Death Investigation in Pulaski County

Hawkinsville, GA (January 26, 2021) – On Monday, January 25, 2021, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was requested by the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office to conduct a death investigation. 

Preliminary investigation revealed that a BOLO (be on the lookout) was issued for John Marion Dykes, Jr., age 42 of Leesburg, and his vehicle.  Dykes was wanted for one count of child molestation.  The warrant was secured by Lee County Sheriff’s Office in Leesburg, Georgia. At approximately 3:41 p.m., a Bleckley County Sheriff’s Office deputy observed Dykes’ vehicle on Highway 129 near the Bleckley/Pulaski County line.  The deputy conducted a traffic stop on Dykes’ vehicle.  The traffic stop occurred just inside Pulaski County on Highway 129. 

The preliminary investigation revealed that as the deputy performed the traffic stop, Dykes shot himself while still inside his vehicle.  The GBI Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct an autopsy on Dykes. 

The GBI investigation is active and ongoing.