St. Simons Island dentist charged with murder after partner's death

Suzanne Mericle, a well-known dentist from St. Simon's Island, has been arrested and charged with the murder of her 68-year-old partner, James David Barron, in their Gainesville, Georgia home. The incident occurred early Saturday morning, with deputies responding to a 911 call and finding Barron unresponsive from a gunshot wound to his torso. Mericle, 61, is facing charges including felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Despite the serious charges, her dental practice continues to operate, leaving the community shocked given her previously positive reputation. Mericle remains in custody without bond, and the investigation is ongoing with no motive yet released. The community remains in disbelief as Mericle was known as a kind and compassionate professional.