A Demorest man was found dead in the Soque River on Friday night after apparently jumping to his death from a bridge.
Around 6:30 p.m. Friday, law enforcement and EMS personnel were dispatched to the area of Highway 197 North at its first bridge crossing after a reported incident of a person entering the waterway.
After a brief search, responders located and recovered the body of a white male approximately 200 yards from the reported entry point to the water. The body was recovered from the river and subsequently transported to the Northeast Georgia Medical Center In Gainesville.
Despite resuscitative efforts by medical personnel, the male did succumb to injuries sustained from the fall and subsequent underwater submersion.
“Preliminary investigation into the incident indicates that the male was in the midst of a mental health crisis, and as a result, made the decision to enter the water of his own accord and by way of the 197 Bridge,” Clarkesville Police Chief Brad Barrett said in a release. “At the time of this release, there is no evidence in existence that would indicate foul play.”
The man was later identified as 35-year-old Danny Ray Still, Jr, of Demorest.
On Thanksgiving Day, Still made his last post on Facebook.
“I know every human on Earth is struggling in some form. Pause everything for a minute, and be greatful (sic) to still be living. If you’re still sitting around bashing and name calling others then you aren’t happy with yourself,” the post read. “We all have the ability to control the negative energy!!! Blessings to all who celebrate Thanksgiving, and Harvest Feast, on this day, and blessings, and safe travels all around the World.”
– Staff reports