ATLANTA, Ga. — Authorities in Cherokee County are investigating a heartbreaking suspected murder-suicide after a father and his adult daughter were found dead in a wooded area Tuesday afternoon. The discovery has left family members and the surrounding community searching for answers as investigators work to piece together what led to the tragic outcome.
According to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were alerted around 4 p.m. after a concerned 911 caller reported receiving a troubling text message from his brother-in-law. The message reportedly contained only a location deep in the woods, raising immediate concern for the safety of those involved. Deputies were dispatched to the area off Lower Burris Road in unincorporated Canton to conduct a welfare check.
When deputies arrived at the wooded location, they discovered two bodies. Authorities identified the victims as 57-year-old Curtis Evans and his 28-year-old daughter, Emily Evans. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators quickly secured the area as they began examining evidence and interviewing relatives to determine what had occurred.
Preliminary findings suggest Curtis Evans shot and killed his daughter before turning the gun on himself, investigators said. Officials described the case as a suspected murder-suicide. At this time, deputies have not released information about what may have motivated the incident, and no prior threats or warnings have been publicly disclosed.
The sheriff’s office said cases involving family members are especially difficult, noting the emotional toll such incidents take on loved ones and first responders alike. Authorities emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages and that details could change as more evidence is reviewed, including digital communications and forensic findings from the scene.
Officials have not indicated whether there was a history of domestic issues or mental health concerns connected to the case. The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office said it will continue working closely with the medical examiner to confirm the official cause and manner of death for both victims.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone who may have had recent contact with Curtis or Emily Evans, or who may have information relevant to the case, to come forward. As deputies continue their work, the community is left mourning a devastating loss while waiting for answers in what investigators describe as a deeply tragic and complex case.
