Authorities in Georgia reported that a Walmart employee suspected of fatally shooting two colleagues and injuring another passed away on April 13 from his injuries. Dwayne Eduh, a 24-year-old worker at the Walmart store in Covington, is believed to have shot and killed Khalaf Barksdale, 21, and Akeela Clarke, 19, around 1:30 a.m. on April 11. A third colleague, Ryan Bradley, 29, was also injured but was in stable condition. The suspect allegedly retrieved a firearm from outside the building and fatally shot Barksdale, then shot Bradley before going to a nearby residence and fatally shooting Clarke.
Eduh fled to South Carolina after the shooting, leading to a standoff with law enforcement near Aiken. He ultimately shot himself and was taken to a hospital in critical condition, where he later died. The motive behind the incident remains unknown, but authorities mentioned that the suspect targeted individuals he knew. Walmart expressed sadness over the situation, stating that there is no place for violence in their stores and they are supporting the investigation.
Friends and family remembered the victims, with a GoFundMe account set up for Clarke’s memorial services describing her as a vibrant and joyful individual. Barksdale was also honored as a beloved coworker and friend. The community mourned the loss of these young individuals due to the tragic act of gun violence.