Baxley man found dead; Suspect arrested in homicide investigation

APPLING COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - A Baxley man was found dead early Tuesday morning, and a suspect has been arrested in connection with the homicide, according to Appling County Sheriff Mark Melton.

Deputies with the Appling County Sheriff’s Office and Appling County EMS responded to a residence on Cindy Rae Lane at approximately 4 a.m. on June 2, 2026. Upon arrival, first responders discovered a man who was pronounced dead at the scene by EMS personnel.

The victim was identified as 63-year-old Clarence Steven Ayers of Baxley.

Investigators with the Appling County Sheriff’s Office and the Appling County Coroner’s Office determined that Ayers was the victim of a homicide. Authorities requested assistance from the Georgia State Patrol in locating a suspect who had fled the scene.

The suspect was later apprehended and identified as 41-year-old Samuel David Veal. Veal is being held at the Appling County Detention Center.

Ayers’ body will be transported to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab for an autopsy as investigators continue to gather evidence in the case.

The investigation remains active and ongoing.

Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Appling County Sheriff’s Office at (912) 367-8120.

Melton also thanked deputies, Appling County EMS personnel and the Georgia State Patrol for their quick response and assistance during the investigation.