GBI Arrests Fort Gaines Man in Death Investigation

Fort Gaines, GA (February 8, 2024) – The GBI has arrested and charged Keddrick Hall, age 33, of Fort Gaines, GA, with Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Crime.  

The investigation shows on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at about 2:00 p.m., deputies with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office were called to Doughty Road, Fort Gaines, GA in reference to a report of a person shot. When deputies responded, they discovered Ervin Smith, age 59, of Fort Gaines, GA, suffering from a gunshot wound.  Smith was life-flighted to Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan, Alabama for further treatment. Smith later died from his injury.  

Hall was located near the scene. He was taken to the Randolph County Jail. 

Smith’s body was taken to the GBI Crime Lab located in Decatur, GA, where a GBI medical examiner performed an autopsy. 

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Sylvester at 229-777-2080, or the Clay County Sheriff’s Office at 229-768-2505. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.  

Once the investigation is complete, the case file will be given to the Pataula District Attorney’s Office for review and potential prosecution.