DAHLONEGA, Ga. — After more than two decades of relentless investigative work, the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office has announced that it has officially solved the 2001 homicide of Herman Wilder.
Sheriff Stacy Jarrard confirmed in a Nov. 6 press release that Carroll Dean Burrell of Rabun County — now deceased — was responsible for Wilder’s death on May 25, 2001, at the Golden Hills Apartments in Dahlonega.
Investigators originally collected critical evidence at the scene, including a wooden stake believed to be the murder weapon. Although early DNA tests failed to identify a suspect, the case was reopened in 2023. Using advanced forensic techniques and working closely with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and other agencies, investigators were able to achieve a breakthrough.
“This case represents over two decades of determination and teamwork,” said Sheriff Jarrard. “Through modern forensic science and the dedication of our investigators, we have finally identified the person responsible and can provide closure to the Wilder family.”
According to the sheriff’s office, new DNA evaluations and voluntary samples from investigative leads conclusively linked Burrell to the evidence recovered from the crime scene. Burrell, who was 41 at the time of the murder, reportedly had a documented history of mental health challenges and episodes of delusional or violent behavior.
With Burrell now deceased, the case will be “exceptionally cleared” under Georgia law following consultation with the district attorney.
Sheriff Jarrard thanked the GBI and all partner agencies for their assistance, crediting both collaboration and advances in forensic science for solving one of Lumpkin County’s longest-running unsolved cases.
This article has been updated for clarity
