TOWNS COUNTY, Ga. – A volunteer firefighter has been arrested for allegedly interfering with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s (GBI) probe into the deaths of twin brothers found earlier this month at the top of Bell Mountain.
Scott Kerlin, 42, of Hiawassee, was charged with misdemeanor obstruction after investigators determined he took photos at the scene where 19-year-olds Qaadir Malik Lewis and Naazir Rahim Lewis were discovered and shared them on social media. Kerlin, who responded to the scene in his official capacity, has since been released on bond and removed from his position with the fire department for violating agency protocol.
The bodies of the Lewis twins, originally from Lawrenceville, were located on March 8 by hikers. Both had sustained gunshot wounds. While investigators say early findings suggest a murder-suicide, no official determination has been made. Autopsies have been completed, but the final cause of death is pending further forensic testing.
Family members have voiced concerns about the initial theory, pointing out that the twins were scheduled to fly to Boston on March 7 but never arrived at the airport. Their plane tickets were reportedly found in their wallets when their bodies were recovered. Loved ones also noted that the brothers had no known ties to Bell Mountain, a remote area more than two hours from their home, raising suspicions of possible foul play.
The GBI is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths and urges anyone with information to come forward.
According to a March 9 press release, the Towns County 911 Center received a call around 11:05 a.m. on March 8 reporting two deceased individuals atop Bell Mountain. Upon arrival, authorities requested assistance from the GBI, and both young men were found with gunshot wounds. The investigation remains active and ongoing.
