Deputies Find Elderly Couple Dead

"SHADY DALE, GA — Joseph Frank Lawson, Jr., and his wife, Margaret Elizabeth Lawson of Monticello were found dead in their home Monday evening, both victims of gunshot wounds.

"Apparently, Mr. Lawson first killed Mrs. Lawson, then killed himself, according to Jasper County Sheriff Donnie Pope. It is not clear when the tragedy occurred.

"Jasper County deputies were called to the home on Monday after family members had tried to reach the elderly Lawsons and were unable to.

"The deputies accompanied the Lawson’s sons, David and Joe, III, into the home, where the parents’ bodies were found.

"The bodies were taken to the crime lab, as is protocol. The medical examiner there, along with the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office and Georgia Bureau of Investigation agreed that the evidence confirms the murder/suicide.

"Deputies had responded to a 911 hang-up at the residence on Sunday. The sheriff said that at that time the deputy who responded saw no evidence of foul play, and had no reason to make forcible entry.

"Deputies responded again about 6 p.m., Monday, after a telephone request, with the same result. However, an hour later, the sons met the deputies there and let them in. That is when the couple’s bodies were found. They were both deceased.

"Mr. Lawson was 82, and Mrs. Lawson was 86."

Source: The Monticello News...