Missing Teacher Accused Of Student Misconduct, Found Dead: Police

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA — A missing DeKalb County teacher, who was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a student, was found dead late Wednesday, according to Gwinnett County police.

Gwinnett Police received a call in reference to a man slumped over in a vehicle at 1210 Scenic Highway in unincorporated Lawrenceville. Police and Fire Department personnel responded and found Zachary Meadors, 28, from Lawrenceville, deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Gwinnett Medical Examiner’s Office responded and took control of the body.

Meadors was reported missing Oct. 15. He was last seen on Oct. 13. Zachary had warrants for his arrest out of DeKalb County.

Meadors had been scheduled to meet with the DeKalb school district on Monday, but did not make the meeting. His family had filed a missing persons report with the police.

DeKalb County school officials confirmed Meadors was removed from the campus of Freedom Middle School and directed not to return.

"We are angered and disappointed to learn of the allegations facing one of our staff members at Freedom MS," the district said in a statement to Patch. "The safety of our students is a top priority, and we are determined to protect them, under any circumstances, from harm. The community should know that the district will take whatever steps necessary to meet that standard. DCSD Public Safety officers are investigating the allegations in this case.

"Meanwhile, parents and staff can take comfort in knowing the employee has been removed from campus and directed not to have contact with our students. We are determined to find the truth and to correct any misconduct that is found to have occurred."

In a letter sent home to parents, Freedom Middle School principal Marchell Boston said, "The DeKalb County School District (DCSD) and Freedom Middle School are deeply committed to the safety of students and staff. When we become aware of incidents that impact those areas, we will always share them with you.

"DCSD Public Safety officers and local law enforcement are investigating alleged misconduct involving a teacher and students. The employee has been removed from the campus and directed not to return to the school. We are investigating this allegation thoroughly and will take appropriate steps to protect our students. There is no place for such behavior in DCSD. "The investigation is ongoing, and we are unable to share more information at this time. However, please know that the health and safety of our students are paramount."

Patch Editor Tim Darnell contributed to this article.
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