Douglasville, Georgia – A Georgia man has been sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to murdering his wife just hours before she was set to celebrate her birthday and open a newly renovated barbershop she had spent years building.
Volanta Lejuan Walker, 51, was sentenced to life in prison plus 25 years after admitting to the malice murder of his wife, Sabrina Walker, 56, in an October shooting that unfolded outside their Douglasville home, roughly 20 miles west of Atlanta. The sentence was handed down by Judge Deah Warren, according to the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office.
In addition to the murder charge, Walker pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated assault against a peace officer, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
Argument Turned Fatal Outside Family Home
Investigators with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said the shooting occurred on the night of October 4, following an argument between the couple inside their home on Littlebrook Way.
According to authorities, Sabrina Walker ran outside during the dispute, attempting to escape. Her husband chased her and shot her to death outside the residence.
Douglasville police officers arrived at the scene around 9:30 p.m. and found Sabrina Walker lying on the ground, unresponsive. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Walker remained armed when officers arrived. Police said they ordered him to drop his weapon, but he allegedly pointed the gun at responding officers, prompting one officer to shoot him. Walker was transported to a hospital for treatment and later taken into custody.
Prosecutors Highlight Domestic Violence Dangers
Douglas County District Attorney Dalia Racine emphasized the broader implications of the case, particularly the risks tied to domestic violence situations.
“Too often as a society we are dismissive of the impact of domestic violence on those victimized by it and their loved ones,” Racine said in a statement. “Domestic violence calls are some of the most dangerous calls law enforcement encounter.”
Racine noted that Sabrina Walker was killed after deciding to leave an abusive situation, adding that while her life was taken, her influence and legacy could not be erased.
“He will never be able to take away her impact to her family and our community,” Racine said. “We hope this swift resolution allows her family to move forward in their healing process.”
A Business Owner’s Dream Cut Short
Sabrina Walker was set to celebrate her 57th birthday on October 5, just one day after she was killed. She was also preparing for the grand reopening of her barbershop, Groomsmen Atlanta, a business she had owned since 2009.
Family members said she had recently completed a major renovation and expansion of the shop, pouring years of work and dedication into the business.
Despite the tragedy, her family chose to move forward with the grand opening as a tribute to her life and hard work.
Daughters Honor Their Mother’s Legacy
Sabrina Walker’s daughters spoke publicly about the loss and the decision to continue operating the barbershop in her honor.
“It feels like somebody is missing,” daughter Anesha Nixon said. “It really feels like her presence needs to be here — her being bubbly, her running around talking to people. It doesn’t feel right.”
Another daughter, Michaella Barnswell, said continuing the business was exactly what their mother would have wanted.
“My mama put her blood, sweat and tears into this business, and we’re going to outlive her legacy,” Barnswell said.
A Life Sentence and a Lasting Impact
With Walker now sentenced to spend the rest of his life behind bars, prosecutors say the case stands as a reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of taking warning signs seriously.
Sabrina Walker is remembered not only as a victim, but as a business owner, mother, and community member whose work and spirit continue through her family and the business she built.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available through local resources and national hotlines.
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