A mother and her son were discovered deceased in their southwest Georgia yard approximately a week after they are believed to have collapsed, according to the Sumter County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies responded to a call for a welfare check at a residence off Highway 118 in the Leslie area of Sumter County on September 22. Upon arrival, officers found a deceased female. A further search of the property led to the discovery of a deceased male near the residence.
The victims have been identified as Emma R Handler, 89, and William Womack, 68. Initial reports suggest that Womack collapsed while cutting grass with a push mower, and Handler subsequently collapsed after going outside to assist him.
Autopsies are being conducted to determine the exact cause of death. The Sumter County Sheriff's Office, in conjunction with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Sumter County Coroner’s Office, is actively investigating the incident.
Sheriff Eric Bryant stated that there is currently no evidence indicating foul play or suspicion, but emphasized that the investigation remains active. The Sheriff's Office extended its condolences to the victims' families.