Cops Fatally Shoot Woman Who Held Walmart Employee Hostage At Gunpoint

A woman who held a Walmart store employee hostage was fatally shot and killed by police in Mississippi.

Corlunda McGinister, 21, of West Helena, Arkansas, entered Walmart in Richland and had a confrontation with one of the staffers in the customer service department Wednesday evening. Armed with a gun, the woman then held the employee hostage, according to AP News.

McGinister further yelled that she needed help and demanded to speak to a news anchor, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety said in a news release.

"Is she pointing a gun at people?" a voice said during a recorded exchange between Rankin County police and fire dispatch as the incident unfolded.

"Last thing I was told is somebody walked in with a gun and yelled out that they want a news anchor there. I'm trying to get further," said a response.

A video shared on social media showed McGinister holding a gun in one hand and using the other hand to hold onto the Walmart employee. In another video, police were reportedly heard telling McGinister to put her hands up. In response, she yelled that she was not trying to hurt anyone.

Shortly after the confrontation, cops ended up shooting at McGinister, who then died at the scene. Nobody else inside the store was harmed in the incident, officials said.

RPD had an officer involved shooting this evening at Walmart, all of our officers are safe! Walmart is secure and closed at this time. MBI will be conducting an independent investigation.

"It's devastating for all parties involved — the officers, everybody that was involved in this situation," Richland police Chief Nick McLendon said, as quoted by WAPT-TV. "You know, with the Christmas season coming, mental health is a big deal because of the stress involved in the Christmas season."

McLendon added people can get in touch with the Richland Police Department if they need help.

The Walmart store opened its doors to customers the day after the hostage situation. Law enforcement officials were still present inside and outside the store to ensure the safety of shoppers.

"Everybody is frustrated, in a panic," a shopper, Malik Nguyen, told WLBT.

"You never know what she was going through... respects for her and her family. But, you know, everything has consequences for what you do," Nguyen added.

Another customer named Carl Carr said the situation was "unbelievable really."

"This time of the year and season things get worse no matter where you are. I'm sad for both families, both families," Carr added.

An investigation was launched into the incident by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation.