Man trying to sneak items from Walmart accidentally fires flare gun, TX cops say

An accused shoplifter’s attempt to fly under the radar was ruined when he accidentally fired a flare gun inside a Walmart and “caused panic,” according to Texas police.

It happened at night on Saturday, April 19, at a Walmart in Kilgore, the police department said in a news release.

A 911 caller said a man was seen “concealing items” on his person and also holding a gun, which went off, police said. After shooting the flare gun, the man quickly made his way toward the exit, the caller said.

However, officers arrived at the scene and detained him.

“Further investigation revealed the subject concealed merchandise, including a flare gun, and accidentally discharged the flare gun inside the store,” police said. “The suspect then placed the flare gun on a shelf and walked away.”

He was arrested oncharges of theft of property and disorderly conduct, according to police.

“We know this incident was alarming at the time for those who heard the flare gun discharge. The night shift officers arrived quickly and took him into custody without incident. Thankfully, he didn’t have a handgun, and no one was injured,” police said.

Kilgore is a roughly 120-mile drive southeast from Dallas.

This story was originally published April 20, 2025 at 3:17 PM with the headline "Man trying to sneak items from Walmart accidentally fires flare gun, TX cops say."