Family of man found dead in Chattahoochee River seek justice: 'This is my baby boy'
Body of man found in Chattahoochee River identified
The family of the man found dead in the Chattahoochee River earlier this month says they need answers. The Fulton County Medical Examiner confirms the body found in the river on June 5 belonged to 30-year-old Lemarcus Wilkerson. His family tells FOX 5 he had just graduated with his master’s degree.
CHATTAHOOCHEE HILLS, Ga. - The body of the man found by two fishermen in Chattahoochee Hills has been identified.
The body of 30-year-old LaMarcus Wilkerson was found in the water of the Chattahoochee River on June 5.
Wilkerson’s parents, Markus and Brenda Wilkerson, say they want to know how his life ended so early.
Body found in the Chattahooche River
Officers with the Chattahoochee Hills Police Department rushed to the Campbellton Park boat ramp the evening of the discovery.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources was called in to assist with the recovery of the body.
"We got the news and that was the worst day ever," Markus Wilkerson said.
Chattahoochee Hills police respond to the Campbellton Park Boat Ramp after a report of a dead body on June 5, 2024. (FOX 5)
The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office has not released a cause of death. It also was not readily known how long his body had been in the water.
"No answers there. This is an ongoing investigation," Markus Wilkerson said.
Who is LaMarcus Wilkerson?
Wilkerson, who was also known as "Lil Man," was a former Boy Scout who fell in love with the outdoors at an early age, according to family members.
Wilkerson’s parents described their son as outgoing, empathetic, and someone who was building an incredible future for himself.
"Energetic, outgoing family-based guy, very intelligent, beyond anything that I could ever imagine…this is my baby boy right here, and I'm missing him," Markus Wilkerson said.
LaMarcus Wilkerson (Family photo)
He was known for his unforgettable sparkling smile, and his passion for sports, particularly baseball.
Wilkerson was a member of the congregation of God's True Worshipers Church in Decatur, where he was known for his dedication to helping others, mentoring youth, and being a friend to all.
Family members say he had an unbreakable bond with his brother Marquez.
Wilkerson graduated from East Coweta High School in Sharpsburg in 2011. He attended Valdosta State University, where he obtained his bachelor's degree in English, and recently earned a master's degree in cybersecurity from Kennesaw State University.
"And he had a 4.0 average," Markus Wilkerson explained.
A memorial service will be held for him at 2 p.m. this Saturday at Cook Brothers Funeral Directors & Cremations.
"We just want justice…if anyone knows any information, help us out. Help us out," Brenda Wilkerson said.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Chattahoochee Hills Police Department.
The family has set up GoFundMe account.