When police in Georgia responded to a call about an unresponsive child in a car at a park, they had no idea what they’d soon discover. Currently, investigators believe James Lee Mayo, 37, shot and killed his daughter, Emily Grace Mayo, 9, before turning the gun on himself in an apparent murder-suicide. Emily Grace’s family now mourns her death and wonders how her father could have killed his own child.
According to a statement from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, officers arrived at Brooklet City Park around 7:45 p.m. on May 27, 2025.
“Brooklet Police Department and the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call reporting an unresponsive child locked in a vehicle at Brooklet City Park,” the statement reads.
Police reportedly found Emily Grace in the backseat and her father in the front, both dead from apparent gunshot wounds. “A handgun was found on his lap,” GBI noted.
Later, Emily Grace’s aunt, Amber Healy, created a GoFundMe for her sister, Courtney Badgett, to aid with Emily Grace’s final expenses. The heartbroken woman shared her sadness.
“We are shattered. We are broken. The news stories are not getting it right. Emily was taken from this earth by the person who was supposed to protect her and love her. Instead, he was sick and selfish. He didn’t deserve her,” Healy wrote.
“Emily was ours and now she is not with us. Life doesn’t feel real. I am currently writing an obituary for a nine year old. My nine year old niece. How does one do that? I don’t know,” she wrote.
So far, the fundraiser surpassed its original $10,000 goal, bringing in donations of more than $30,000.
Additionally, several people shared sympathy with the family on Joiner-Anderson Funeral Home and Crematory obituary post for Emily Grace.
“Prayers for your sweet family so very sorry for the loss of your baby girl she was very beautiful and always will be,” a message reads.
“Praying so hard for this family, especially her Mother. May God wrap you in his arms and carry you all through the very difficult days, weeks, months & years ahead. I am deeply sorry. This child’s smile is so infectious and she will forever be remembered,” another person wrote.
At this point, the deaths remain under investigation.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
