Suspect Captured After Manhunt in Fatal Madison County Shooting

MADISON COUNTY, Ga. — A man has been arrested and charged with murder following a fatal shooting early Sunday morning in Comer, GA, according to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded during the early morning hours of May 17, 2026, to the 2300 block of Osley Mill Road after receiving a 911 call reporting a shooting.

When deputies arrived, they discovered 46-year-old Billy Swafford suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities said Swafford, who lived at the residence, died from his injuries at the scene.

Investigators said a roommate identified the suspected shooter as someone personally known to them who had been staying at the property.

According to authorities, the suspect fled before deputies arrived, prompting a large-scale manhunt.

The sheriff’s office requested assistance from Georgia State Patrol Aviation Unit and Elbert County Sheriff’s Office K-9 teams during the search.

Officials said the suspect, identified as Jacob Cassidy, was captured by approximately 1:53 a.m. after an extensive search of the surrounding area.

Cassidy was taken into custody without incident and charged with murder.

Investigators said the case remains active and ongoing.