Newton County Man Found Guilty of Shooting Walmart Employee in Parking Lot

On Thursday, July 17, 2025, a Newton County jury found David Ruffin, Jr. guilty of Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony, Tampering with Evidence, and Criminal Trespass. During further deliberations, Ruffin pleaded guilty to additional charges of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

The case stems from an incident on December 30, 2023, when Ruffin assaulted and shot a Walmart employee in the parking lot of the Salem Road Walmart in Covington. The altercation began after the employee had a dispute with Ruffin’s mother, prompting Ruffin to intervene. Multiple witnesses called 911 to report the shooting. At trial, Ruffin claimed he acted in defense of his mother, but the jury rejected this defense based on the evidence.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation and arrest. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Brooks, with assistance from Trial Assistant Danielle Miller, Investigator Colin Cunningham, Victim Advocate Sophie Conner, and Legal Assistant Desiree Kozikowski.

Ruffin, a convicted felon at the time of the incident, remains in custody awaiting sentencing.

District Attorney Randy McGinley stated, “The District Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting violent offenses that put our communities at risk. I am proud of the prosecution team, my entire office, local law enforcement, and the members of the public who called 911 and cooperated with law enforcement.”