Tragic Shooting at Covington Walmart Leaves Two Employees Dead, One Critically Injured; Suspect in Custody After Multi-State Manhunt
COVINGTON, GEORGIA — April 11, 2025 — A shocking act of workplace violence unfolded early Friday morning at a Walmart in Covington, Georgia, where two employees were fatally shot and a third was critically wounded in what authorities have described as a targeted attack by a fellow co-worker. The suspect, 24-year-old Dwayne Eduh, fled the scene and was later found in South Carolina, where he remains hospitalized after a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Timeline of the Incident
The deadly events began around 1:30 a.m. on Friday, April 11, at the Walmart Supercenter on Salem Road in Covington. Authorities say Eduh, who had worked at the store, left the building briefly and returned with a firearm. He then walked directly to 21-year-old Khalaf Barksdale, another Walmart employee, and fatally shot him inside the store.
After fleeing the building, Eduh encountered 29-year-old Ryan Bradley, also an employee, in the parking lot. Bradley was shot and critically injured. He was quickly transported to a local hospital, where he remains in intensive care.
Eduh’s rampage continued as he drove to a nearby home on Emerson Trail, where 19-year-old Akeela Clarke lived. Authorities say he forcibly entered the home and shot Clarke multiple times in her bedroom. Her mother, Samantha Clarke, witnessed the terrifying scene.
“He shot through the bedroom door and just kept firing,” Samantha recalled tearfully. “There was nothing I could do. He knew her. They worked together. It was personal.”
Suspect Tracked Across State Lines
After the shootings, a manhunt for Eduh began. With the help of Flock Safety license plate recognition cameras, law enforcement tracked his vehicle to Aiken, South Carolina—about 150 miles from the original crime scene.
Officers surrounded Eduh at a location in Aiken. During a tense standoff, Eduh turned the gun on himself and sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition under police watch.
Authorities have yet to announce formal charges but confirm that Eduh will face multiple counts of murder and attempted murder once he recovers.
Victims Remembered
The tragedy has devastated the Walmart community and the families of the victims. Khalaf Barksdale was described by friends as a hardworking young man with a bright future, while Akeela Clarke was remembered as a joyful, caring soul who loved her job and her family.
“We’re just heartbroken,” said Clarke’s aunt. “She had so much life ahead of her.”
Ryan Bradley’s family has asked for privacy as they remain at his bedside, hoping for a full recovery.
Walmart and Community Response
Walmart issued a statement expressing grief and support:
“Our hearts are broken by this senseless violence. We are supporting the victims’ families and our associates during this incredibly difficult time. We are also cooperating fully with law enforcement in their ongoing investigation.”
The Covington Walmart remains temporarily closed as investigators process the scene and employees receive trauma support and counseling.
Covington Police Chief [Name] emphasized that this was not a random act of violence but rather a calculated, targeted attack.
“There was no ongoing threat to the public, but the loss is deeply felt. These were young people with entire lives ahead of them.”
Investigation Continues
Detectives are working to uncover a motive behind the attacks, noting that all three victims were known to the suspect. While a workplace dispute has not been ruled out, the investigation is still in its early stages.
Anyone with additional information about Eduh or the events leading up to the shooting is urged to contact the Covington Police Department.
A Community in Mourning
The Covington community is now left grieving, coming together to honor the lives lost and support those left behind. Vigils are already being planned in memory of Barksdale and Clarke, while prayers continue for Ryan Bradley’s recovery.
This tragedy marks yet another painful reminder of how quickly violence can strike, even in the most familiar places. As the investigation continues, one thing is clear: Covington will not forget the names or the lives of the young people lost far too soon.
