Statesboro, Georgia – A man was arrested Tuesday afternoon after allegedly threatening shoppers with what appeared to be a firearm inside a Statesboro Walmart, prompting a rapid police response and temporary store closure.
According to the Statesboro Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 12:47 p.m. to the Walmart located at 147 Northside Drive East after Bulloch County 911 received multiple calls reporting a man in possession of what appeared to be a firearm inside the store.
Police said the suspect broke into a glass display case using a tool, stole a BB gun, and then approached a female customer and her child in a threatening manner. Walmart staff were able to isolate the suspect in the Garden Center, allowing officers to take him into custody without further incident. The store was temporarily closed while officers ensured the safety of employees and customers.
Investigators later confirmed the weapon involved was a BB gun, not a functioning firearm. Authorities said the victims, who had no prior relationship with the suspect, were able to flee the store unharmed.
The suspect was identified as Nathaniel Anthony Jones, 40, formerly of Portal, Georgia. Police said Jones had been released from the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections on Feb. 9, one day prior to the incident, after serving a sentence for burglary.
Following an interview with detectives, Jones was transported to the Bulloch County Jail and charged with Aggravated Assault and Burglary in the Second Degree. He remains in custody with a hold placed on his release.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information or video footage related to the incident is encouraged to contact Senior Detective Cross at 912-764-9911. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the department’s website.
Authorities emphasized that swift coordination between store employees and law enforcement helped prevent injuries during the incident.
