Philip Malone
The search for a missing man from Roswell has ended in tragedy after his body was recovered from Lake Lanier, authorities have confirmed. Philip Malone, 85, had been reported missing over the Valentine’s Day weekend while visiting family in the Atlanta area. He was last seen on Saturday, 14 February 2026, near Emory University Hospital. When he failed to return home and could not be reached, relatives contacted the Roswell Police Department.
Early on Monday morning, a boater alerted emergency services after spotting what appeared to be a vehicle submerged near Tidwell Park, a popular launch site on the lake. The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit responded and confirmed the vehicle, a red Toyota Camry registered to Mr Malone, was beneath the water.
Divers later recovered the vehicle and found Mr Malone deceased inside. Officials said he was fully clothed and showed no obvious signs of trauma. Investigators have stated that the car did not appear to have significant collision damage and that, at this stage, there is no indication of foul play.
Sheriff Ron Freeman described the recovery as a co-ordinated effort involving multiple agencies and extended condolences to Mr Malone’s family. The operation was completed on Monday, and his body was transported for further examination. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been asked to conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death. Authorities say it remains unclear whether the incident was accidental or involved other circumstances. Investigators are continuing to review Mr Malone’s movements prior to his disappearance and have urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement as inquiries continue.
