Arrest Report - Friday - October 16, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, October 16, 2026:
Major I-285 Closure Begins Tonight In Metro Atlanta
Motorists traveling to the Atlanta area this weekend should prepare for significant traffic delays as the Georgia Department of Transportation plans to close a section of Interstate 285 in both directions beginning tonight.
According to GDOT, all northbound and southbound lanes of I-285 between South Atlanta Road at Exit 16 and South Cobb Drive at Exit 15 will close beginning at 7 PM tonight, Friday, October 16.
The closure is expected to remain in effect until 5 AM Monday, October 19, weather permitting.
The affected section of interstate is located along the western side of Atlanta’s Perimeter Highway in the Smyrna area.
During the closure, traffic will be redirected onto designated detour routes using Interstate 75, the Interstate 75/85 Connector and Interstate 20. Roadside signs and electronic message boards will help direct motorists around the construction zone.
The closure is part of GDOT’s ongoing I-285 Westside Rebuild Project, which involves repairing and replacing deteriorating concrete roadway sections between Collier Drive in Fulton County and Paces Ferry Road in Cobb County.
The project also includes improvements to roadway shoulders, concrete medians, guardrails, signs and traffic management systems.
The construction project is scheduled for completion in 2029.
A similar closure originally scheduled for last weekend was canceled because of heavy rain associated with Hurricane Isaias.
GDOT is encouraging drivers to plan ahead, allow additional travel time and consider alternate routes, particularly during busy weekend travel periods.
Motorists from Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia traveling through the Atlanta area should be aware that the closure could affect their routes, especially those using I-285 on the western side of the city.
Drivers can check current traffic conditions and construction updates through Georgia 511 at 511ga.org or by dialing 511.
Sources
Georgia Department of Transportation; Georgia 511 traffic alerts, October 14, 2026.
Chattooga Hosts Dade County While Trion Travels To Bowdon Tonight
Both Chattooga County high school football teams are back in action tonight, Friday, October 16, with the Chattooga Indians returning to the Little Big Horn in Summerville and the Trion Bulldogs traveling to Bowdon for a region showdown.
Chattooga will host the Dade County Wolverines, while Trion will face the Bowdon Red Devils in a road contest.
Both teams are coming off victories in their most recent games and will be looking to build on that momentum.
Chattooga Looks To Build On Homecoming Victory
The Chattooga Indians return to the field tonight following an open week, having last played on Friday, October 2, when they defeated Gordon Central 38-22 in their Homecoming game at the Little Big Horn.
The victory was Chattooga’s first win of the 2026 season and improved the Indians’ record to 1-5 overall and 1-1 in Region 7-AA.
The 38-point offensive performance was an encouraging development for the Indians, who were able to celebrate Homecoming with a 16-point victory over the Warriors.
After having last Friday off, Chattooga will look to maintain that momentum against Dade County in another important region contest.
The Indians will also be looking to take advantage of playing on their home field for the second consecutive game.
Trion Coming Off Dominant Shutout Of Greenville
The Trion Bulldogs enter tonight’s matchup at Bowdon following an impressive 50-0 victory over Greenville last Friday, October 9.
The Bulldogs traveled to Greenville for their region opener and delivered a dominant performance, scoring 50 points while preventing the Patriots from getting on the scoreboard.
The victory gave Trion a strong start to region competition and provided momentum heading into tonight’s road trip to Bowdon.
The Bulldogs will now face the Red Devils in another important region matchup as they look to continue their winning ways.
Tonight’s game marks Trion’s second consecutive road contest.
WZQZ To Broadcast Trion Game On Radio And Both Games On Facebook
WZQZ FM 99.1 will carry the Trion-Bowdon game live on the radio tonight, with Paul Cavin providing play-by-play commentary and Jeremy Burke serving as analyst.
The Trion broadcast will also stream on Facebook, with Sam Kholer handling camera duties.
Meanwhile, the Chattooga-Dade County game will be available on Facebook, with Chris “Bubba” Wilson calling the action, Steiner Davis providing analysis and Mason Gilreath operating the camera.
Both games will stream live on Facebook, giving local football fans an opportunity to follow either the Indians or Bulldogs.
WZQZ will have coverage of both teams as Friday night high school football continues across Northwest Georgia.
