Georgia Man Sentenced to Life After Chasing and Shooting Wife to Death as She Prepared to Open New Barbershop
DOUGLASVILLE, GEORGIA — A Georgia man will spend the rest of his life in prison after pleading guilty to chasing down and fatally shooting his wife just as she was preparing to open a newly renovated barbershop — a business she had spent years building.
Husband Pleads Guilty to Murder and Multiple Felonies
Volanta Lejuan Walker, 51, pleaded guilty to malice murder in the October killing of his wife, 56-year-old Sabrina Walker, according to the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office.
He also pleaded guilty to:
- Two counts of aggravated assault against a peace officer
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony
Judge Deah Warren sentenced Walker to life in prison plus 25 years.
Fatal Shooting Followed Domestic Argument
According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the couple began arguing inside their home on Littlebrook Way on the night of October 4.
During the argument, Sabrina Walker ran outside, attempting to escape. Authorities said her husband chased her down and shot her, killing her in the yard.
Douglasville police responded around 9:30 p.m. and found Sabrina Walker lying on the ground.
Gunman Confronted Police While Still Armed
Investigators said Walker remained armed when officers arrived and refused commands to drop the weapon.
Police reported that Walker pointed the gun at responding officers, prompting an officer to fire his weapon, striking Walker.
Paramedics transported Walker to the hospital for treatment. Sabrina Walker was pronounced dead at the scene.
Killing Occurred on Eve of Birthday and Business Opening
Sabrina Walker was scheduled to celebrate her 57th birthday on October 5, just one day after her death.
She was also set to open her newly remodeled barbershop, Groomsmen Atlanta, a business she had owned and operated since 2009.
Despite the tragedy, her family moved forward with the grand opening to honor her life and legacy.
Family Honors Her Legacy Through Business
Sabrina Walker’s daughters spoke emotionally about their mother’s dedication to her work and community.
“It feels like somebody is missing,” daughter Anesha Nixon said.
“It really feels like her presence needs to be here — her being bubbly, her running around talking to people. It doesn’t feel right.”
Her other daughter, Michaella Barnswell, said continuing the business was exactly what her mother would have wanted.
“My mama put her blood, sweat and tears into this business,” she said.
“And we’re going to outlive her legacy.”
Prosecutor Condemns Domestic Violence
Douglas County District Attorney Dalia Racine emphasized the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of taking threats seriously.
“Too often as a society we are dismissive of the impact of domestic violence,” Racine said.
“Domestic violence calls are some of the most dangerous calls law enforcement encounter.”
She added:
“We lost a precious life when she decided to leave her abuser. However, he will never be able to take away her impact to her family and our community.”
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