A clerk at a Race Trac convenience store on Macon Highway south of Athens was shot and killed early Friday morning, losing his life in what appears to have been a robbery attempt. The Oconee County Sherriff’s Office confirmed the victim as 23-year-old Elijah Wood of Oconee County. Wood was about to celebrate his 24th birthday on March 26th. His family has arranged a GoFundMe to cover memorial expenses.
From the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office...
On 3/19/2021 at approximately 1:40 AM, we responded to a person shot call at the RaceTrac located at 7921 Macon Highway. The call originated from a patron who discovered the victim. Deputies arrived at 1:42 AM and began administering CPR on the victim but were unable to revive him. Medical personnel arrived shortly thereafter and determined that the victim was deceased.
The victim is 23-year-old Elijah Wood of Oconee County. He was employed as a clerk with RaceTrac.
The suspect was dressed in all black clothing and armed with a hand gun. The suspect is still at large and considered armed and dangerous.
This case is still under investigation. If you have any information please contact the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office at (706) 769-3945.
This is a tough day for us. We know Elijah and his family well, in a good way. We didn’t have to look up his father’s address because we already knew where he lives. The family has numerous friends here. We urge anyone with information about this incident to contact us.
A picture of a white male posted earlier to the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page is of a potential witness. That person is not a suspect. It is imperative that we speak with that individual.
Anyone with information on this incident is encouraged to contact Investigator Eaton at zeaton@oconeesheriff.org or 706-769-3945.
From Ese Esan, a GoFundMe Spokesperson...
Elijah James Wood was killed today at RaceTrac in Watkinsville just days before he and his twin sister were set to turn 24.
”Elijah was 23 and about to celebrate his 24th birthday on the 26th of this month,” wrote brother-in-law James Lemmonds. “He was a big family man and believed in family and always making special effort’s to be a part of the family. He loved his God and his country and was always willing to help anyone he felt was in need. He would go out of his way to check on you. He will be truly missed and always loved. This world has lost a treasure.” Funds are scheduled to go to Elijah’s twin sister Mary Wood for memorial expenses.
To view the GoFundMe, please visit: https://gf.me/v/c/8px7/22xj9h3m80