In a tragic series of events early Friday morning, two people were killed and one seriously injured after a Walmart employee in Covington, Georgia, opened fire and later broke into a nearby home, where another fatal shooting took place. Authorities confirmed that the suspect targeted people he knew and described the incident as a planned attack rather than an active shooter situation.
What Happened at the Covington Walmart?
At around 1:30 a.m. on April 11, 2025, Newton County deputies responded to reports of a shooting at a Walmart on Salem Road. According to police, the store was closed to the public at the time, and only employees were inside.
Investigators say the suspect, who was an employee of the store, briefly left the building, retrieved a handgun, and then returned. He located and fatally shot a co-worker inside the store. After that, the suspect exited and shot a second employee outside the Walmart. That victim was left in critical condition and transported to a nearby hospital.
Second Attack at Nearby Home
The violence didn’t end there. Police say the suspect then drove two miles to a house on Emerson Trail, where he broke in and shot 19-year-old Akeela Clarke, another Walmart employee. According to Clarke’s family, the shooter broke down the front door and killed her in front of her mother while her younger sister hid nearby.
Police confirmed that all victims were acquaintances of the shooter. The motive remains unclear, and investigators are still piecing together the relationship between the suspect and the victims.
Suspect Apprehended After Multi-State Manhunt
The suspect fled the scene following the shootings. Law enforcement located him approximately 150 miles away in Aiken, South Carolina. He was found during the early morning hours and was involved in a standoff with police.
During the standoff, the suspect reportedly shot himself. He was immediately taken to a hospital for treatment. Authorities have not released his name, and his current medical condition is unknown.
Official Statement from Newton County Sheriff’s Office
In an official statement, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the shooting was not a random act of violence. “This was not an active shooter situation,” the statement said. “The suspect specifically targeted individuals they knew.”
Sergeant Jack Redlinger also confirmed that law enforcement agencies from Georgia and South Carolina worked together in capturing the suspect. The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities continue to gather information from the crime scenes and witnesses.
A Troubling Pattern
Unfortunately, this is not the first time violence has struck the Covington Walmart location. In a previous incident in October, two men were arrested for exchanging gunfire in the parking lot after a disagreement. This latest tragedy has once again raised concerns about safety in and around the store.
Community Reacts
As news of the shooting spreads, the community is in shock and mourning. Clarke’s family described her as a young woman with a bright future and expressed deep sorrow over the horrific events. Community leaders and residents have called for increased security measures and support for employees.