Disturbing Scene at Avon Walmart: Man Pulls Firearm in Store

A disturbing incident unfolded Sunday morning, February 2nd, at the Avon Walmart involving a firearm inside the store.

According to court documents, the incident occurred at approximately 11:42 a.m. in the customer service area of Walmart.

Investigators say a 73-year-old male pulled a firearm from his jacket and reportedly held the weapon up to his own head while inside the store. Walmart employees immediately alerted an off-duty Avon Police officer who was present at the location at the time.

Before officers were able to confront the individual inside the store, the suspect reportedly left Walmart and drove away.

The off-duty officer, identified as Patrolman Brace, forwarded photos of the suspect to an intelligence analyst with the Avon Police Department. Authorities were then able to identify the suspect and locate an address connected to him.

Sometime later, Officer Brace responded to 1749 N Lynhurst Drive, where he made contact with the suspect, who was identified as Jerry Garten. Garten was taken into custody and transported to the Hendricks County Jail.

Police also confirmed that a search warrant was served at Garten’s residence on Monday, where several firearms and ammunition were reportedly seized.

The incident remains under investigation, and additional information may be released as it becomes available.