Georgia Walmart Shooting Leaves Two Dead, Suspect Injured

A violent overnight shooting spree at a Walmart in Georgia has left two people dead and another critically injured. Authorities say the suspect, who was reportedly an employee at the store, later fled the state and was captured following a standoff in South Carolina.

Shooting Begins Inside Closed Walmart

Around 1:30 A.M. Friday, Newton County Sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of gunfire at the Walmart on Salem Road in Covington, Georgia — approximately 35 miles southeast of Atlanta. The store was closed to the public at the time, with only employees present inside. According to investigators, one of the employees briefly left the store, retrieved a firearm, and then reentered. Once inside, the suspect confronted a co-worker and fatally shot them. The suspect then moved outside the store, where they shot another employee. That victim was transported to a local hospital and remains in critical condition. Officials have clarified that the incident was not a random act of violence but a targeted attack. “This was not an active shooter situation,” the Newton County Sheriff’s Office said. “The suspect specifically targeted individuals they knew.”

Additional Victim Found in Nearby Home

Shortly after the Walmart shooting, law enforcement received reports of a second fatal shooting nearby. Investigators say the same suspect broke into a home on Emerson Trail, not far from the store, and fatally shot a woman. Authorities believe this victim also had a personal connection to the shooter. The swift succession of shootings has left the local community in shock, prompting concerns about workplace safety and domestic violence. The identities of the victims have not yet been released, pending family notifications.

Suspect Flees and Standoff on I-20 in South Carolina

After the shootings, the suspect fled the area and crossed state lines into South Carolina. Authorities located the individual traveling on Interstate 20 near Aiken. A standoff ensued, during which the suspect shot himself before officers could take him into custody. No law enforcement officers were injured during the confrontation. The suspect was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. His condition has not been publicly disclosed, and his identity remains withheld as the investigation continues.

Investigation Ongoing, Walmart Remains Closed

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing. They are working to establish a motive and to determine the relationships between the suspect and the victims. No further details have been provided at this time. As a result of the violence, the Covington Walmart will remain closed to the public for the remainder of the day. Authorities say the store will reopen once the scene has been fully processed and deemed safe.