Roy Love, a dedicated 60-year-old security guard, was tragically killed early Monday morning during an attempted robbery at M&M Food Mart in Jackson, Mississippi. Love was known for his unwavering commitment to his job and his community.
Tony Williams and Jackie Kitchens, neighbors of Love, praised his dedication. “He came to work every day,” Williams said. Kitchens echoed, “This man gets up every day and comes to work.”
The incident occurred at around 1:30 a.m. when three teenagers — two 17-year-olds and a 16-year-old — approached the store. Love confronted the teens and asked them to leave.
Instead, they allegedly tried to rob him. During the struggle, they reportedly took Love’s gun and used it to kill him.
Police Chief Joseph Wade described the surveillance footage as extremely disturbing. “They attacked him, took his weapon, and fired on him with [it],” he said. Chief Wade also noted that Love never drew his gun during the incident.
Jackson police acted quickly on a tip and found the suspects near the intersection of Woody and Monticello Drive, less than half a mile from the store. The teens have been charged with capital murder and are being held without bail. Due to their ages, their names have not been released.
Tony Williams expressed his disbelief at the loss of his friend. “I can’t believe it, man,” he said. “He was well known in the neighborhood, a neighborhood legend. … A great guy. It’s mind-blowing.” Williams added, “He will be missed.”
Jackie Kitchens remembered Love for his vigilance in protecting 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.”
The community is left mourning the loss of a man who was not only a dedicated security guard but also a protector and friend to many.
