BROWN DEER, WI – A former employee of Walmart is facing two felony charges following a shooting incident that took place outside the store in Brown Deer on March 1. Carlton Young, 21, has been charged with first-degree reckless endangerment and endangering safety by use of a dangerous weapon. Walmart confirmed that the company no longer employs Young.
The incident happened around 3:15 p.m. near 64th and Brown Deer. It first appeared to be a fight, according to initial police reports. As officers arrived at the scene, it became clear that shots were fired in the parking lot. Witnesses reported seeing the shooter flee from the scene while those involved in the initial fight left the scene in their car, which was hit by bullets as they drove away.
An internal investigation by Walmart revealed that Young, a fellow employee, was involved in a fight with two individuals in the customer area. After the brawl was broken up, Young followed the pair to the parking lot and allegedly fired shots at their SUV.
Upon searching the area, the police apprehended Young just north of the store in a residential area, finding a handgun in his waistband.
Store surveillance footage corroborated the account given by the Walmart employee. The footage also showed several customers close to Young when he fired his weapon.
In discussions with detectives, Young claimed he acted in self-defense because he had been attacked. He maintained that he did not know any of the individuals previously.
The store is back open and serving customers, despite retail violence becoming worryingly common. Young had his initial court appearance on March 6 and his bond was set at $7,500.