DETROIT – A Detroit family is seeking answers after a viral Facebook Live video on Monday showed Family Dollar store employees dragging a woman, identified as Sunda Carter, out of the store during an alleged shoplifting incident at the chain’s Grand River location.
The confrontation captured on video shows employees struggling with Carter before dragging her from the premises, an incident that has raised concerns about how retail establishments handle suspected shoplifting cases involving individuals with mental health challenges.
“The video gets worse and worse the more you see it,” said Faith Carter, the woman’s sister, who first spotted the viral video and alerted their mother, Mildred Thomas.
Family members revealed that Sunda Carter struggles with mental illness and is currently homeless, highlighting a broader challenge facing many Detroit residents. Thomas, who cares for Carter’s children, says the family has faced challenges in securing help for her.
The family contends that the store employees’ actions were excessive and potentially dangerous.
“Yes, it is wrong to steal, but they could have called the police. There are other ways to go about it,” Faith Carter said. “This could have really escalated. She could have passed out. She could have had a heart attack.”
After viewing the video, Thomas visited the store seeking explanations about the incident.
“I need Family Dollar to reach out to me. I don’t need to reach out to Family Dollar,” Thomas stated.
The family indicated they may pursue legal action.
A store employee told Local 4 they couldn’t comment on the incident. Local 4 also reached out to the Family Dollar media contact, but the company has yet to respond.
During our interview, the family of Sunda Carter shared that they were unable to locate her and were concerned about her health and safety.
Detroit police later confirmed they have one person in custody, but would not say if it is the alleged shoplifter.
They also said their investigation is ongoing.