Ishmael told police that during the search for Whitelaw, she had checked outside by a dumpster area where she smelled a “strong odor of bleach” and attempted to gain entry, but walked away after hearing a male voice say he was changing.
Johnson later told police that he was the person Ishmael had talked to by the dumpster and that he was trying to leave. He also admitted to being in the break room and told authorities that he fell in the blood, according to the affidavit.
Johnson was found by Colorado State Patrol Troopers walking along the interstate. He had scratches on his hands and face and claimed that he had been attacked at Walgreens. He was arrested soon after the troopers learned that he was a suspect in the incident, KKTV reported.
Johnson admitted to police that he previously had a “crush” on Whitelaw but claimed that was no longer the case as he was now involved with Ishmael. Police noted that Ishmael did not mention being in a relationship with Johnson during her interview. Despite video evidence, Johnson denied attempting to obstruct surveillance cameras.
Whitelaw, a straight-A student at Air Academy High School, was an art enthusiast with a passion for genetics research, according to her friends and family. She was someone filled with empathy, patience, and compassion who “allowed others to be seen, heard, or recognized,” her obituary said. She was “wise beyond her years” and would be equally at ease in a room full of adults having conversations or kicking back with her friends to make goofy videos.
“If you were having a bad day, she had the innate ability to lift you up. She was dedicated, persistent, and passionate about everything she endeavored to try,” the obituary said.
The teenager’s funeral will be held next week as the investigation into her murder is ongoing.
In a statement to BuzzFeed News, Fraser Engerman, a senior director for Walgreens, said that the company was “saddened” by the incident.
“The safety of our customers and team members is top priority, and we are working with local authorities in their investigation,” Engerman said. “We are making counseling and other resources available to our store team members at this location,” he added.
Article Appeared @https://news.yahoo.com/walgreens-employee-accused-killing-teenage-194707985.html