Joel Austin Whitus, Father of Four, Killed in Elmore County Gas Station Shooting — Suspect Aaron Mays Arrested

 The Elmore County, Alabama, community is reeling after a tragic shooting at a Marathon gas station in Slapout that claimed the life of 42-year-old Aaron Mays, a father of four. According to Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred late Friday at the station locally known as "The Girl’s Store" on Highway 111. Authorities say the deadly altercation began over a dispute involving the alleged touching of a vehicle, escalating in a confrontation that ended with Mays being fatally shot.

According to Sheriff Bill Franklin, the suspect, 23-year-old Joel Austin Whitus of Millbrook, had been sitting in a car with friends when Mays confronted him about allegedly touching his vehicle. Witnesses reported that during the argument, Mays noticed a handgun in Whitus’ waistband, felt threatened, and fired at him. Whitus and his companions briefly fled the scene but returned shortly after, at which point Whitus was taken into custody.

Mays was pronounced dead at the scene despite immediate efforts by bystanders to aid him. His body was sent to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for autopsy. Family members described Mays as a bright, humorous individual who loved making others laugh, and expressed heartbreak over informing his daughters of his death. His loss has left a profound void in the lives of his loved ones and the wider Slapout community.

Authorities charged Whitus with murder, and he is currently held without bond at the Elmore County Jail. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from the gas station to reconstruct the events leading up to the fatal shooting. Law enforcement emphasized that the case remains active and urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the investigation.

The shooting has sent shockwaves through the small Elmore County community, with neighbors and friends expressing grief and disbelief. Many highlighted Mays’ role as a devoted father and community member, emphasizing his generosity, humor, and the strong bonds he shared with his family. Community members have come together to support his grieving family during this devastating time.

As the legal process moves forward, the investigation will continue to examine all aspects of the confrontation, including witness accounts, surveillance evidence, and other forensic data. Aaron Mays’ death serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly disputes can escalate and the tragic consequences of gun violence, leaving a lasting impact on his family, friends, and the Elmore County community.