CVS Security Guard Gunned Down by Shoplifters

A 39-year-old security guard was fatally shot while confronting shoplifters at a CVS Pharmacy in downtown Dallas, Texas, leading to the arrest of two juvenile suspects.

Anthony Egeonu encountered the suspects inside the store at 1400 block of Main Street just after 11 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2025. When he attempted to stop the shoplifting in progress, one of the suspects pulled out a gun and opened fire before both fled the scene. Egeonu was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. 

Dallas police launched an immediate investigation and took two juvenile suspects into custody less than 24 hours after the shooting. Due to their ages, their identities have not been released to the public. The police department’s detective division is continuing its investigation of the incident. 

The shooting was captured on the store’s security cameras, which showed Egeonu confronting the suspects near the front of the store before one suspect drew a firearm and shot him. Both suspects then fled through the main entrance. Other customers and employees were present in the store at the time of the shooting. 

Dallas Police responded within minutes of receiving the 911 call at 11:07 p.m. Officers secured the crime scene and immediately began reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses. By Saturday afternoon, investigators had identified and located both suspects, leading to their arrests in separate locations in Dallas. 

Egeonu, who worked for a third-party security company contracted by CVS, was the sole provider for his family, including his wife, Octavia, and their three children. His wife noted that while they knew the job’s risks, her husband “had always been passionate about law enforcement.” 

The victim’s mother, Gwendolyn Pipkins, who previously lost another son to violence, expressed her faith in the justice system, stating, “The Lord will ensure justice is served.” The family has announced they will rely heavily on their faith for closure during this difficult time. 

Amy Thibault, CVS Health’s lead director of external communications, confirmed the company’s cooperation with law enforcement: “We’re cooperating with Dallas Police as they investigate the incident that occurred at our Main Street store last night.” 

The store temporarily suspended operations following the shooting and remained closed until 10 a.m. Saturday, opening three hours later than usual. The pharmacy resumed normal operations along with the store.

Residents have expressed concerns about safety in the area. Rebekah Montgomery, who has lived in an apartment building next to the retailer for two years, said, “I will probably not go to the CVS alone. I don’t want to be constantly worried that someone could come in and do that. It’s kind of crazy to think that someone could just go in and shoot someone.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Egeonu’s family with living expenses. The campaign describes him as “a dedicated and hardworking individual” and “a beloved figure in our community, known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his loved ones.” The fundraising effort aims to provide stability for his wife and children. The fundraising effort has already generated almost $5500. 

The Dallas Police Department continues to gather evidence and statements from witnesses. Authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the detective division directly.

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