The search for 20-year-old Derek Samuel has ended in tragedy. Family members say his body was found Sunday afternoon at the Reserve at Redwine apartment complex on Redwine Road in East Point, closing weeks of anxious searching and opening a new chapter for investigators. Authorities have not released details about how he died, and East Point police say the case remains an active investigation.
According to Atlanta News First, Samuel’s body was discovered at the same complex where relatives had focused much of their attention. His aunt, Carmalita Howard, told the station she "had a sad feeling in my heart all day." Family members and volunteers had been scouring the area for weeks, handing out missing-person flyers and organizing searches since he was first reported missing.
Last Seen Leaving Target At Camp Creek Marketplace
East Point police say Samuel was last seen on April 29 after leaving the Target at Camp Creek Marketplace. Surveillance video shows him walking toward North Commerce Drive and Redwine Road, according to WSB-TV. Investigators said he did not appear distressed in the footage and that phone-tracking data and other digital records are part of the ongoing probe.
Family Canvassed Area As Reward Climbed
As days turned into weeks, Samuel’s family and volunteers blanketed nearby neighborhoods and wooded areas with flyers, going door to door and organizing repeated searches. The reward for information grew to as much as $15,000 after donations, Atlanta News First reports. Relatives urged people to bring solid tips directly to police and to avoid spreading unverified theories on social media.
Phone Traced To Woods Behind Shopping Center
Investigators previously said a phone linked to the search was discovered in a wooded area behind the shopping center, according to CBS Atlanta. At this stage, authorities have not identified any suspects or announced charges as they continue to follow leads.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the East Point Police Department at 404-765-1142, the number provided by investigators, WSB-TV notes. This story will be updated as officials release more details.
