Georgia Judge Found Dead in Courthouse on Final Day of Service
SPRINGFIELD, GA — State Court Judge Stephen Yekel, 74, was found dead in an Effingham County courtroom on what was to have been his final day in office, authorities confirmed Tuesday.
Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a possible suicide at the courthouse at approximately 10:20 a.m. on Tuesday. Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie stated that Yekel was discovered by one of his deputies and is believed to have died by suicide. Preliminary investigations suggest the death may have occurred Monday night.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy,” McDuffie said. “It’s supposed to be a joyous time of year, but now his family is dealing with this unimaginable loss.”
End of Tenure Following Election Loss
Appointed to the bench in 2022 by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, Judge Yekel’s term was set to conclude on December 31, 2024, following his unsuccessful reelection bid earlier this year. While Yekel won the initial round of voting in May, he lost in a runoff election.
In a letter dated December 2, Yekel requested to resign effective December 30, citing concerns about the low voter turnout that decided the race. “I feel that the office of State Court Judge of Effingham is too important to be decided by only 6% of the eligible voters of Effingham County,” Yekel wrote. Governor Kemp denied the request, stating that the election results should stand.
A spokesperson for Governor Kemp expressed condolences, saying, “Judge Yekel’s family and loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Career and Legacy
Admitted to the Georgia Bar in 1976, Yekel had a legal career spanning nearly five decades. As a State Court Judge, he presided over criminal and civil matters in Springfield, a community located about 26 miles north of Savannah.
Bar records indicate Yekel was in good standing at the time of his death.
Investigation Ongoing
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) will conduct an autopsy as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities have not disclosed further details about the circumstances surrounding Yekel’s death.
The courthouse was closed on Tuesday, and court was not in session at the time of the discovery.
Community Reaction
The local community is mourning Yekel’s passing, with many expressing shock and sorrow. “Judge Yekel was deeply respected in our legal community and beyond,” one colleague said. “This is a tragic loss.”
Crisis Resources
For those in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org for confidential support. Additional resources are available at SpeakingOfSuicide.com.
Judge Stephen Yekel’s death underscores the silent struggles many face and the importance of seeking help during difficult times.
