Heidt family dealing with another tragedy

By Michelle Paynter - bio | email

EFFINGHAM COUNTY, GA (WTOC) - The Heidt family is dealing with yet another tragedy.

Effingham County Sheriff's Office investigators say they are investigating the possible suicide of Robin Heidt's brother.

Blue lights from patrol cars flashed outside Heidt's home around 9 p.m. Tuesday on Ebenezer Road.

Inside investigators say 34-year-old John Raft likely committed suicide. The medical examiner found no signs of foul play.

Robin Heidt has been the center of an investigation herself. Back in August 2008 her husband Carey and his father Phillip were murdered.

Prosecutors say they have evidence that Robin was having an affair with the suspect, her brother-in-law, Craig Heidt. Craig Heidt is charged with the murders.

For the past two years this case has captivated many people in Effingham County, like Randy Willis. "I am kind of shocked that something like this has reared its ugly head again," he said. "Its unfortunate, we will have to say a prayer for all the families."

Jonathan Simmons from Springfield added, "It's just a bad situation. The whole thing is a bad situation, kind of hard to believe."

The Heidts are a very well-known family in Springfield. It's a small community where information travels fast, especially a big criminal investigation.

"We've all heard from the start, heard rumors of what was going on," said Rachel Griffin from Rincon.

Many say they are tired of all the rumors. But since investigators have been so tight lipped about the case they are anxious for the trial to begin so they can learn the facts. They shouldn't have to wait too much longer. The trial is set at the Effingham county courthouse in less than two weeks.

Many are wondering if this latest incident, the suicide investigation, has any ties to the pending trial. At this moment, investigators aren't saying.

"I hope they get to the bottom of it because it's a never ending story basically," said Simmons.

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