The GBI is seeking information from the public about an ongoing death investigation in Lavonia. As Now Habersham previously reported, a man checking trail cameras on his property Monday discovered a badly decomposed body.
Franklin County Coroner Scott O’Barr confirmed the body is that of a male. It was located in a wooded area near the intersection of Robin Lane and David Avenue.
The Lavonia Police Department asked the GBI for help with the investigation.
“At this time, the person has not been identified, and agents are awaiting the cause and manner of death from the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office,” says GBI Public Affairs Director Nelly Miles.
Authorities are working to determine if the body is tied to a missing persons case out of White County. Cordell Barnes’ family members submitted dental records to investigators. They say they are staying in close contact with law enforcement about this latest development.
The 37-year-old Barnes is a land surveyor from White County. He was last seen at his home in Cleveland, Georgia, on July 19. A sheriff’s deputy later found his abandoned pickup truck in Hart County.
Miles says the death investigation is active and ongoing.
The GBI asks anyone with information about this case to contact the Lavonia Police Department at 706-356-4848 or the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Athens at 706-552-2309.
You may submit anonymous tips by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
