Arrest made in death of homeless Gainesville man

GAINESVILLE — A death investigation of a Gainesville man found near railroad tracks has led Gainesville Police to an arrest.

Just before 7 p.m. on Monday, October 18., Gainesville officers responded to the railroad track area near Georgia Ave. and Industrial Blvd. regarding an unconscious man.

The man, identified as 68-year-old Leon Hines, was seen slumped over between railroad tracks with blood on his head and hands. Medical personnel on scene attempted to provide medical care, but Hines was pronounced dead.

Gainesville investigators conducted a thorough death investigation to find out what led up to Hines’ death.

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According to the Gainesville Police Dept., the preliminary investigation did not rule out foul play, and the manner of death was uncertain until an autopsy could be conducted. An autopsy on October 21, concluded the manner of death as a homicide.

Numerous interviews and analysis of forensic evidence led police to name 51-year-old Dexter Barnard Pulliam as a suspect in the case. An arrest warrant was secured for Pulliam on the charge of Felony Malice Murder.

Pulliam is currently in custody and being held at the Hall County Jail.

Police say they believe the two men were members of a homeless encampment in the area, and they were known to each other.

“As always, we share our deepest condolences to those affected by this crime. Anytime a member of this community is the victim of a heinous act of violence, it impacts as all. We at the Gainesville Police Department will always be a voice for those who are the victims of such crimes.” Gainesville Police Chief Jay Parrish said.