A Georgia state judge has taken his own life inside his courtroom.
The body of Judge Stephen Yekel was discovered inside Effingham County State Court on Tuesday morning. He is believed to have shot himself dead.
Yekel, 74, had recently lost a bid for re-election and was found by a deputy on what would have been his last day on the bench, WSAV reports.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is now probing the horrific incident.
Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie said Yekel was discovered around 10am, but it appeared he had shot himself late Monday night or early Tuesday.
Yekel was appointed to the state court in 2022. He had tried to resign from his position, but was prevented from doing so by Governor Brian Kemp.
McDuffie said he understood Yekel had sent a note to the Governor’s office regarding the resignation, but did not disclose its contents.
The courtroom has been closed and will resume normal business on January 2.
‘The Effingham County Board of Commissioners and staff are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Judge Steve Yekel at the Effingham County Courthouse today and we offer our condolences to his family and loved ones,’ a statement