Egan, who had worked for Morrisons since he was 17 and was 46 at the time, intervened when a repeat shoplifter attempted to leave with stolen goods. According to Daily Mail - News, Egan described his instant reaction as flinging his arm back and then grabbing the shoplifter's arm to prevent him from reaching into his bag. Police were called to the scene, though the outcome of their investigation remains unclear.
At a disciplinary hearing, Egan was told he would be sacked for not following company policy, which emphasizes de-escalation over detention. His last paycheck arrived in January, and he has since faced difficulties supporting his family. Morrisons has not commented on Egan's specific case, citing a policy of not discussing individual matters.
We are continuing to take wide ranging action to address the threat of shoplifting or violence in our stores. The health and safety of all colleagues and customers is of paramount importance to Morrisons. We have very clear guidance, procedures and controls in place to protect our colleagues and customers from the risk of harm, which must be strictly followed. These include detailed procedures for handling shoplifting incidents, which are in place to protect both the colleague involved and surrounding colleagues and customers, and which seek to de-escalate and calmly control the situation. We will not ask colleagues to put themselves at risk. As a responsible employer, our focus is entirely on taking the correct action to ensure health and safety is maintained at all times.
In a statement, the supermarket chain outlined its approach to safety, noting it has clear guidance and procedures to protect colleagues and customers from harm. According to Daily Mail - News, Egan expressed feeling that his decades of dedication were attacked in the moment, adding that his thought was to stop the individual from potentially harming others. It is unknown whether Egan has filed any legal claims or appeals against his dismissal, or what specific support Morrisons may have offered.
The company reiterated that it will not ask colleagues to put themselves at risk, focusing on maintaining health and safety at all times.