‘He's on the burn pile.’ DNA, admission led to wife’s murder charges
Detectives investigating the 2018 death of an Atlanta commercial real estate attorney suspected his wife soon after locating DNA evidence connecting her to the crime.
Investigators became even more convinced Melody Farris was involved in the death of her husband, 59-year-old Gary Farris, when they interviewed her boyfriend about a phone conversation one day before her husband's smoldering remains were discovered, Cherokee County Sheriff's Office Det. Daniel Hayes testified Friday at a probable cause hearing.
Rusty Barton, engaged in a long-term affair with Melody Farris, said she told him, ‘He’s on the burn pile,’” Hayes said.
“Rusty said, ‘What?’” the detective said. Melody Farris repeated: “He’s on the burn pile,” he said.
PAST COVERAGE: Melody Farris in custody, suspected in husband's death
Investigators had already zeroed in on Gary Farris’ wife of 38 years long, Hayes said.
Droplets of blood matching the deceased lawyer’s DNA were found all over the large home where the couple resided, on separate floors and in separate bedrooms, Hayes said. They also found blood matching Gary Farris’ DNA on a blouse and pair of shoes belonging to Melody Farris.
Melody Farris, being held without bond at the Cherokee Adult Detention Center, has, through her attorneys, maintained her innocence.
Please return to ajc.com for updates to this developing story.
About the Author
A native Atlantan, Boone joined the AJC staff in 2007. He quickly carved out a niche covering crime stories, assuming the public safety beat in 2014. He's covered some of the biggest trials this decade, from Hemy Neuman to Ross Harris to Chip Olsen, the latter of which was featured on Season 7 of the AJC's award-winning "Breakdown" podcast.
