NEW HANOVER COUNTY, N.C. — A tragic incident at a Walmart on Carolina Beach Road turned a busy Saturday evening into a scene of chaos and heartbreak. Mark Paz was killed during an altercation on Nov. 2, 2024, allegedly initiated by a theft attempt, leading to a shooting that has left lasting scars on the community and the individuals involved.
Dean Newman, who faces first-degree murder charges in connection with Paz’s death, recently spoke about the events of that night. Reflecting on the incident a year later, Newman expressed deep remorse for his actions, revealing the mental toll it has taken on him.
“Every day, I think about Mark and his family,” Newman shared. “I wish I could take it all back.” His sentiments highlight the unimaginable burden he carries, having not only taken a life but also altered the future for Paz’s loved ones.
Newman, who has a history of criminal behavior dating back to 2008, was struggling with addiction at the time of the shooting. He recounted battling methamphetamine addiction and acknowledged that drug use had blurred his memory of that fateful night. “I don’t remember everything clearly; I was in a delusional state,” he admitted, emphasizing the fragmentary recollections he has of the altercation.
According to officials from the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, the confrontation escalated rapidly after multiple store employees confronted Newman, believing he was stealing. In the chaos, Newman reportedly drew a firearm and fatally shot Paz, who was near the scene but not among those directly engaging with him.
Following the shooting, Newman fell silent for days, only to awaken to the grim news of a man’s death at his own hands. “I just remember waking up a few days later and hearing the terrible news,” he recalled, a stark reminder of the life-altering consequences of a moment of anger and fear.
As he navigates his incarceration, Newman has found solace in religion and seeks to transform his life. He urges others grappling with addiction to seek help. “Meth is very dangerous,” he warned. “I urge anyone in that situation to talk to someone or get professional assistance. It can destroy your life.”
Looking back, Newman recognizes that his regret cannot reverse the harm he has caused. “No amount of words can ease the pain of losing someone,” he acknowledged, conveying a sense of helplessness in the face of his actions.
The legal proceedings are ongoing, and while Newman’s fate is yet to be determined, the impact of that night reverberates through the community, leaving a profound sense of loss and the need for healing. As the court case continues, the legacy of Mark Paz remains a haunting reminder of the fragility of life and the lasting influence of choices made under duress.