Newly released surveillance footage is shedding new light on the fatal January police shooting of a Gastonia man outside Jakob’s Food Mart.
The shooting happened January 10 while undercover Gastonia Police Department officers were conducting an underage alcohol compliance check inside the store on Gaston Avenue.
Investigators say Manigault got into an argument with another customer and made repeated threats before pulling what appeared to be a handgun from his waistband.
One undercover detective inside the store opened fire after seeing the apparent weapon. Manigault then ran outside. A second plainclothes detective outside the business also fired as Manigault crossed Airline Avenue. Part of the shooting was captured on cellphone video.
The district attorney’s report does not say whether officers gave verbal commands before shooting.
Officers rendered medical aid before paramedics arrived, but Manigault later died at the hospital.
Authorities later determined the apparent weapon was a Strike Industries Airsoft toy.
According to the Gaston County District Attorney, officers acted lawfully and will not face charges. However, Derrick Manigault’s wife says she plans to continue fighting for justice.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation investigated the shooting, while Gastonia Police say an internal review is still underway.
