Arrest made after Atlanta woman Darla Gibbons’ body found in burned car

Athens-Clarke County police and the Georgia Bureau of Investigations say they are close to solving the murder of a 26-year-old Atlanta woman found bued in her own car.

The charred car and body of Darla Gibbons was discovered Wednesday at a rock quarry on Winterville Road next to the airport and less than a mile from her mother’s home.

”Why would you torture somebody like that, and bu them and stuff them in the trunk of the car? asked Gibbons' mother, Sandra Johnson. ”That’s what hurts.

Gibbons lived alone in Atlanta, but came to Athens often to visit family.

Investigators say she was in a long-term relationship with Rodricus Ward, of Greene County, and tell reporters he’s been arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Investigators say she was in a long-term relationship with Rodricus Ward, of Greene County, and tell reporters he’s been arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Ward is now locked up in the Greene County Jail.

”At this point in time we’re in consultation with both district attoeys’ offices and anticipate additional charges forthcoming, said GBI Special Agent in Charge Mike Ayers.

Gibbons' mother says she’s pleased to hear from detectives Friday they have a suspect and he’s locked up.

”They’re doing everything they can. They’re close to a closure and will answer all the questions, said Johnson. ”Try who did it, to find out why, when it happened and of course who did it."