A man wanted in connection with a fatal hit-and-run in Floyd County is now in custody after a traffic stop in the Taylorsville area.
On Tuesday evening, a Bartow County Sheriff’s Office deputy was patrolling near John Kay Road and Iron Hill Road when he spotted a silver 2023 Toyota Corolla. The passenger matched the description of Drake Ladon Keef, who was wanted out of Floyd County.
The deputy turned around and initiated a traffic stop with emergency lights and siren at the intersection of Ridge Cross Road and Smith Road. He contacted the driver and explained that the passenger matched the description of a wanted person. Deputies identified the passenger as Drake Keef. Bartow County Dispatch confirmed active warrants from Floyd County for aggravated battery, hit-and-run, and driving while his license is suspended.
The deputy placed Keef in handcuffs, conducted a pat-down, and secured him in the patrol vehicle. Floyd County Sheriff’s Office was notified. A Floyd County deputy responded, took Keef into custody without incident, and removed him from the scene.
According to authorities, the warrants stem from an incident that occurred between midnight and 1 a.m. on Saturday, August 22nd, in the area of Chulio Road and Cole Road in Floyd County. Investigators say Keef is linked to the death of 35-year-old Stevie Marie Thompson of Rome. Reports indicate a vehicle struck Thompson, causing serious injuries including broken bones; she later died at a hospital. Keef, 32 years old and of Floyd County, was also listed among the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office Top 10 Most Wanted.
The Floyd County Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division continues to investigate the circumstances of Thompson’s death. Officials have withheld additional details because the investigation remains active. Anyone with information about the August 22nd incident is asked to contact the Floyd County Police Department. Tips can also go to 911.