Walker County Commissioners Schedule Special Meeting To Discuss Forensic Audit
The Walker County Board of Commissioners has scheduled a special called meeting for Tuesday, October 20, 2026, to hear a presentation concerning a forensic audit of county government.
The meeting will take place at 6 PM at the Walker County Civic Center, located at 10052 Highway 27 in Rock Spring.
According to the meeting agenda released by Walker County, the primary item of business will be a presentation on the forensic audit, followed by an opportunity for open discussion.
The agenda does not specify the scope of the audit, its findings or who will deliver the presentation.
Walker County officials say the meeting will be open to the public, giving residents an opportunity to attend and hear the presentation firsthand.
The meeting will not be livestreamed. However, county officials say a recording will be made available afterward for residents who are unable to attend.
The agenda also includes an invocation and pledge, a call to order by Chairwoman Teems and confirmation of a quorum before the audit presentation.
Residents who need special assistance to attend the meeting may contact the Walker County Commissioner’s Office at 706-638-1437.
The special called meeting is scheduled for Tuesday evening, October 20, beginning at 6 PM at the Walker County Civic Center in Rock Spring.
Georgia Employment Reaches Record Highs For Ninth Consecutive Month
Georgia’s workforce continued setting records in September, with the state’s labor force and number of employed residents reaching all-time highs for the ninth consecutive month, according to new figures released by the Georgia Department of Labor.
The state’s labor force increased by 13,679 people in September, reaching a record 5,504,015 workers. That represents an increase of more than 73,000 people compared with September 2025.
The number of employed Georgians also reached a record high of 5,325,131, an increase of 10,279 over the previous month and more than 80,000 over the past year.
Georgia’s unemployment rate edged up slightly to 3.3% in September. However, the rate remained one-tenth of a percentage point below September 2025 and nine-tenths of a percentage point below the national unemployment rate.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said the figures demonstrate the continued strength of the state’s workforce and employment opportunities.
“Georgia’s workforce is making history,” Holmes said, pointing to nine consecutive months of record employment and historically low unemployment claims.
Unemployment Claims Reach Lowest Level In More Than 50 Years
One of the most significant developments in the September report was a sharp decline in initial unemployment claims.
Georgia recorded just 15,874 initial unemployment claims during September, a decrease of 953 from August and 3,140 fewer than a year earlier.
According to the Department of Labor, the state had not recorded a monthly claims total that low since April 1974, more than half a century ago.
Despite the record employment figures, the number of unemployed Georgians increased by 3,400 in September to 178,884. That figure was still down by 7,643 compared with the previous year.
Some Industries Add Jobs While Others See Declines
While the number of employed residents increased, Georgia’s total number of payroll jobs declined slightly in September, falling by 500 to 4,983,000.
The largest monthly job gains occurred in local government, which added 3,300 positions, followed by professional and technical services with 1,600 additional jobs.
State government, manufacturing and wholesale trade also reported employment gains.
However, several industries experienced declines. Private educational services lost 1,600 jobs, while health care and social assistance declined by 1,400. Accommodation and food services lost 1,100 positions.
Over the past year, health care and social assistance recorded the largest employment gains, adding 18,900 jobs statewide.
Other industries showing annual growth included local government, manufacturing and administrative support services.
Meanwhile, federal government employment declined by 8,800 jobs over the year, while professional and technical services lost 8,600 positions. Construction employment was down by 4,900 jobs.
Employment Assistance Available To Northwest Georgia Residents
The Georgia Department of Labor continues to provide employment assistance and unemployment insurance services to residents throughout the state, including Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia.
Residents seeking unemployment benefits can contact the Department of Labor at 877-709-8185 or access the agency’s online MyUI Claimant Portal.
Job seekers and employers can also use the Georgia LaborMarket Explorer to review employment trends, available workforce information and regional labor market statistics.
The September report reflects statewide employment conditions. Separate unemployment figures for Chattooga County were not included in the announcement.
Veterans Expected To Receive 3.6% Increase In VA Disability Payments In 2027
Veterans across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia who receive disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs are expected to see an increase in their monthly benefits beginning in January 2027.
The increase follows Wednesday’s announcement by the Social Security Administration that benefits will rise 3.6% in 2027, reflecting the annual cost-of-living adjustment, commonly known as COLA.
VA disability compensation increases are generally tied to the same percentage adjustment used for Social Security benefits. However, the 2027 increase in VA disability compensation still requires congressional approval before the new payment amounts become official.
