Walmart employee fatally shoots ex-girlfriend, himself at Hiram store

Police are investigating a tragic incident that occurred at a Walmart in Hiram on Wednesday night as a murder-suicide. 

The victims, 20-year-old Zoey Messenger and 26-year-old James Norton, both lost their lives in the incident. According to Hiram Police Chief Mike Turner, the two individuals had previously been in a relationship that had come to an end.

The incident unfolded when the male, Norton, approached the female, Messenger, and engaged in what appeared to be a brief and non-confrontational conversation. Tragically, the male then drew a handgun and shot the female before turning the weapon on himself.

The shooting, which occurred shortly before 7:30 p.m., caused panic within the store. Responding police officers swiftly entered the building as customers and employees evacuated. Messenger and Norton were discovered lying between two aisles, near a single handgun, which was recovered by a senior officer at the scene.

First responders provided immediate aid to both victims before transporting them to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital. Despite the store being full of shoppers and employees, no eyewitnesses to the shooting have been located thus far.

Chief Turner noted that there were no prior records of domestic violence calls or threats involving either individual. He expressed condolences on behalf of the Hiram Police Department to the families of both victims.

Walmart released a statement expressing their deep sadness over the incident and prioritizing the safety of their associates and customers. The Hiram store will remain closed during the ongoing investigation in cooperation with law enforcement.