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A manhunt in Georgia came to an end Wednesday after authorities captured a Top 10 fugitive connected to the unexplained death of a 35-year-old woman, even as investigators have released few details about what they believe occurred.
Drake Ladon Keef, 32, was arrested with assistance from the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office and later booked into the Floyd County Jail, according to the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office.
Keef had been sought on warrants charging him with aggravated battery, hit-and-run and driving with a suspended license. Floyd County police said the warrants were connected to the investigation into the death of Stevie Marie Thompson.
Thompson, 35, died after a late-night incident in Rome, Georgia. Investigators later named Keef as the suspect in her death and secured warrants for his arrest.
Drake Ladon Keef, 32, was wanted on warrants linked to the investigation into Stevie Marie Thompson’s death in Georgia. (Floyd County Sheriff’s Office)
Authorities said the incident took place sometime between midnight and 1 a.m. on Aug. 22, but they have not publicly explained what happened to Thompson or detailed Keef’s alleged involvement.
Officials have also not released Thompson’s cause or manner of death, and it remains unknown whether she and Keef knew each other.
As the investigation unfolded, the sheriff’s office placed Keef on its Top 10 Most Wanted list and warned the public not to approach him while authorities worked to track him down.
The search ended Wednesday when Keef was taken into custody with help from deputies in Bartow County.
Drake Ladon Keef sits in a law enforcement vehicle after being taken into custody. Keef had been listed among the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office’s Top 10 Most Wanted fugitives. (Floyd County Sheriff’s Office)
Officials did not immediately say where Keef was found or provide details about the circumstances surrounding his capture. The sheriff’s office thanked the assisting deputies and members of the community who provided information during the search.
As investigators continue working to determine what led to Thompson’s death, her family is raising money for funeral expenses and remembering the mother for the lives she was able to save as an organ donor.
A GoFundMe created in Thompson’s memory had raised nearly $4,000 toward an $8,000 goal as of Thursday.
Police in Georgia are investigating the death of 35-year-old Stevie Marie Thompson after a suspect linked to the case was captured following a manhunt. (iStock)
The fundraiser also asked for support for Thompson’s children, sisters and other relatives as they cope with the loss.
Despite Keef’s capture, major questions surrounding Thompson’s death remain unanswered. Police have not revealed what evidence led them to Keef or whether he could face additional charges as the investigation continues.
News Outlet has reached out to the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office for additional information.
Keef remained in the Floyd County Jail following his capture.
