James Edward Sinkfield in an undated photo. (Photo provided by family)
CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. - A retired Atlanta police officer was found dead in his own driveway Saturday morning, sparking a Clayton County death investigation after family members discovered blood inside the home, according to authorities and relatives.
What we know:
Emergency personnel rushed to the 70 block of Upper Riverdale Road around 9 a.m. Saturday. Officers responded to the neighborhood after receiving a call regarding an unresponsive person.
When they arrived, first responders located a person lying in the driveway of a home. Clayton County fire personnel officially pronounced the person dead at the scene.
Family members identified the man as 61-year-old James Edward Sinkfield.
Retired Atlanta Police Officer James Edward Sinkfield was found dead in his own driveway on June 13, 2026, according to family members. (FOX 5)
What they're saying:
Relatives are demanding answers and noted that Sinkfield was a well-known community member who spent years with the Atlanta Police Department and was still serving as a retired but active officer in South Georgia.
The family is deeply concerned about the circumstances surrounding his death because they found blood throughout the home.
"Our family wants justice simply because this family member was a well-known great citizen of Georgia," Sinkfield's family member told FOX 5.
What we don't know:
Although officials have not released any information regarding the person found dead, family members confirmed to FOX 5 Sinkfield's identity.
Police have not released details regarding how the man died or if they suspect foul play.
The investigation remains active as authorities search for answers.
The Source: The information in this article comes from the Clayton County Police Department. Additional information comes from Sinkfield's family.