Fake Gun Pulled by Derrick Manigault Led to Justified Shooting by Undercover Police at Jakob’s Food Mart [VIDEO]

The Gaston County District Attorney has ruled the January shooting death of Derrick Manigault a justified homicide, confirming that no charges will be filed against the undercover officers involved. Newly released surveillance footage details the final moments before Manigault, 43, was fatally shot at Jakob’s Food Mart on Gaston Avenue in Gastonia.

The incident began around 5:30 p.m. on January 10, when Manigault arrived at the store and was observed tucking what appeared to be a black firearm into his waistband. While in the parking lot, Manigault engaged in a verbal altercation with another man that quickly escalated as both individuals entered the store. Surveillance audio captured Manigault repeatedly asking the man, "Are you trying to lose your life tonight?"

Two Gastonia police officers—a sergeant and a detective—were inside the mart at the time, conducting an undercover alcohol compliance operation. Alerted by the escalating confrontation, one officer observed Manigault holding the weapon at his side. Believing the man posed an immediate threat to shoppers and employees, the undercover sergeant fired several shots as Manigault moved toward the exit.

As Manigault fled the store with the weapon raised, a second plain-clothes detective waiting outside also opened fire, fearing Manigault was attempting to return fire. Manigault sustained four gunshot wounds, including a fatal shot to the chest, and later died at a local hospital. Investigators later confirmed the weapon Manigault brandished was a replica firearm.

District Attorney Travis Page stated in his official report that police are not required to "gamble with their lives in the face of a serious threat of harm." While the ruling provides legal closure for the officers, Manigault’s widow, Rebecca Insley, expressed profound heartbreak and rage over the decision. The investigation concluded that the officers acted within the law based on the perceived lethal threat of the replica gun.