Social Circle, Ga - At approximately 11:44 PM on March 29, 2012, a motorist called 911 to report a brush fire near Hwy 278 and I-20. When firefighters arrived to extinguish the fire they discovered a body in the nearby woods.   Investigation revealed the body to be that of Akili Jabari Stewart, age 36, of a Stone Mountain, Georgia address.   An autopsy of Stewart was completed by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Medical Examiner’s office on Saturday March 31, 2012.  Preliminary results revealed Stewart died as a result of gunshot wounds.

The Social Police Department, GBI Athens Regional Office, and the State Fire Marshall’s Office continue to investigate.  Because arson was involved in the crime, the State Fire Marshall issued a reward up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of person or persons responsible.

Authorities request anyone with information regarding this investigation to please contact the Georgia Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477) or the GBI Athens Office at (706) 552-2309.

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Contact Information:

SAC Jim Fullington - (706) 552-2309; Social Circle Police Chief Tom Fox - 770-464-6936