PERRY, Fla. — A wave of grief and shock has swept through the close-knit community of Perry following a senseless act of violence that claimed the life of a local resident. Austin Shane Wilkinson has been identified as the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred at a popular local convenience store, leaving family and friends devastated.

The incident, which took place at Choo Choos Convenience Store, has launched an urgent manhunt by the Perry Police Department. Authorities have identified 48-year-old Ulysses Woodfaulk Jr. as the suspect responsible for the slaying. Woodfaulk remains at large, and police warn that he is considered armed and dangerous.

As the investigation continues, the focus for the residents of Perry has turned to supporting the Wilkinson family, who are now navigating the unimaginable pain of losing a loved one to sudden gun violence.

The Incident: Violence at Choo Choos

The tragedy unfolded at Choo Choos Convenience Store, a local establishment familiar to many in the area. According to the Perry Police Department, officers responded to reports of a shooting at the location. upon arrival, they discovered Austin Shane Wilkinson suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of first responders, the injuries proved fatal, and Austin’s life was cut short in an instant.

The Suspect Flees: Witnesses and investigators state that the suspect, identified as Ulysses Woodfaulk Jr., fled the scene on foot immediately following the shooting. The brazen nature of the crime—occurring in a public space—has shaken the sense of safety in the small Florida community.

The Manhunt: Ulysses Woodfaulk Jr. Wanted

The Perry Police Department has issued an urgent BOLO (Be On the Lookout) for Ulysses Woodfaulk Jr., 48.

• Charges: Warrants have been issued for Woodfaulk on serious charges, including First-Degree Murder While Armed and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

• Status: Woodfaulk remains at large. Police are urging the public not to approach him if seen, but to contact law enforcement immediately. The addition of the “convicted felon” charge indicates a criminal history, raising concerns about the danger he poses to the public while evading capture.

Obituary: Remembering Austin Shane Wilkinson

Beyond the crime scene tape and the police bulletins lies the true tragedy: the loss of Austin Shane Wilkinson. “A Life Taken Too Soon”: Austin is remembered by those who knew him as a beloved member of the community.

• Community Grief: In a town the size of Perry, losses like this are felt by everyone. “His passing serves as a painful reminder of the impact of violence on a close-knit community,” the report notes.

• Devastation: Friends and family are grappling with the senselessness of the act. Austin went to a convenience store—a mundane, everyday activity—and never returned home. The void left by his absence is described as “profound.”

Community Response: Solidarity in Sorrow

As news of the shooting spread, the residents of Perry began to rally around the Wilkinson family.

• Support: Prayer circles, online tributes, and offers of support are pouring in. The community is united in grief, determined to ensure that Austin is remembered for his life, not just the tragic way it ended.

• Justice: Alongside the grief is a collective call for justice. Residents are hopeful for a swift arrest of Ulysses Woodfaulk Jr. to bring a measure of closure to the grieving family.

Conclusion

Austin Shane Wilkinson was a part of the fabric of Perry, Florida. His life was stolen in a moment of violence, but his memory will endure in the hearts of those who loved him. As the manhunt continues, the community stands guard, waiting for justice and mourning a friend.

We extend our deepest, most profound condolences to the family and loved ones of Austin Shane Wilkinson.

Rest in Peace, Austin.

WANTED SUSPECT INFORMATION:

• Name: Ulysses Woodfaulk Jr.

• Age: 48.

• Charges: First-Degree Murder, Firearm Possession.

• Status: At Large / Armed and Dangerous.

• Contact: If you have information regarding the whereabouts of Ulysses Woodfaulk Jr., please contact the Perry Police Department or call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to apprehend him yourself.