Kennewick Walmart Loss Officer Shoots Black Friday Shoplifter

A shoplifting suspect is behind bars after being shot by a Walmart Loss Officer at the Kennewick location on Black Friday.

According to a press release from the Kennewick Police Department, details of the incident are unfolding.

Kennewick Police Responded To An Active Shooter Situation At Walmart

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KPD issued details of the incident that occurred roughly about 12:45 PM on Friday afternoon.

On 11-26-2021 at 12:46 PM, the Kennewick Police Department was dispatched to the report of a shooting in the Kennewick Walmart parking lot. Additional 911 calls were received as officers responded stating that there was an active shooter in the store. KPD officers, the Benton County, WA Sheriff's Office, and the Washington State Patrol responded to the area.

Upon police arrival, it was determined that there was not an active shooter but that a shooting had occurred in the south portion of the parking lot.

KPD detectives were called to the scene.

The investigation revealed that a Walmart Loss Prevention Officer (LPO) went to contact a theft suspect in the parking lot. The suspect left the store with unpaid-for merchandise. During the contact, the suspect, Alexander Yell, displayed a firearm. The LPO, a concealed carry permit holder, drew his own firearm and fired several shots at Yell. Yell was struck multiple times by the gunfire.

Yell then ran to his vehicle and fled.

During the investigation, information was received of where Yell was located. KPD officers contacted a residence in the 1700 block of W 5th Ave where they observed the suspect vehicle. After a short period of negotiations, Yell came out of the residence without incident and was transported via ambulance to a local area hospital where he is being treated for his wounds.

Yell will be charged with Assault 2nd degree and Robbery 1st degree. Yell will also be booked for 9 outstanding warrants for his arrest. Additional charges are forthcoming.

At this point in the investigation, there will be no charges brought against the LPO.
The Kennewick Walmart was closed until about 2:30 PM during the investigation.
This is an ongoing investigation.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, please call CID Sgt Remie Rees or provide information at www.kpdtips.com