Arlington County: Shoplifter disarms arresting officer, fires shot during struggle

A shoplifting suspect who disarmed an Arlington County police officer and fired a round during his arrest faces multiple charges.

Gary McDonald, 50, is being held without bond in the Arlington County Detention Facility.

According to an Arlington County PD report, McDonald had been confronted by loss-prevention personnel at a store on the 700 block of North Glebe Road on Wednesday after concealing merchandise and trying to exit the store without paying.

McDonald reportedly ran from the scene, and he was later located by a responding officer in the area of 7th Street North and North Vermont Street.

McDonald, according to the report, attempted to flee that scene, and ran into the backyard of a residence in the 700 block of North Vermont Street, where the officer attempted to take him into custody.

The suspect was non-compliant and actively fought the officer, during which he grabbed the officer’s firearm. A struggle for the firearm ensued, and the suspect discharged a round from the weapon. The officer then regained control of his weapon and, with the assistance of additional arriving officers, took the suspect into custody without further incident.

No injuries were reported. As a precautionary measure, the officer and suspect were transported to an area hospital for medical evaluation and subsequently released.

“The officer demonstrated great bravery in the face of clear and present danger to himself and the community,” Arlington County Police Chief Andy Penn said. “His quick actions to subdue the non-compliant suspect brought a safe resolution to an active threat. I am thankful the officer was not injured and that a dangerous individual is now in police custody to be held accountable for his actions.”

This remains an active investigation, and anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Arlington County Police Department’s Tip Line at 703-228-4180 or [email protected].

Information may also be reported anonymously through the Arlington County Crime Solvers hotline at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).