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A Georgia State Judge was found dead in his courtroom on Tuesday morning in what authorities are investigating as a suicide.
The Authorities discovered Judge Stephen Yekel, 74, at the Effingham County Courthouse on Tuesday morning. Investigators believe he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound late Monday night or early Tuesday.
According to the Daily Mail, the incident is under investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI).
His death coincided with what would have been his final day serving on the bench. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has launched a probe into the incident, and the courtroom remains closed until January as reported by Daily Mail.
Yekel, appointed to the court in 2022, had tried to resign following his election defeat but was denied by Governor Brian Kemp. In a letter to Kemp, Yekel criticized the low voter turnout that decided the election and expressed frustration that such a critical role had been decided by only 6% of eligible voters. Kemp rejected the resignation, citing respect for the election’s outcome.
Beyond his recent professional setbacks, Yekel faced several personal and legal issues. A lawsuit filed by former court employee Lisa Crawford accused him of wrongful termination, claiming she was fired to make room for his own staff. Crawford was seeking $10,000 in damages, alleging that Yekel had falsely implicated her in a scheme to manipulate DUI cases.
Additionally, Yekel’s ex-wife, Lisa Yekel, had publicly addressed rumors surrounding their divorce and financial difficulties. She stated on social media that their divorce was not due to infidelity and explained that financial losses from a failed daycare business had placed significant strain on their family.
Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie stated that Yekel was found around 10 a.m. on Tuesday. The sheriff noted that the incident occurred in the courthouse after hours, and an investigation is ongoing.
Governor Kemp’s office released a statement extending condolences to Yekel’s family, while local officials acknowledged the tragedy. “The Effingham County Board of Commissioners and staff are deeply saddened by the death of Judge Yekel and extend their sympathies to his family,” a statement read.
