WYNCOTE, Pa. – Latosha Ann Cooper, a longtime employee at the Walmart in Wyncote, was shot and killed in the store’s parking lot after finishing her work day Wednesday night, according to the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office and Cheltenham Police. Cooper’s family and the local community are mourning her loss as the investigation continues.
What we know:
Investigators say Cooper had just finished her shift and was by her car around 11:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Walmart parking lot when a masked suspect shot her. The store was closed Thursday, with yellow tape blocking entrances and guards turning shoppers away. Cooper’s daughter said she was a manager at the store and had worked there for more than 20 years, adding that her mother was a sweetheart and treated everyone nicely, so she doesn’t know why anyone would do this to her.
Stephanie Ross of Ogontz shared, “My condolences to all of her family. I think it is just tragic. It’s tragic.”
Workers at nearby businesses expressed concern about their own safety. Rachael Riley, who works at Juici Patties, said, “Scared, like I work here. I live up the street. That’s crazy.” David Atkinson, an assistant manager of Juici Patties, added, “I mean, we work till 10 o’clock here so we’re out here too at night.” Riley also said, “I’m definitely going to keep my head on a swivel be more cautious, especially being around here getting off work so late at night.”
What they’re saying:
A Walmart spokesperson told FOX 29, “We’re heartbroken by what occurred outside our Wyncote, PA, store last night. We will continue to work with law enforcement throughout the investigation.” The spokesperson added the company is focused on supporting workers and providing mental health resources onsite.
According to her family, Cooper’s birthday was just a few days ago on October 19.
She leaves behind three children and three grandchildren.
Stephanie Ross urged others to be aware, saying, “I just hope more people are just vigilant and keeping their eyes out, and when you see things that don’t look right, report it.”
What’s next:
The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office is asking anyone with information to contact their detectives at 610-278-3368 or Cheltenham Police at 215-885-1600 ext. 499.
What we don’t know:
Authorities have not announced any arrests or released details about the suspect’s identity or motive.
The Source: This article contains information from the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, Cheltenham Police Department, a Walmart spokesperson, interviews with community members and Cooper’s family and reporting by FOX 29’s Jennifer Lee.
