The brother of a woman who was found dead outside her Cherokee County house has been taken into custody and charged with murder, authorities said.

Joseph Twilley was spotted about 9:40 a.m. Friday by Woodstock police, said Lt. Jay Baker of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office. Twilley was driving his mother’s car that had been stolen from the scene where his sister, Karen Twilley, was found dead Wednesday morning.

Joseph Twilley will be held at the Cherokee Adult Detention Center without bond.

Baker has called Karen Twilley’s death “suspicious.” She lived with her 86-year-old mother, who is not a suspect in her death.

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The city of Brookhaven's mayor and City Council last week decided to remove the colored panes of glass from the dome of Brookhaven's new City Centre after residents objected to the brightness of the colors, seen here Friday, June 27, 2025. (Reed Williams/AJC)

Credit: Reed Williams/AJC