ATHENS, GA – Ahkil Nasir Crumpton, also known as “Crump,” a 26-year-old from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison today, following his conviction on charges stemming from a deadly shooting in Oconee County, Georgia. U.S. District Judge Tilman “Tripp” Self, III, handed down the statutory maximum sentence of 240 months for interference with commerce by attempted robbery and an additional 120 months for making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm, totaling 360 months. Following his prison term, Crumpton will be under supervised release for three years. He is ineligible for parole.
This sentencing is the culmination of a thorough investigation into the murder of Elijah Wood in Oconee County. U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary highlighted the collective effort of local, state, and federal agencies in seeking justice for Wood, expressing hope that the federal case’s conclusion might provide some solace to those affected by the tragedy.
The tragic event unfolded on March 19, 2021, at a RaceTrac gas station in Watkinsville, Georgia, where Crumpton, donned in dark clothing and football gloves, fatally shot Wood, the store clerk. The incident, captured on surveillance footage, occurred while Wood’s girlfriend was on a FaceTime call with him. Crumpton fled the scene without robbing the store. A subsequent encounter in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, involving Crumpton led to another fatal shooting, further implicating him in violent crimes.
FBI and ATF agents arrested Crumpton in Philadelphia on March 16, 2022, following a dramatic escape attempt. Evidence, including the firearm used in both shootings and clothing worn during the incidents, was found in Crumpton’s possession. The firearm’s ballistics were matched to both crime scenes through ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).
Before the incidents, Crumpton was a member of the University of Georgia’s football team and lived close to the RaceTrac. Testimonies revealed Crumpton’s immediate remorse after the shooting but also his failure to prevent the tragic outcome.
James North Armstrong, a co-defendant, admitted to purchasing the firearm used in the shootings for Crumpton, making a false statement during the purchase. Armstrong’s sentencing is scheduled for March 20, highlighting the broad legal repercussions stemming from these tragic events.