A Nevada woman has been charged after police say an argument with another shopper at a Las Vegas Walmart escalated into a shooting that left one man critically injured and her husband dead. Investigators allege the woman called her husband to the store and told him to bring a firearm following the confrontation.
Incident
According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), the incident occurred on July 21 at a Walmart on Boulder Highway in East Las Vegas.
Police allege Raqiya Ward became involved in a verbal altercation with Kwame Swain outside the store after exchanging comments as she walked past Swain and his girlfriend.
Investigators said the argument escalated into a physical fight during which punches and rocks were reportedly thrown.
Witnesses told police that Ward called her husband, Travis Ward, and instructed him to come to the store with a gun.
Shooting
According to the arrest report, Travis Ward arrived at the Walmart carrying a handgun.
Police allege that after entering the store, he confronted Swain and fired multiple shots. Investigators said the firearm later malfunctioned while he was attempting to continue shooting.
The gunfire caused customers and employees to flee as officers responded to emergency calls.
| Incident Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | July 21 |
| Location | Walmart, Boulder Highway, Las Vegas |
| Suspect Charged | Raqiya Ward |
| Injured | Kwame Swain |
| Deceased | Travis Ward |
Police Response
LVMPD officers arrived at the store shortly after it opened.
According to police, an officer heard what appeared to be a gunshot from inside the building and then saw Travis Ward exiting the store while holding a firearm.
Police said the responding officer fired at Travis Ward, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officers then entered the Walmart and found Swain suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a hospital in critical condition.
Charges
Raqiya Ward has been charged with:
- Battery with a deadly weapon
- Disregard for the safety of persons or property
- Conspiracy to commit battery
Another woman, identified by authorities as Ameea Blue, was also arrested in connection with the incident.
According to local reports, Ward is being held without bail, while Blue is being held on a $25,000 bail.
Witnesses
Customers inside the Walmart described a chaotic scene as the shooting unfolded.
Several shoppers told local media they were surprised by the violence and immediately sought safety after hearing gunfire inside the store.
Police said the incident caused panic among customers and employees who were shopping during the early morning hours.
Investigation
Prosecutors allege the confrontation began with the initial physical altercation and escalated after Travis Ward was called to the scene with a firearm.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing evidence and witness statements.
As with all criminal proceedings, the charges against Raqiya Ward and Ameea Blue are allegations. Both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
FAQs
Where did the Walmart shooting happen?
The incident occurred at a Walmart on Boulder Highway in Las Vegas.
Who was charged in the case?
Police charged Raqiya Ward in connection with the incident.
What happened to the alleged shooter?
Police said Travis Ward was shot by a responding officer and died at the scene.
Who was injured during the shooting?
Kwame Swain was hospitalized in critical condition.
Is the investigation complete?
No. The investigation and court proceedings are ongoing.
