A 28-year-old man from Kennesaw, Georgia, has been arrested for allegedly murdering his mother. Daniel Sarris was taken into custody in Gordon County on charges of aggravated assault and murder after police discovered his mother, Melanie Sarris, dead in her home during a welfare check on Monday, February 24.
Neighbors were left shocked by the news. Julie Cannon, who lives nearby, expressed disbelief. “They seemed like a normal family. It’s just heartbreaking,” she told Atlanta News First. She recalled that Daniel was a typical child but seemed to become more distant as he grew older. “I’ve heard nothing but good things about his mother. This is truly a tragedy,” she added.
The Cobb County Police Department’s major crimes unit was called to investigate the case. Authorities later arrested Daniel Sarris in Gordon County for allegedly possessing stolen property. His past legal troubles include an arrest for simple battery and family violence on April 26 of last year.
According to legal records, Daniel got into a physical altercation with his 69-year-old father during an argument. He reportedly grabbed his father’s shirt while trying to stop him from leaving their home. Daniel wanted to talk, but his father continued walking away.
Relatives have expressed concerns about Daniel’s mental health in the past. However, authorities did not pursue legal action at the time because he underwent counseling and had not been involved in any violent incidents for three months.
Police continue to investigate the tragic case as the community mourns the loss of Melanie Sarris.
