Georgia’s Top 10 Fugitive Arrested in Connection With Woman’s Death

Authorities in Georgia captured Drake Ladon Keef, 32, on Wednesday, ending a search for the fugitive who had been linked to the death of Stevie Marie Thompson, 35. The Bartow County Sheriff’s Office assisted in taking Keef into custody, and he was subsequently booked into Floyd County Jail, according to the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office.

Keef faced outstanding warrants on charges including aggravated battery, hit-and-run, and driving with a suspended license, all connected to the investigation into Thompson’s death. The Floyd County Sheriff’s Office had placed him on its Top 10 Most Wanted list as the search intensified, cautioning the public against approaching him.

Thompson died following an incident that occurred between midnight and 1 a.m. on August 22 in Rome, Georgia. Despite identifying Keef as a suspect and obtaining arrest warrants, authorities have not disclosed Thompson’s cause of death, manner of death, or the specific circumstances surrounding the incident.

The sheriff’s office did not immediately clarify where Keef was apprehended or provide details about his capture. Officials thanked Bartow County deputies and community members who supplied information during the investigation.

Thompson’s family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses and support her children and relatives. The fundraiser, which had raised nearly $4,000 toward an $8,000 goal as of Thursday, also highlighted Thompson’s legacy as an organ donor.

Keef remains incarcerated in Floyd County Jail as investigators continue examining evidence in the case. Police have not indicated whether additional charges may be filed against him as the investigation progresses.