Man kills Walmart worker in Conway, thinking she was a demon

Zeddrick Ross, 37, told police he realized his victim wasn't a demon after the attack.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 7:50pm

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An extreme close-up of a machete blade reflecting a harsh, direct flash of light against a pitch-black background, conveying the stark, gritty nature of this violent crime.A chilling close-up of the weapon used in a tragic act of violence, exposing the grim reality of mental health crises in the community.Conway Today

A 37-year-old man named Zeddrick Ross entered a Walmart in Conway, Arkansas and fatally stabbed an employee named Jordanne Drinkwater, 32, because he believed she was a demon. Ross told police that after he attacked Drinkwater, he realized she did not actually look like the demon he was trying to kill.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the need for better mental health resources and support in the community. Ross's mother stated that her son has struggled with severe mental health issues for years and should have been institutionalized, suggesting gaps in the mental healthcare system that may have contributed to this senseless act of violence.

The details

According to the report, Ross entered the Walmart on March 31 with a machete and stabbed Drinkwater in the neck and shoulder area while she was working her shift. After the attack, Ross told police that he realized Drinkwater was not actually the demon he was trying to kill.

  • The incident occurred on March 31, 2026 at a Walmart in Conway, Arkansas.

The players

Zeddrick Ross

A 37-year-old man who fatally stabbed a Walmart employee, believing she was a demon.

Jordanne Drinkwater

A 32-year-old Walmart employee who was killed by Ross during his attack.

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What they’re saying

“He needs more than medication. He needs to be in a mental institution. Had he been institutionalized since 2019, none of this would have happened.”

— Zeddrick Ross's mother

What’s next

Zeddrick Ross is currently in police custody and will likely face charges for the murder of Jordanne Drinkwater. His mother has called for him to be institutionalized, highlighting the need for improved mental health resources in the community.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of accessible and comprehensive mental health care. Without proper support and treatment, individuals struggling with severe mental health issues can pose a danger to themselves and others. Addressing gaps in the mental healthcare system is crucial to preventing such senseless acts of violence in the future.