On October 15th, 2011, just minutes before midnight, members from the DeFuniak Springs Police responded to a person hanging himself at 480 Country Club Drive. The victim was identified as George Richard Payne, 52 years of age.
Investigation revealed after Payne failed to answer the door for a friend that had arrived to spend the night, the landlord gained entry to find him hanging by his neck. The landlord dialed 9-1-1 and lowered Payne to the floor.
The landlord indicated there was no sign of life, however he performed CPR until helped arrived.
Upon the arrival of DeFuniak Springs Fire and Walton County Emergency Medical Staff, Payne was pronounced deceased.
The investigation is still ongoing. There are no indications of foul play at this time.
Lieutenant Tilman Mears
Special Operations Division Commander
mearstf@defuniakspringspolice.net.