A South Georgia judge has died after apparently taking his own life in an Effingham County courthouse

This story is about suicide. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Police are investigating the incident Judge of the state of Georgia was found dead in the courtroom on Tuesday.

Effingham County sheriff’s deputies said they found 74-year-old State Court Judge Steven Yeakel Tuesday morning.

It seems that he died by suicide shooting himself– said the sheriff.

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Effingham County Sheriff’s deputies said in a statement that they found 74-year-old State Court Judge Stephen Yeakel. (State Court Judge Stephen Yekel via Facebook)

His death is being investigated by the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation perform an autopsy.

Authorities said Yekel died Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

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He was appointed to the bench two years ago by Yekel Georgia Governor Brian Kemplost his election bid earlier this year.

His term of office was supposed to end on December 31, 2024.

Judge Stephen Yeakel, 74, was found dead of a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound at the Effingham County Courthouse in Springfield, Georgia. (Google Maps)

The Effingham Board of County Commissioners said in a statement that they were “deeply saddened” by Yekel’s death.

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“The Effingham County Board of Commissioners and staff are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Judge Steve Yeakel today at the Effingham County Courthouse, and our condolences go out to his family and loved ones,” they said.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Effingham County Board of Commissioners for comment.