In a tragic incident early Monday morning, beloved Mississippi security guard Roy Love was fatally shot during an attempted robbery by three teenagers. The 60-year-old was providing armed security at M&M Food Mart, a gas station and convenience store in Jackson, as he did every day. His dedication to his job was well-known among his neighbors.
“He came to work every day,” said Tony Williams, a neighbor. “This man gets up every day and comes to work,” added Jackie Kitchens, another neighbor.
At around 1:30 a.m., three teens — two 17-year-olds and a 16-year-old — approached the store. Sensing trouble, Love confronted them in the parking lot and asked them to leave. Instead of complying, the teens allegedly attempted to rob Love. During the altercation, they reportedly seized his gun and used it to shoot him.
Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade described the surveillance footage as difficult to watch. “They attacked him, took his weapon, and fired on him with [it],” he said at a press conference. Love never drew his weapon during the incident.
The suspects were located and arrested shortly after the shooting near the intersection of Woody and Monticello Drive, less than half a mile from the store. The three teens have been charged with capital murder and are being held without bail. Their names have not been released due to their ages.
Tony Williams expressed disbelief and sorrow over the loss of his friend. “He was well known in the neighborhood, a neighborhood legend. … A great guy. It’s mind-blowing,” he said. “He will be missed.”
Jackie Kitchens shared that Love always ensured the safety of the women in the neighborhood. “He sees us pull up out here. If it’s women, he’s going to come out here to make sure we’re in there safe and come back to our cars safe,” she said. “For them to try and take his little gun from him, that’s just sad.”