GA Family Dead: Stepson Kills Sheriff’s Deputy, Wife And Daughter Then Himself


Four people were found dead in what seems to have been a murder-suicide at a home in Paulding County, Georgia. According to WSBTV, a Paulding County sheriff’s deputy, Sam Driskell, 52, his wife, Muachin Driskell, 36, and their 12-year-old daughter, Carolyn, were found dead inside their home on Ridge Road.

The fourth body found inside the home was that of Deputy Sam Driskell’s 21-year-old stepson, Felix Almonte.

CNN reports that Deputy Driskell, his wife, and young daughter were killed by the stepson during their sleep by a single gunshot wound to their heads. The stepson then turned the gun on himself, committing suicide.

Special Agent in charge Greg Ramey, with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, told WSBTV the following.

“It appears that it was a murder-suicide based on what our forensic evidence is.”

Paulding County Sheriff Gary Gulledge is shocked and deeply saddened, as reported by Fox 13.

“There’s no rhyme or reason for it. All of my guys are heartbroken. We’ve lost one of the best guys we’ve ever had.”

Sheriff Gulledge continues to say that there was no note found at the scene of the crime, and no history of domestic violence in the home. As they continue to investigate, they have only come to one conclusion at this point.

“What we initially believe is they have had some issues with the stepson. I don’t know how far they go. We’re trying to dig into that right now.”

Deputy Driskell is a 20 year military veteran who met his wife while he was in the Dominican Republic. A corporal, Driskell had worked for the Paulding Sheriff’s Office for more than ten years as a detective in charge of the sex offenders registry. CNN reports that Driskell had been recognized for his great work by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation for fighting sex crimes against children.

As a dedicated officer, Sheriff Gulledge said Driskell was always the first one on the job and stayed late everyday. That is why it was extremely unusual when Driskell failed to show up Tuesday for a court appearance, prompting officers to go to his home to check on his welfare. That is when Driskell and his family were found dead.

As police surrounded the home as the investigation continued to unfold, neighbors and friends were anxious to get the details. Haley Smallwood, a relative of the family, was horrified by the news as she recalled the moment she heard what happened to Fox 13.

“My grandpa called to let us know to stay in the house, lock the doors. They told us everything they knew, about, you know, they were dead and they were found in their house. That’s it. They just told us to be careful.”

[Photo Credit: WTOC.com]

Share this article: GA Family Dead: Stepson Kills Sheriff’s Deputy, Wife And Daughter Then Himself
More from Inquisitr