Deputies Recover Loaded Firearm on Juvenile During Shoplifting Investigation at Walmart
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FREDERICK, Md. (October 7, 2026) – On October 4, 2026, deputies from the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Walmart located at 7400 Guilford Drive, Frederick, MD, for a reported shoplifting incident involving multiple juveniles.
Upon arrival, deputies located two teenage juveniles—a 15‑year‑old female and a 16‑year‑old male—along with two younger juveniles, approximately seven years old, who were observed concealing merchandise in backpacks. All four individuals were escorted to the store’s loss prevention office, where the stolen items were recovered.
During the investigation, deputies attempted to search the backpack belonging to the 15‑year‑old female. She clutched the bag tightly and began reaching inside, prompting deputies to remove the backpack for safety. Inside, deputies discovered a loaded Polymer 80 handgun with a round in the chamber and 15 additional rounds in the magazine.
Charges related to the firearm and theft were submitted to the Department of Juvenile Services.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office at 301‑600‑1046 or submit a tip through the FCSO tip line at 301‑600‑4131.
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The Frederick County Sheriff's Office (FCSO) is a full-service law enforcement agency, an arm of the court, and a keeper of offenders. In this regard, it exists to serve the more than 290,000 citizens of Frederick County with respect, fairness, and compassion. FCSO is committed to the prevention of crime; the protection of life and property; the preservation of peace and order; the enforcement of laws and ordinances; the safeguarding of constitutional guarantees; and safekeeping of prisoners. The men, women, and officers of this office nurture public trust by holding themselves to the highest standards of performance and ethics. The FCSO is located at 110 Airport Drive East, Frederick, MD, 21701. Visit www.frederickcosheriff.com for more information.
