Investigation says shooting deaths were murder-suicide

VALDOSTA -- Evidence collected in the shooting deaths of two people Monday afternoon indicate the incident was a murder-suicide.

That's what Lowndes County Sheriff's Office officials reported Tuesday.

Amos J. Barfield, 76, Dasher, and Marylyn Barfield, 64, were found dead Monday at a residence in the 2400 block of South Patterson Street. Sheriff's Office deputies received a call about the deaths after 4 p.m.

"It appears the female shot the male, then herself," said Capt. J.D. Yeager.

The Barfields had recently divorced, Yeager said.

There were no witnesses to the Barfields' deaths.

The Sheriff's Office won't release information about the type of firearm involved until the investigation is complete.

The Barfields' bodies were sent to the state crime lab for examination.

Amos Barfield was a veterinarian associated with Lake Park Veterinary Hospital and Veterinary Care of Valdosta. He also was associated with Moody Veterinary Services and the Lowndes County Animal Shelter.

Survivors include two daughters, Lea Thornhill of Dasher and Carole Barfield of Rutledge; and two sons, Dave Barfield of Dobson, N.C., and Ken Barfield of Raleigh, N.C.

Funeral services for Marylyn Barfield have not been announced.

Dr. Barfield's funeral services are at 11 a.m. Friday in the chapel of Carson McLane Funeral Home.