On May 28, 2023, at approximately 3:15 p.m., Goldsboro Police Department officers responded to reports of an armed robbery and shooting at the Family Dollar store located at 1403 Wayne Memorial Drive in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Upon arrival, officers found 46-year-old Alexander Thomas, an employee of the store, behind the register with a gunshot wound to his chest. Thomas was transported to UNC Health Wayne, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Witnesses indicated that two men entered the store, shot Thomas during the robbery, and then fled on foot. A prompt search of the surrounding area led to the apprehension of 20-year-old Yiheim Quishown Fryar and 24-year-old Aaron Taiwan Coppedge, who were found a short distance from the scene. Both individuals were arrested and charged with one count of armed robbery and an open count of murder. They are being held at the Wayne County Detention Center without bond.
Alexander Thomas was a U.S. Air Force veteran who had served his country for 12 years, including several deployments. After his military service, he became a store manager at Family Dollar, where he was known for his strong work ethic and positive demeanor. His girlfriend, Terra Althoff, described him as "the strongest person that I know" and someone with a "magnetic personality." Thomas is survived by his son and his father, who is a reverend.
The tragic death of Alexander Thomas has deeply affected the Goldsboro community, prompting discussions about safety measures for retail workers and the impact of violent crime on local businesses. Family, friends, and community members have expressed their grief and are seeking justice for Thomas. The case remains under investigation by the Goldsboro Police Department, which continues to gather information to ensure a thorough prosecution of the suspects involved.
