On his final day on the bench, a Georgia judge was discovered dead in the courtroom.

State Court Judge Stephen Yekel was discovered by Effingham County Sheriff's deputies, according to a release.

This narrative explores the topic of suicide. In case you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, kindly contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

A Georgia state judge was discovered dead in a courtroom on Tuesday, prompting an investigation by the police.

On Tuesday morning, State Court Judge Stephen Yekel, 74, was discovered by Effingham County Sheriff's deputies.

The sheriff's office stated that he apparently died by suicide, with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Effingham County Sheriff’s deputies said in a release that they found State Court Judge Stephen Yekel, 74. (State Court Judge Stephen Yekel via Facebook)

The Effingham County Sheriff's Office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation are investigating his death, with the latter performing the autopsy.

Authorities said Yekel died sometime late Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

Earlier this year, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp appointed Yekel to the bench two years ago, but he lost his election bid.

His term was scheduled to end Dec. 31, 2024.

The Effingham County Courthouse — Judge Stephen Yekel, 74, was found dead, with suspected self-inflicted gunshot wounds, at the Effingham County Courthouse in Springfield, Georgia. (Google Maps)

The Effingham County Board of Commissioners expressed their "deep sadness" over Yekel's passing.

The Effingham County Board of Commissioners and staff expressed their deep sadness over the tragic death of Judge Steve Yekel at the Effingham County Courthouse today and offered their condolences to his family and loved ones.

The Effingham County Board of Commissioners has been contacted by Planet Chronicle Digital for comment.

by Sarah Rumpf-Whitten 1/1/2025, 1:36:59 AM

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