Newton County, GA (May 29, 2020) – On Friday, May 29, 2020, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was requested by the Newton County Sheriff’s Office to assist in a death investigation in Butts County.

Preliminary information indicates that on Thursday night, May 28, 2020, Newton County deputies initiated a traffic stop.  A vehicle pursuit ensued that led them to Hickory Point Drive in Jackson, Butts County, GA.  Gavin Campbell, age 19, of Covington, exited the vehicle and fled on foot into Jackson Lake.  Officers pursued Campbell, dove into the lake, and attempted to rescue him.  The Georgia State Patrol, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Butts County Sheriff’s Office, Newton County Sheriff’s Office, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, and Butts County Fire and Rescue Dive Team attempted to locate him last night, but rescue efforts were not successful.

At approximately 2:30 PM today, Campbell’s body was found.  An autopsy will be conducted by a GBI Medical Examiner.

DNR will investigate the death.  The GBI is investigating what led to the death.

Contact

Assistant Special Agent in Charge Joshua Ayer

[email protected]