William Michael Leach, 49, was found shot to death in his bed at his Fayetteville, Georgia home in January 2023. The residence was then set on fire; investigators say the blaze was intentionally started in an apparent effort to conceal the killing. A passerby reported the house fully engulfed in flames early the next morning, which prompted firefighters and a law enforcement investigation.

William’s 23-year-old son, Griffin Michael Leach, drove past the burning house and was stopped by a deputy who found his behavior suspicious. Investigators say Griffin at first told them William had started the fire and taken his own life after an argument. Evidence collected at the scene and from Griffin’s vehicle and clothing undermined that account: a .38 special revolver from Griffin’s truck was forensically linked to the fatal shooting, gasoline was detected on the victim, the bedding, and Griffin’s clothes, and gunshot residue was found on Griffin’s hands and clothing.

Griffin Leach was arrested and charged with murder and arson; he was later convicted of malice murder, felony murder, first degree arson, and concealing the death of another and sentenced to life plus 35 years. Does anyone have information about William’s final hours or the relationship between him and his son?