More details have been released about the discovery of a missing Habersham County man found dead in Stephens County on Saturday.
Tony Mooney, a 26-year-old father, had been missing for four days when his body was found in the woods off GA 365 in the area of Rock Road.
Deputies from the Stephens County Sheriff’s Office and Search and Rescue team launched a ground search for Mooney around 7:30 a.m. on Feb. 24. According to Chief Deputy Coroner Lee Woody, an hour and a half into the search, a K9 handler and his bloodhound found a piece of clothing. The dog stayed on the scent and, within thirty minutes, led deputies to Mooney’s body.
It was a devastating end for Mooney’s family, who clung to hope he would be found alive after he went missing on Feb. 21.
Initial indications are that Mooney’s death was accidental. Authorities say no foul play is suspected. The State Medical Examiner’s Office in Decatur will conduct an autopsy to determine his exact cause and manner of death.
In a press release, Habersham County Sheriff’s Investigator George Cason said drones were also used to search for Mooney. The GBI, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and White County SAR team assisted in the search.
Woody praised the K9 team led by Sgt. Michael Vice and his K9 Lady for bringing closure to the family, while also expressing sadness at the outcome. He said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Mooney’s family in this tragic time.”
