Dollar General Cashier Killed Over $1.58 Purchase Before Suspect Dies in Officer-Involved Shooting

COLUMBUS, Ga. — A Dollar General employee was fatally shot Tuesday morning during what investigators say began as a dispute involving a $1.58 purchase, setting off a chain of events that ended hours later with a suspect dead following an officer-involved shooting.

According to authorities, Columbus Police officers were initially called to a Dollar General store on Victory Drive after reports of a shooting shortly before 11 a.m.

Investigators said 44-year-old Alexis Hill was working as a cashier when a man entered the store to purchase a package of hamburger buns that totaled $1.58.

According to information released by the Muscogee County Coroner’s Office, the suspect handed Hill two crumpled one-dollar bills. As Hill was straightening the bills, the suspect stepped to his right and shot her.

Hill was pronounced dead at approximately 10:45 a.m.

Following the shooting, the suspect fled the area, prompting a large law enforcement response as officers searched for him.

The investigation ultimately led officers to the Baker Plaza Road area, where Columbus Police officers encountered the suspect shortly before 1 p.m.

At approximately 12:55 p.m., an officer-involved shooting occurred. During the confrontation, one Columbus Police officer and a department K-9 were injured.

The suspect was shot and killed during the incident.

Authorities said there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The injured officer was treated for injuries and is expected to make a full physical recovery. The injured police K-9 was transported to Auburn for specialized veterinary treatment. Officials said an update on the dog’s condition will be released when available.

As is standard procedure in Georgia officer-involved shootings, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been requested to conduct an independent investigation into the use of force incident. The Columbus Police Department’s Office of Professional Standards will also conduct an internal review.

Officials have not yet released the identity of the suspect.

The homicide investigation into the death of Alexis Hill and the officer-involved shooting investigation both remain active and ongoing.