situation escalated as one suspect reportedly assaulted a Walmart employee before all three fled in a vehicle. The MJPD quickly managed to track down the car and strategically deploy spike strips to successfully disable the vehicle near mile marker 225 on Interstate 40 West.
The subsequent actions led to a brief foot chase where one male suspect, who later was found to have outstanding warrants in Dickson County and Mississippi, attempted to flee on foot. "MJPD is committed to ensuring that crime is not successful in our community, and we are grateful for our officers who commit themselves to protecting this city," officials stated in a post on the department's social media channels. Two female suspects were also detained at the scene of the disabled vehicle.
This afternoon, around 5:40 p.m., officers quickly responded to a shoplifting incident at Walmart, where three individuals attempted to steal a large amount of merchandise. As they fled, one suspect assaulted a store employee, and all three suspects left in a vehicle.
— Mt. Juliet Police (@MtJulietPolice) October 20, 2024
Officers… pic.twitter.com/GiJ81NTf7D
All of the stolen items, apparently a significant number of Legos, which the suspects likely intended to resale, were recovered from the vehicle. "No serious injuries were reported," MJPD shared, conveying a concern for the well-being of all parties involved. The identities of the three suspects and the specific charges they face are yet to be disclosed to the public as the investigation continues.
While no further details have been released regarding what prompted the theft, the Mt. Juliet police are now processing the evidence and ensuring that due process is followed. Community members and Walmart staff remain affected by the events that unfolded, and authorities are emphasizing their dedication to maintaining law and order.
