Despite best efforts, WCSO deputy can’t save man who lit himself on fire in cemetery

A Walton County Sheriff’s deputy tried desperately to save a man intent on taking his own life at Dally Cemetery in Walton County on Wednesday afternoon, but despite his best efforts, the deputy was unable to prevent Richard Smith, around age 50, of Loganville, from taking his own life.

According to Walton County Sheriff Joe Chapman, the man lit himself on fire and died as a result of his injuries. Chapman said it is dealing with such trauma that makes law enforcement so difficult for many public safety officials.

“Seeing something like that is very traumatic. That, along with all the negativity that deputies have to face at the moment, it is no wonder that it is so difficult to recruit officers now,” Chapman said.