The adjustment is intended to help veterans and their families keep pace with rising costs for groceries, housing, utilities and other everyday expenses.
How Much More Will Veterans Receive?
Based on the announced 3.6% adjustment, a veteran with a 100% disability rating and no dependents would see monthly compensation increase from $3,938.58 to approximately $4,080.37, an increase of about $141.79 per month.
For a veteran with a 50% disability rating and no dependents, monthly compensation would increase from $1,132.90 to approximately $1,173.68, an increase of $40.78.
Veterans with a 10% disability rating would see payments rise from $180.42 to approximately $186.92 per month.
Those figures are estimates based on current compensation rates and the announced cost-of-living adjustment. The VA has not yet published its official 2027 disability compensation tables.
When Will The Increase Take Effect?
If approved by Congress, the new rates would take effect December 1, 2026, with the higher monthly payments beginning in January 2027.
The increase would apply to eligible veterans receiving disability compensation, with the actual dollar amount depending on their disability rating and qualifying dependents.
Certain benefits for surviving spouses and dependents are also expected to receive cost-of-living adjustments.
The Social Security Administration says its 3.6% increase will affect approximately 76 million Americans receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits. The average Social Security retirement benefit is expected to increase by about $75 per month.
Veterans receiving both Social Security and VA disability compensation may see adjustments to both benefits, depending on their eligibility.
Veterans generally will not need to submit a new disability claim simply to receive the annual cost-of-living increase once it is authorized.
The Department of Veterans Affairs is expected to release official updated compensation rates after the necessary legislation is approved.
Sources:
- Social Security Administration, October 14, 2026
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Disability Compensation Rates
- VA Disability Hub, 2027 Estimated Compensation Tables
Free Breast Cancer Screenings Offered Today At Chattooga County Health Department
The Chattooga County Health Department is hosting a special breast cancer awareness event today, Friday, October 16, offering free breast exams and information about breast cancer screening to eligible women in the community.
The event is scheduled from 8 AM until 1 PM at the Chattooga County Health Department, located at 60 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
The event is intended to help women age 40 and older who are uninsured or underinsured gain access to important breast health services.
Breast cancer remains a serious health concern in Chattooga County. Local health statistics show that four women died from breast cancer in the county during 2025, while 43 deaths were recorded over the past decade
Early detection can make a significant difference in breast cancer treatment and survival. Regular screening can help identify breast cancer before symptoms develop, when treatment may be more effective.
Visitors will be able to receive breast exams if they choose, get assistance completing mammogram paperwork and learn how to schedule a mammogram.
The event will also include goody bags, a limited number of breast cancer awareness T-shirts and light refreshments.
The event is being held as part of October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which emphasizes the importance of regular screenings and early detection.
For additional information, residents can contact the Chattooga County Health Department at 706-857-3471.
Man Arrested Following High-Speed Chase Through Chattooga County
A 60-year-old man was arrested following a high-speed pursuit through Chattooga County after a sheriff’s deputy attempted to stop a vehicle driven by a man reportedly wanted in two other Georgia counties.
According to a Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office arrest report, the incident began on Friday, October 9, 2026, at approximately 10:15 AM, near the intersection of East Halls Valley Road and Mountain View Road.
A Chattooga County deputy spotted a white Hyundai Elantra and recognized the driver as William Riley Brock, 60, who reportedly had outstanding arrest warrants in Floyd and Bartow counties.
The deputy also had information that Brock was driving an unregistered vehicle without a properly displayed license plate.
According to the report, the deputy observed the vehicle accelerating rapidly and producing heavy exhaust smoke. After confirming that the vehicle was traveling at an excessive speed, the deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop.
Instead of stopping, Brock allegedly accelerated and began driving recklessly, crossing into opposing lanes of traffic and disregarding traffic signs.
The pursuit continued along East Halls Valley Road, Halls Valley Drive and Highway 27, where the deputy reported speeds ranging from approximately 80 to 120 miles per hour.
According to the report, Brock continued driving at high speeds through the intersections of Ridgeway Drive and Chattooga Line Road, repeatedly crossing the centerline and traveling on the wrong side of the roadway.
The deputy reported that Brock also failed to stop at several intersections, including the area of Walnut Grove Road and Old Trion Highway.
Additional law enforcement officers responded to assist as the pursuit continued. Officers positioned themselves near an intersection with emergency lights activated and tire-deflation equipment ready for deployment.
