Nationwide — Alexis Hill, a 44-year-old African American woman and store manager at a Dollar General in Columbus, Georgia, was shot and killed while helping a customer buy hamburger buns. The suspect later died after an armed confrontation with police at a separate location.
According to WLBT, the fatal shooting happened shortly after 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Dollar General, where Hill worked. Investigators said the customer was buying hamburger buns priced at $1.58.
The man reportedly handed Hill two crumpled $1 bills at the register. As she straightened the cash, he allegedly stepped aside, pulled out a handgun, and shot her.
Emergency responders arrived at the store, but Hill died from her injuries. Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan pronounced her dead at about 10:45 a.m.
The suspect fled the scene after the shooting. Police later tracked him to an area near Baker Plaza Drive, where a second confrontation unfolded.
Authorities said the suspect opened fire on responding officers, wounding one officer and a police K-9 named Havoc. Officers returned fire, killing the suspect, who was later identified as 33-year-old Jerome Willis.
The injured officer received medical treatment and is expected to make a full recovery. Havoc remains in stable condition and will require surgery.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is reviewing the officer-involved shooting. Officials said there is no ongoing threat to the public. Investigators have not announced a motive or explained why Willis allegedly targeted Hill.
Hill’s death has left family, friends, and coworkers mourning her loss. A friend described her as a positive and hardworking person who loved her job and had a way of making people laugh. She leaves behind three sons.
A GoFundMe campaign was created to support her family following her death. It has so far raised more than $6,500.