Arlington police release footage of fatal 7-Eleven shooting

Arlington County police have released body camera footage documenting the fatal shooting of 33-year-old Shawn Valn during a standoff at a 7-Eleven on Columbia Pike. The incident, which occurred on May 8, 2026, began after police responded to a 911 call regarding a man threatening a woman.

According to police, Valn barricaded himself in a storage area of the store. Following a nearly three-hour negotiation attempt, officers breached the door. After several unsuccessful attempts to subdue Valn using tasers, less-lethal projectiles, irritant sprays, and a police K-9, Valn reportedly lunged at officers while holding a knife above his head. Two officers fired their weapons, killing him.

Police Chief Andy Penn stated that the officers involved are both corporals with six and seven years of service, respectively, and are currently in a restrictive duty capacity. The Office of the Arlington County Commonwealth’s Attorney is investigating the incident, and a grand jury inquiry is underway.