Funeral plans are now in place for Elajia Johnae Whitley, the 21-year-old woman shot and killed by her ex-boyfriend in a Duluth shopping center parking lot on October 31, 2025. The tragic event led to a high-speed police chase in Columbia County, where the suspect took his own life, leaving a community in mourning and raising awareness about domestic violence.
Funeral Arrangements and Viewing Details
Family members have shared details for Elajia Whitley’s funeral service, set for Friday, November 21, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Gregory B. Levett and Sons Funeral Home in Conyers, Georgia. A public viewing will take place the day before, on Thursday, November 20, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the same location.
This gathering allows friends, family, and community members to pay their respects to Whitley, who was remembered for her bright smile and kind heart. Her mother described her as having “the heart of a rainbow” in a heartfelt statement, thanking supporters for their love during this difficult time.
Organizers expect a large turnout, as Whitley’s story has touched many lives across Georgia. The service aims to celebrate her life while providing closure for those grieving.
The Deadly Shooting in Duluth
Elajia Whitley had just finished her shift at a blood donation center in Duluth when the attack happened. Authorities say her ex-boyfriend, 23-year-old Caprice Hudson, approached her in the parking lot on Pleasant Hill Road and shot her multiple times.
The incident unfolded around 4 p.m. on October 31, 2025, in a busy shopping area, shocking witnesses and shoppers nearby. Police quickly identified it as a domestic violence case, with Hudson fleeing the scene right after.
Whitley’s family spoke about her vibrant personality. Her aunt, Rhoda Alexander, said Elajia was full of beauty and love, but the suspect failed to see that, possibly out of jealousy.
BioLife, her employer, released a statement expressing deep sadness and offering condolences to everyone affected. The company confirmed she was a dedicated worker at their Duluth location.
High-Speed Chase and Suspect’s Suicide
Hours after the shooting, Columbia County deputies spotted Hudson driving on Interstate 20. They learned he was wanted for the Duluth homicide and started a pursuit.
The chase ended when deputies performed a PIT maneuver, causing Hudson’s car to spin out and crash into a ditch. Before officers could approach, Hudson shot himself, according to the sheriff’s office report.
This outcome prevented a trial but left unanswered questions for Whitley’s loved ones. Investigators noted no other suspects were involved, closing the case as a homicide-suicide.
Recent data from the Georgia Commission on Family Violence shows domestic incidents like this have risen by 15 percent in the state over the past year, highlighting a growing crisis.
| Key Incident Timeline | Date and Time | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Shooting Occurs | October 31, 2025, around 4 p.m. | Elajia Whitley shot in Duluth parking lot by ex-boyfriend Caprice Hudson. |
| Suspect Flees | October 31, 2025, evening | Hudson drives away, heading toward Columbia County. |
| Police Chase Begins | October 31, 2025, night | Deputies spot Hudson on I-20 and pursue. |
| Chase Ends | October 31, 2025, late night | PIT maneuver leads to crash; Hudson dies by suicide. |
| Funeral Announced | November 9, 2025 | Family shares service details for November 21. |
Family Mourning and Community Support
Whitley’s family held a balloon release on November 2, 2025, to honor her memory, drawing dozens of supporters. They described her as a rising young woman with big dreams, cut short by violence.
Her mother expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love, especially toward her other children and grandchild. Community members have rallied, sharing stories of Whitley’s warmth and kindness.
- Ways the community has shown support: Donations to a family fund for funeral costs, social media tributes highlighting her smile, and local vigils raising awareness about domestic abuse.
- Calls for action: Advocates urge better resources for victims, including hotlines and shelters, to prevent similar tragedies.
This response echoes broader trends, as the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that one in four women face severe partner violence in their lifetime. In Georgia, recent events like a double murder in Richmond County underscore the urgency.
Broader Impact and Prevention Efforts
The tragedy has sparked discussions on domestic violence prevention in Georgia. Experts point to warning signs like controlling behavior and isolation, which often precede such attacks.
Local organizations are stepping up with programs, including counseling and legal aid for at-risk individuals. Whitley’s case joins others in 2025, where quick police action saved potential further harm but could not prevent the initial loss.
Communities are pushing for stricter laws, with some proposing enhanced tracking for known abusers. This incident reminds everyone to report suspicions early.
As we reflect on Elajia Whitley’s life, share this story to raise awareness and comment below with your thoughts on combating domestic violence.
