Crime & Safety

Man Missing Since Christmas Found Dead In GA Lake

The man disappeared on Christmas Day and was later found dead in West Point Lake, Troup County authorities say.

TROUP COUNTY, GA — A man who disappeared on Christmas Day has been found dead in West Point Lake, the Troup County Sheriff's Office announced Saturday.

Authorities said the body of Fernando Ortiz was found around 1:45 p.m. by members of Georgia Emergency Search and Rescue. Other groups assisted with the search for Ortiz.

He was last seen on Christmas at Liberty Hill Road, authorities said.

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The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is conducting an autopsy to determine a cause of death.

"While there are still many unanswered questions as to the death of Mr. Ortiz, some of which we hope will be answered with the results of the autopsy. Our agency has always prided itself on being transparent with you the citizens and the families of victims. As information in this case transpires, it will be shared," authorities said Sunday.

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Authorities asked anyone with information to call the department's Criminal Investigations Division, (706) 883-1616.

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