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3 Florida Wal-Mart Employees Charged in Suspected Shoplifter's Death

An autopsy showed thet 64-year-old victim died from mechanical asphyxiation while being restrained

Authorities say three Florida Wal-Mart employees have been charged in the death of a suspected shoplifter.

The Ledger reports that 35-year-old Nathan Allen Higgins, 23-year-old Crucelis Nunez and 58-year-old Randall Eugene Tomko were arrested Thursday and charged with manslaughter.

An autopsy showed that 64-year-old Kenneth E. Wisham died from mechanical asphyxiation while being restrained during a Feb. 7 struggle outside a Lakeland Wal-Mart. The exam showed that Wisham suffered 15 broken ribs.

Wal-Mart spokesman Charles Crowson said in an email that the employees have been suspended and their employment is under review. He says the company will continue to work with law enforcement officials.

Jail records didn't list attorneys for the Wal-Mart workers.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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