Murder trial for ex-UGA football player who killed RaceTrac clerk set for this summer

Akhil Nasim Crumpton

By Joe Johnson

More than four years after he fatally shot a clerk during an armed robbery of a convenience store in Oconee County, Ahkil Crumpton will be standing trial on murder charges.

The 27-year-old former wide receiver for the University of Georgia last year was convicted on federal charges related to the March 18, 2021 slaying of Elijah Wood at the RaceTrac in Watkinsville.

Elijah Wood

After killing the 23-year-old clerk, Crumpton left the store empty handed.

Now he faces state murder charges in a trial set for this summer in Oconee County.

Following a three-day trial in U.S. District Court in Athens in March 2024, Crumpton was found guilty of interference with commerce by attempted robbery and making false statement during the purchase of a firearm.

He was given the maximum sentence of 30 years imprisonment.

Crumpton has since been housed at the Clarke County Jail in Athens as he awaits trial on state charges.

An Oconee County grand jury had indicted him for felony murder, aggravated assault, criminal attempt to commit armed robbery and possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

His trial is scheduled to begin July 14 in Superior Court in downtown Watkinsville.