Brock was subsequently arrested.
The arrest report lists charges including fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, aggressive driving, reckless driving, speeding, failure to maintain lane, failure to stop at a stop sign, operating a motor vehicle without proper registration and other traffic offenses.
Woman Arrested Following Domestic Dispute On Packer Dairy Road
A 37-year-old woman was arrested following a domestic dispute on Packer Dairy Road in Chattooga County after deputies reported that she became disorderly while emergency medical personnel were evaluating her.
According to a Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office arrest report, deputies responded to 602 Packer Dairy Road on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at approximately 3:18 PM.
Deputies were told that Jasmine Reed, 37, had been involved in an argument with her boyfriend, who reportedly left the area before law enforcement arrived.
Family members expressed concerns that Reed might be intoxicated and requested that emergency medical personnel evaluate her.
Deputies reported that Reed was initially calm and cooperative. EMS personnel arrived and began evaluating her, and Reed walked toward the ambulance.
According to the report, a deputy was speaking with a family member about the eviction process when he heard a loud noise near the ambulance.
The deputy reported finding the ambulance’s rear door open and Reed yelling that she would not go to the hospital and would have to be taken to jail.
Reed allegedly became increasingly belligerent and was placed under arrest.
Deputies reported that she continued yelling and using profanity while being transported to the Chattooga County Jail.
According to the arrest report, Reed also remained uncooperative with jail personnel and refused to answer routine questions.
Reed was charged with disorderly conduct in connection with the incident.
AAA Warns More Than One-Third Of Drivers Fail To Move Over For Roadside Vehicles
With National Slow Down, Move Over Day coming up Saturday, October 17, AAA is reminding Georgia motorists that failing to slow down or change lanes for vehicles stopped along the roadside can have deadly consequences.
New research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows that 36% of drivers fail to move over or slow down when required, despite the overwhelming majority claiming they follow the law.
According to AAA, more than 90% of drivers surveyed said they slowed down or moved over the last time they passed a disabled vehicle, tow truck or police vehicle stopped on the shoulder. However, previous observational research found that only 64% of drivers actually took those precautions when required.
The dangers are significant. AAA reports that more than 2,100 people were struck and killed while stranded or working along roadsides nationwide between 2019 and 2023.
In 2025 alone, AAA responded to more than 30 million roadside service events nationwide. During that year, 15 roadside service providers lost their lives in incidents involving failures to slow down or move over.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters says motorists often believe roadside dangers affect only police officers, firefighters and tow truck operators. However, she points out that anyone experiencing a flat tire, dead battery or mechanical breakdown can suddenly find themselves just feet away from moving traffic.
A recent AAA survey also found that 50% of Georgia drivers identified being struck by another vehicle as their greatest concern if their vehicle became disabled along the roadside.
Georgia’s Move Over Law
Georgia law requires drivers approaching stopped emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility vehicles and highway maintenance vehicles displaying flashing lights to move over one lane when it is safe to do so.
If changing lanes is not possible, drivers must slow down and be prepared to stop.
AAA is encouraging motorists traveling throughout Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia to remain especially alert when approaching flashing lights, hazard lights or vehicles stopped along the shoulder.
Drivers should reduce their speed, move over when possible, avoid distractions and watch carefully for people standing or working near the roadway.
AAA also recommends that motorists experiencing a breakdown move their vehicles as far away from traffic as possible, activate their hazard lights and avoid standing directly in front of or behind their vehicles.
Research from the AAA Foundation found that 63% of fatal crashes involving roadside assistance providers occurred after the striking vehicle had already left the roadway, emphasizing the dangers of distracted, impaired or fatigued driving.
With National Slow Down, Move Over Day approaching Saturday, AAA says the message is simple: Slow down, move over and stay alert. Taking those precautions could save the lives of emergency responders, roadside workers and fellow motorists.
Arrest Report - Thursday - October 15, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, October 15, 2026:
Trion Farmers Market Offering Fresh Produce And Homemade Favorites Today
The Trion Farmers Market is welcoming shoppers today, Thursday, October 15, with a variety of fresh produce, homemade foods and locally prepared favorites.
The market is held at the pavilion near the track field in Trion, just off Simmons Street, giving residents an opportunity to shop locally while supporting area farmers and vendors.
