Georgia Judge Found Dead in Courtroom; Suspected Suicide on Final Day in Office

In a somber turn of events, Georgia State Court Judge Stephen Yekel was discovered deceased in his courtroom in Effingham County on what was supposed to be his last day on the bench. The incident took place early Tuesday morning, December 31, 2024, when the court was not in session.

Judge Yekel, aged 74, is believed to have died by suicide, with authorities indicating a self-inflicted gunshot wound as the cause of death. The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. An autopsy has been scheduled to confirm the cause of death officially.

Yekel had served as a judge for two years but lost his bid for re-election earlier in the year. His term was set to end on December 31, 2024. Notably, before his death, Yekel had attempted to resign from his position, but this resignation was not accepted by Governor Brian Kemp. A note was sent to the Governor’s office, though its contents have not been disclosed to the public.

The Effingham County Board of Commissioners expressed their deep sorrow over the tragedy, issuing a statement of condolence to Yekel’s family and loved ones. The courthouse was closed following the discovery of Yekel’s body, with plans to resume normal operations on January 2, 2025.

This incident has sparked discussions about the pressures faced by those in public office, the mental health support available to them, and the security protocols within courthouses. It also raises questions about the implications of political and personal defeats on mental well-being, especially in high-stress positions like that of a judge.

For those affected by or concerned with this tragedy, mental health resources are available. In the U.S., individuals can reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org for online chat support.