On Christmas Eve of 2018, a tragedy unfolded inside a Piggly Wiggly in north Birmingham, Alabama, ending the life of 28-year-old Jerika Vonshaye Manuel. Manuel was an employee at the grocery store where she was shot and killed. The incident prompted a search for a former co-worker who was considered a suspect in the fatal shooting.
Following the investigation into Manuel's death, a woman was taken into custody and subsequently pleaded guilty to the Christmas Eve killing.
This plea brought a legal conclusion to the case, holding the individual responsible for Manuel's untimely death.
Jerika Manuel, born on January 14, 1990, was remembered by those who knew her. A celebration of her life was held on January 5, 2019, at the Metropolitan AME Zion Church, followed by her burial at Elmwood Cemetery. Those who knew her from her work at Piggly Wiggly recalled her beautiful smile and respectful nature, noting her love for her children.
