A man armed with a machete was arrested inside a Fort Pierce Walmart after police say he injured an officer during a violent encounter. The incident, which took place on August 30, 2025, has raised concerns about safety at retail locations in St. Lucie County.
Fort Pierce Walmart Machete Incident Details
The main keyword, Fort Pierce Walmart incident, describes a serious event that unfolded at the Walmart located in the 5100 block of Okeechobee Road. According to the Fort Pierce Police Department, officers responded to reports of a man wielding a machete inside the store. In a related case, a Fort Pierce man was previously arrested after a machete attack at Walmart, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in the area.
When officers arrived, they encountered the suspect, identified as Lawrence Mansfield Fountain Jr., who was reportedly swinging the machete in a threatening manner. During the attempt to detain him, a police officer sustained a laceration to the arm.
Police Response and Arrest at Fort Pierce Walmart
Officers acted quickly to control the situation. According to the police, the man resisted arrest and continued to act violently before being subdued. The officer who was injured was transported to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce for treatment.
The suspect, Fountain, was also taken to the same hospital for an unspecified injury before being booked into the St. Lucie County Jail just after 3:30 a.m. on August 31. Police confirmed that the injured officer is expected to make a full recovery.
Charges Filed in Fort Pierce Walmart Incident
Lawrence Mansfield Fountain Jr. faces several charges related to the Fort Pierce Walmart incident. These include:
- Aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer
- Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill
- Resisting arrest with violence
- Larceny
- Disturbing the peace
Fountain is being held on a $512,000 bond at the St. Lucie County Jail. The investigation remains active, and authorities are seeking any additional information from the public. In other recent law enforcement actions, guns and ammunition were seized in Fort Pierce after threats against the president, demonstrating the ongoing vigilance of local authorities.
Community Safety Concerns in St. Lucie County
The Fort Pierce Walmart incident has highlighted ongoing concerns about public safety in retail environments across St. Lucie County. Law enforcement agencies continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activity.
Police encourage anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact the Fort Pierce Police Department. Community members can also submit anonymous tips through Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers. In a separate event, a St. Lucie County deputy was arrested in Port St. Lucie for a road rage burglary incident, further raising community concerns about safety and law enforcement conduct.
How to Submit Anonymous Tips
- Call Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-800-273-TIPS
- Submit a tip online via the Crime Stoppers website
- Use the Crime Stoppers mobile app
These options provide a secure way for residents to assist law enforcement while remaining anonymous. Cash rewards may be available for information leading to an arrest.
Law Enforcement and Medical Response
After the machete attack at the Fort Pierce Walmart, emergency responders acted swiftly. The injured officer received immediate medical attention at HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital. Hospital staff confirmed that the officer is expected to recover fully.
Fountain, the suspect, was also treated for an injury before being transferred to jail. Details about his injury were not available as of September 1, 2025.
Ongoing Investigation
The Fort Pierce Police Department is continuing its investigation into the Walmart machete incident. Officers are reviewing surveillance footage and collecting witness statements to piece together the sequence of events.
Authorities have not released further details about the motive or the events leading up to the confrontation. The public is urged to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Pierce Walmart Incident
What happened during the Fort Pierce Walmart incident?
Police say a man armed with a machete entered the Walmart on Okeechobee Road in Fort Pierce and injured an officer during a struggle. The suspect was arrested after a brief confrontation.
How much is the bond for the suspect in the Fort Pierce Walmart machete attack?
The suspect, Lawrence Mansfield Fountain Jr., is being held on a $512,000 bond at the St. Lucie County Jail.
Are there other recent incidents at Walmart stores in St. Lucie County?
While this machete incident is notable, law enforcement regularly responds to various calls at retail locations in St. Lucie County. Each case is handled according to its specific circumstances.
Can you submit tips about the Fort Pierce Walmart incident anonymously?
Yes, anonymous tips can be submitted to Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers by phone, online, or through their mobile app. Information leading to an arrest may qualify for a cash reward.
Where are police and medical services located for incidents in Fort Pierce?
The Fort Pierce Police Department responds to incidents throughout the city, and injured individuals are often treated at HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital, a major medical center in Fort Pierce.
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