GASTONIA, NC (2 minute read) – A traffic mishap escalated into a shooting at a Gaston County Walmart, where a woman with three children in her car was shot by a police officer. The incident occurred early Thursday morning at the Walmart on East Franklin Boulevard.
The series of events began when the woman, driving a black Nissan Altima, collided with a median in the parking lot, causing a tree to fall. After the crash, a bystander approached to assist, only to be met with gunfire from the woman, though no injuries were reported from this exchange.
As the situation intensified with the arrival of police officers, the woman reportedly fired at them, prompting return fire that resulted in her being shot. The specifics of her condition remain undisclosed, and the charges she may face are yet to be announced.
In the vehicle, children aged 10, 7, and 1 were present during the ordeal. The youngest was transported to a hospital for a respiratory issue, which authorities stated was a precautionary measure unrelated to the gunfire.
Currently, an internal review is in progress, and the State Bureau of Investigation has taken charge of the case. The identity of the woman involved has not been released as investigations continue.
Firearm Safety Tip: Always secure firearms out of the reach of children and unauthorized individuals, particularly in vehicles and during stressful situations.
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