NASH, Texas — Authorities continue investigating Tuesday morning’s deadly shooting at Texarkana Aluminum in Nash, Texas, as new details have emerged about the tragic incident that left two people dead and one woman seriously injured. The heartbreaking violence has shaken coworkers, families, and residents throughout the Texarkana area as the community struggles to process the devastating events.
Police say 48-year-old Eddie Ray Hill Jr. was fatally shot after reportedly attempting to intervene during a domestic dispute involving coworkers at the manufacturing plant. Loved ones and community members have since described Hill as a hero who stepped in while trying to protect others during the confrontation. His death has left many mourning a man remembered for courage and selflessness in a moment of chaos.
Investigators identified the suspected shooter as 40-year-old Wendell Lane Champion Jr. of Hope, Arkansas. Authorities say Champion allegedly shot his wife, Candis Jolene Champion, in the parking lot of the facility before taking his own life. Earlier reports indicated Candis Champion had died from her injuries, but family members have since confirmed that she survived the shooting and remains alive as she continues recovering.
The shooting unfolded in the parking lot of Texarkana Aluminum on Alumax Road and triggered a large law enforcement response Tuesday morning. Officers secured the area while investigators gathered evidence, interviewed witnesses, and worked to reconstruct the sequence of events that led to the deadly confrontation. Employees at the plant were left shocked as the workplace quickly became the center of a major crime scene investigation.
Authorities also confirmed that Wendell Lane Champion Jr. had previously been convicted in connection with the 2007 killing of a security guard during a robbery in Houston. Officials stated that he had recently been released on parole prior to Tuesday’s shooting. News of his criminal history has sparked strong reactions online, with many expressing frustration and raising questions about parole decisions involving violent offenders.
Texarkana Aluminum announced that it has established a crisis response team to assist employees and others affected by the tragedy while continuing to cooperate with Nash Police and other investigating agencies. As the investigation remains ongoing, community members continue offering prayers and support for Eddie Hill’s family, Candis Champion’s recovery, coworkers traumatized by the incident, and everyone impacted by the heartbreaking violence.
