GBI Seeking Help Three Years After Franklin Co. Murder

Law Enforcement officials are still seeking information to identify the killer of a Franklin County businessman, as the three-year anniversary of his death approaches.

Keith Ratliff, manager and co-owner of FPS Industries, Global, LLC, was found dead at his business in Carnesville, GA on January 3, 2013.

Ratliff was discovered by an employee of the business in the early evening hours on that day.

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office responded to the business after a call to 911 was made.  The Athens Regional Office of the GBI was asked to assist with the investigation.

According to the GBI, over twenty-four hours were spent examining the scene where Ratliff was found.

GBI officials say there were no signs of forced entry at the business and surveillance equipment, along with some firearms, had been taken, and there did not appear to be a struggle of any kind, and based on the scene, Ratliff died while he was working.

Authorities say Ratliff may have been killed by an individual or individuals he trusted.

Ratliff was also the manager of a popular YouTube Channel called “FPS Russia,” which had millions of followers.

There were several videos posted on the channel, most of them showcasing weapons.

Ratliff’s death gained international interest, but nothing lead to an arrest of the person(s) responsible for killing him.

Investigators strongly believe the individual or individuals responsible for Ratliff’s murder are known to other people.

As such, those potential witnesses should be aware they present a possible continued threat to whoever is responsible for killing Ratliff, especially if they fear being discovered or implicated in the crime by these witnesses.

Anyone with knowledge of those responsible for Ratliff’s murder should contact the police as failing to do so places them at a continued risk of harm.

If anyone has any information relating to this case, please call the GBI Athens office at 706-552-2309 or the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office at 706-384-2525.