In Monroe, North Carolina, a significant incident unfolded at the local Walmart on West Roosevelt Boulevard, leading to the arrest of an armed individual on Monday. The situation escalated when authorities received a distress call around 1 p.m., reporting a man donned in body armor and wielding a long rifle entering the grocery section of the store.
The individual, identified as 32-year-old Moja Kemet Estep from Monroe, was equipped with a bulletproof vest, an assault-type rifle, and two handguns. The police managed to detain him without any further complications. The arrest was captured on video by an onlooker, providing visual evidence of the event.
Vicki Foster, a former assistant chief with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, commented on the incident, highlighting the potential alarm caused by someone carrying multiple firearms. She acknowledged the police’s response and the public’s concern, emphasizing the difference in perception between carrying a long gun versus a pistol. Foster also advised the public to always contact 911 if they feel threatened or if their safety is at risk.
The incident sparked discussions on social media regarding Estep’s arrest, given North Carolina’s open carry laws. However, Foster pointed out that Walmart has a policy against carrying weapons on its premises. She explained that individual stores have the right to decide whether to allow open carry within their locations.
The UNC School of Government notes that charges typically arise when an individual is armed with an unusual and dangerous weapon with the intent to terrify others. Consequently, Estep was charged with going armed to the terror of the people and was taken to the Union County Jail. His bond was set at $5,000, and it was confirmed that there was no danger to the public.
As the investigation continues, no further details have been released. This event serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding open carry laws and the importance of store policies in ensuring public safety.