Man and Woman Found Dead in Etowah County Home; Investigation Underway
ETOWAH COUNTY, Ala. — Authorities are investigating after a man and woman were found dead Sunday afternoon in the Coats Bend community of Etowah County.
According to the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a welfare check around 12:00 p.m. in the 6000 block of Old Highway 411. When they arrived, they discovered two individuals who were later pronounced deceased at the scene.
Victims Identified
The victims have been identified as 71-year-old James Timothy Thornton and 57-year-old Kelley Davis Thornton. Both were residents of the area. Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances leading to their deaths, but the case is being treated with the highest level of investigative care.
Law Enforcement Response
Following the discovery, the area was immediately secured as investigators worked to process the scene. The Jacksonville State University Center for Applied Forensics and the Etowah County District Attorney’s Office responded to assist with the investigation, highlighting the seriousness of the case.
Sheriff’s officials have not yet disclosed whether foul play is suspected, but they have confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Autopsies are expected to be conducted to determine the exact cause and manner of death for both victims.
Community Reaction
The deaths of James and Kelley Thornton have sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Coats Bend community. Neighbors described the situation as “deeply unsettling” and expressed sorrow for the loss of two longtime residents. Many are awaiting answers from investigators as they work through the details of this tragic case.
Request for Information
Authorities have not indicated any ongoing threat to the public but are asking for patience as they continue their work. Community members who may have information relevant to the case are encouraged to reach out to the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office.
Moving Forward
As investigators piece together the circumstances surrounding the deaths, the community mourns the sudden loss of James Timothy Thornton and Kelley Davis Thornton. More information, including preliminary findings from forensic analysis, is expected to be released in the coming days.
For now, the case serves as a somber reminder of how fragile life can be and the importance of supporting families and communities facing unexpected tragedy.