ARLINGTON, Va. – The Arlington County Police Department has arrested Gary McDonald, 50, after a shoplifting incident escalated into a violent confrontation. McDonald, who has no fixed address, is facing multiple charges including AttemptedMalicious Wounding of a Law Enforcement Officer, Disarming a Law Enforcement Officer, Use of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Petit Larceny, and two counts of Obstruction of Justice. Additionally, McDonald was served with outstanding warrants from Loudoun County, Virginia. He is currently being held without bond at the Arlington County Detention Facility.
The incident occurred on August 7 at approximately 4:38 p.m., when police responded to a report of shoplifting in the 700 block of N. Glebe Road. McDonald allegedly concealed merchandise and attempted to leave the store without paying. Confronted by loss prevention personnel, McDonald fled the scene on foot.
Police quickly issued a lookout, and a responding officer located McDonald near 7th Street N. and N. Vermont Street. When ordered to stop, McDonald continued to run, prompting a foot chase. The officer caught up with him in the backyard of a residence on N. Vermont Street, where a struggle ensued. During the altercation, McDonald managed to grab the officer’s firearm and discharged a round. The officer regained control of the weapon, and with the assistance of other officers, McDonald was taken into custody.
No injuries were reported, but both the officer and McDonald were taken to a hospital for evaluation and later released.
Chief Andy Penn praised the officer’s actions, stating, “The officer demonstrated great bravery in the face of clear and present danger to himself and the community. 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.”
The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Arlington County Police Department’s Tip Line at 703-228-4180.
Booking photograph of Gary McDonald