Police in Georgia announce a breakthrough in the 2011 killing of 17-year-old Blake Chappell, who was found dead after his homecoming dance. Scotty Elliot Smith has confessed, officials say.
Breakthrough in 14-Year-Old Murder Case
Police in Newnan, Georgia, have announced a major development in the cold case of Blake Chappell, the 17-year-old boy found dead in a creek after his high school homecoming dance in 2011.
Chappell disappeared on October 16, 2011, while walking from his girlfriend’s house to a friend’s place. For months, his case was treated as a runaway. But on December 19, 2011, his body was discovered in a creek, wearing only underwear, with a single gunshot wound.
Arrest and Confession
On September 12, 2025, the Newnan Police Department confirmed the arrest of 38-year-old Scotty Elliot Smith, who has allegedly confessed to the murder.
Smith now faces multiple charges, including:
Murder
Aggravated assault
Possession of a firearm during a felony
Concealing a death
Tampering with evidence
Police said Smith had not previously been investigated in the case. A new lead connected him to the crime, and during interviews, he allegedly admitted to killing Chappell.
Long Road to Justice
Officials praised the “countless hours of dedication” by detectives and the Coweta County DA’s investigators.
“The commitment of our partners and the community’s trust has been vital in the pursuit of justice,” police said in a statement.
Smith has a prior criminal record, including charges for criminal damage and damaging government property in 2018. He was released from prison in 2020.
Ongoing Investigation
Although an arrest has been made, police say the investigation is still ongoing. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to contact Det. Marcos Gonzalez or Lt. Chris Robinson at (770) 254-2355.
