What began as a Family Dollar shoplifting incident turned into much more. A confrontation at a Family Dollar in northwest Charlotte escalated when teenagers, kicked out for shoplifting, returned with a firearm, leading to a police investigation.

CHARLOTTE, NC (1-minute read) — Chaos erupted at a Family Dollar store in northwest Charlotte on Wednesday night when a group of teenagers returned with a firearm after being kicked out. The incident occurred on Valleydale Road and began when the teens were ejected for shoplifting.

According to a tipster who spoke with local reporter Ken Lemon, the teens initially left but soon came back with more people and at least one firearm. Security footage from inside the store captured the moment someone brandished the firearm upon entering the door.

The tipster further revealed that an adult instructed the teenagers to take whatever they wanted from the store. During the ensuing scuffle, one individual pointed the firearm at the manager.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department stated that no arrests have been made so far, leaving the community concerned and seeking answers.

Safety Tip: Always remain aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activities to authorities. Responsible gun ownership includes securing firearms away from children and unauthorized users.