Dollar General Store Manager Shot During Argument Over $1.58 Purchase

A Dollar General store manager, Alexis Hill, was fatally shot following an argument involving the purchase of hamburger buns at a store in Columbus, Georgia.

According to authorities, the incident occurred on Tuesday morning at a Dollar General location on Victory Drive.

Reports indicate that a customer, identified as 33-year-old Jerome Willis, was purchasing hamburger buns priced at $1.58 when an altercation occurred at the checkout counter.

Investigators said Willis handed over two crumpled $1 bills as payment. As Alexis attempted to straighten the cash, Willis reportedly stepped away, pulled out a firearm, and shot her.

The Muscogee County Coroner’s Office said the shooting occurred at approximately 10:00 a.m. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but Alexis was pronounced dead at around 10:45 a.m.

Following the shooting, Willis fled the area, prompting a police search.

According to a statement from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), officers later located Willis in a parking lot and issued verbal commands for him to surrender. Authorities said he refused to comply.

Police then deployed a K-9 unit in an attempt to apprehend him. Investigators stated that Willis opened fire on the police dog and pointed his weapon at officers.

Officers returned fire, striking Willis multiple times. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The GBI said both a police officer and the K-9 sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the confrontation.

Family members of Willis later stated that he and Alexis did not know each other prior to the incident.

In a statement, Dollar General expressed condolences over the tragedy.

“We are deeply saddened over the tragic loss of our Columbus store manager Alexis Hill. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with our employee’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

The company added:

“We have been in direct contact with the family to offer support and condolences. Currently, the store remains closed, and grief counselors will be available for area employees.”

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.