Human remains discovered by deer hunters in Flowery Branch in December are those of a man who had been reported missing almost two years ago.
The Hall County Sheriff's Office reported Wednesday that investigators had received notification from the GBI Crime Lab that the remains are those of Johnny Edgar Vickers.
According to information released by the sheriff's office, Vickers was 42-years-old when he was reported missing on April 9, 2018. An immediate family member told deputies on that date Vickers was last seen on March 5, 2018. Sheriff's Office investigators said they followed several leads in the case but never found any sign of Vickers.
On Dec. 12, 2019, two hunters discovered skeletal remains on property near the intersection of Trudy Drive and Lights Ferry Road. The remains were transported to the GBI Crime Lab for analysis at that time.
Because of the condition of the remains, the crime lab was not able to determine a cause of death for Vickers. Investigators said they do not believe foul play is involved in the death.
Vickers' family released a statement thanking the GBI and Hall County investigators who had worked on the case. They also thanked the deer hunters who found the Flowery Branch man's remains.
"Johnny was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to many. Our hearts are broken at this devastating news, but now we know he is at peace," the statement said. "Johnny will be remembered for his outgoing personality, always being a kid at heart, his awesome skateboarding abilities, and how much he loved his family."
Funeral services for Vickers are being handled by Memorial Park South Funeral Home.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2020/2/880090/gbi-identifies-skeletal-remains-found-in-flowery-branch-in-december