Man Shot During Dispute Near Walmart Identified, Charges Not Expected to Be Filed

The Washoe County Medical Examiner's Office has identified the man shot and killed during a dispute in the parking lot of a Reno Walmart on Thanksgiving night. 

Authorities say 33-year-old Matthew D. McGraw of Reno died on scene at the Walmart, located at E. 2nd Street around 6 p.m. on Thursday night.

According to Lt. Scott Shaw, the Reno Police Department responded to shots fired around 6 p.m. near the exit between Walmart and 2nd Street.

After speaking with the other driver and witnesses, police say the driver of the first vehicle unintentionally cut-off McGraw in the parking lot and when both vehicles stopped, McGraw exited his vehicle with a metal baton and began to beat the first driver's vehicle. Officials say McGraw continued hitting the first driver's vehicle, breaking the driver’s side window. The first driver reported being hit in the face and said that in response, fired his gun several times from inside his vehicle striking McGraw who was pronounced deceased on scene.  

Authorities say the driver of the first vehicle told investigators he was still in fear for his life and left the scene.  Just after midnight police found the unidentified man with a car and a gun. 

The Reno Police Department say all parties involved have been located as well as the vehicles and firearm involved in the shooting. No arrests have been made as the investigation is still ongoing, but police do not anticipate charges being filed at this time. They say it could be a possible case of self-defense.

"People do have the right to defend themselves. It could be a self-defense type case. It could also be something as simple as investigators are not done with the investigation. They're not at a point where they can take action," said Lt. Sean Garlock, with the Reno Police Department. 

While this happened during Black Friday shopping on Thanksgiving, there doesn't appear to be a connection. 

One witness describes seeing the aftermath of this deadly encounter. Vallerie Bozman said, "When I drove by, I saw a guy on the ground. And they were doing CPR on him. I found out there was a shooting, which is pretty crazy."

Anyone with information relating to this crime or the suspect(s) should contact the Reno Police Department at 334-2115 or Secret Witness at 322-4900. You can also text the tip to 847411 (TIP 411) Keyword- SW. Your information will remain anonymous.