Atlanta/ Crime & Emergencies
AI Assisted Icon
Published on April 03, 2024
Fayetteville Walmart Shooting Suspect in Custody After Turning Himself In, Faces Murder ChargesSource: Google Street View

After the tragic shooting at a Fayetteville Walmart, the suspect, 19-year-old Adrian Jelks, has turned himself in to the authorities, confirmed by the Fayetteville Police Department. Jelks faces serious charges including murder and aggravated assault, stemming from the violent event on March 29 that left another 19-year-old, Antavius Holton, dead and a nine-year-old girl injured. "We appreciate the community’s patience as our department worked diligently to locate Jelks," said a statement from Fayetteville police, Fox 5 Atlanta reported.

The suspect surrendered to the College Park Police Department and then was transferred to the custody of Fayetteville police after 2 a.m. Wednesday. Jelks had been on the run for four days before his surrender. According to the same Atlanta News First report, the shooting occurred at the Fayette Pavilion shopping center's Walmart around 10 p.m., where it was said that Holton was critically injured and later succumbed to his injuries. The young girl, who also fell victim to the gunfire, is expected to make a full recovery and has been released from the hospital.

Also entangled in the case is 19-year-old Sandra Romero-Nunez, who was previously arrested and charged for her alleged involvement in the incident. Investigators believe Romero-Nunez played a part in the crimes Jelks is accused of. The Fayette County Jail is now holding her, as detailed in the police report.

While a clear motive has yet been disclosed, authorities have indicated that they do not believe the act to be random. "Although Jelks has been arrested, further details cannot be released, as the integrity of the investigation is of the utmost importance," police said in a statement obtained by Fox 5 Atlanta. Public reactions are watchful as the case progresses, where Jelks is likely to be formally charged with the grave counts against him.