On June 2, 2023, Tava Woodard sent her mother a humorous TikTok video before starting her midnight shift as a gas station clerk. Tragically, less than an hour later, the 23-year-old was murdered.
Two men allegedly entered the Roadrunner Market in Johnson City, Tennessee. Despite Woodard complying with their demands and handing over money from the register, she was still killed.
The community quickly mobilized, offering rewards and tips to law enforcement. A father and son were eventually arrested and charged with her murder.
That night, Woodard had already expressed unease at her job due to a shoplifting incident earlier in her shift. She texted friends and coworkers about feeling unsafe and wanting to find a new job. Her mother, Melissa Jones, revealed that the store’s panic button wasn’t functional, leaving Woodard without a way to call for help when the masked men entered and killed her.
Woodard, who had recently celebrated her 23rd birthday, was known for her love of reading and her aspiration to write novels. She had a close relationship with her family, including her younger brother Jace, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, and her sister Addie. She was also passionate about human rights and frequently voiced her opinions on social media.
The Johnson City Police Department has declined to comment on the active investigation, and details about the case remain sparse. The suspects, Mark Anthony Sexton, Jr., and his son, Mark Anthony Sexton III, face multiple charges, including first-degree murder and aggravated robbery.
Despite the arrests, there has been no update on when the case will go to court, leaving the community and Woodard’s family in a state of limbo over a year later.
A GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Woodard’s family, and the community has been planting flowers in her memory, honoring her wish to continue growing even after her death. Her funeral was held on June 10, 2023, and the support from friends, family, and strangers has been a source of comfort to her loved ones.
The lack of progress in bringing the case to court is concerning, and Woodard’s family continues to seek justice and closure.
Steve Holder 