Mountain View Market will be bringing a selection of fresh produce, including tomatoes, squash, okra, cucumbers, cabbage, lettuce and grapes.
Visitors will also find plenty of homemade foods prepared by the market’s popular cooking ladies. This week’s offerings include vegetable beef soup, potato soup, chicken salad, pimento cheese, caramel apples, fried pies, peanut brittle, no-bake cookies, peanut butter cookies and Mexican cornbread.
A variety of homemade canned goods and specialty items will also be available, including jams, jellies, relishes, salsa, zippy, pickled okra, pickled eggs and onions, and Granny Parker Pickles.
With sunny skies and afternoon temperatures expected to reach the upper 80s, Thursday should provide favorable weather for visiting the market.
The Trion Farmers Market offers residents a chance to purchase fresh food, enjoy homemade favorites and support local growers and vendors.
Summer-Like Heat Gives Way To Much Cooler Weather This Weekend
Residents across Chattooga County can expect one more stretch of summer-like temperatures before a strong cold front brings a significant change in the weather this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, Thursday will be sunny and unusually warm, with afternoon temperatures reaching around 88 degrees. Winds will remain light, and humidity levels should stay relatively low. Some patchy morning fog is possible, but it should clear by 10 AM.
Tonight will be clear, with temperatures falling to around 61 degrees.
Friday will bring another sunny and warm day, with highs near 83 degrees. Southwest winds will increase to 5 to 15 mph, with gusts reaching 20 mph ahead of an approaching cold front.
The biggest change will arrive Friday night as a strong cold front pushes through Northwest Georgia. Temperatures will fall sharply into the upper 40s by Saturday morning, accompanied by north winds of 10 to 15 mph and gusts potentially reaching 30 mph.
By Saturday afternoon, temperatures will struggle to reach 62 degrees, a dramatic change from the upper 80s expected Thursday. Gusty north winds could make conditions feel even cooler.
Saturday night will bring mostly clear skies and a low around 41 degrees. Sunday will remain sunny but cool, with a high near 64 degrees and another chilly night in the lower 40s.
The National Weather Service says the cold front is expected to pass through the region with little or no rainfall. Dry conditions are expected to continue throughout the next seven days.
Temperatures will gradually recover next week, with highs near 69 Monday, 71 Tuesday and 75 Wednesday.
The approaching cold front will bring the first significant taste of fall weather in several days, with temperatures dropping nearly 40 degrees between Thursday afternoon and Saturday night.
Georgia EPD Approves Environmental Review Exemption For Summerville Water Treatment Plant Improvements
The Georgia Environmental Protection Division has issued an environmental review determination for improvements to the City of Summerville’s Raccoon Creek Water Treatment Plant, a project designed to address potentially harmful chemicals in the city’s drinking water supply.
The notice, issued Wednesday, October 14, outlines plans to install four granular activated carbon treatment systems at the facility. The new equipment is designed to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, from drinking water and certain discharges from the treatment plant.
PFAS are sometimes called “forever chemicals” because they break down very slowly in the environment. Some PFAS have been linked to health concerns, and federal and state agencies have increased their efforts to reduce exposure through public drinking water systems.
According to the EPD, the proposed improvements would also address water discharged during filter cleaning and sedimentation basin operations before that water is released into Raccoon Creek.
The state agency determined that the project qualifies for a categorical exclusion under Georgia’s environmental review process. This means the improvements can proceed through the funding review process without requiring additional extensive environmental studies, provided applicable requirements are satisfied.
EPD officials determined that the project is not expected to have significant adverse environmental effects. However, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers indicated that streams or wetlands may be present in the project area. The city must coordinate with the Corps to determine whether additional permits or authorizations are necessary.
The determination does not represent final approval of all project requirements.
The public has 30 days from the October 14 notice to submit written comments. After reviewing any comments received, EPD will make a final decision concerning approval of the project planning documents.
Written comments may be submitted to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, Drinking Water Program, Attention Tamika Samaroo, 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SE, Suite 1470A East Tower, Atlanta, Georgia 30334-9000.
The project represents another step toward improving drinking water treatment and addressing PFAS contamination concerns in Summerville’s public water system.
Source: Georgia Environmental Protection Division, October 14, 2026.
Pregnancy Resource Center Of Chattooga County Hosting Community Open House Today
The Pregnancy Resource Center of Chattooga County is inviting the public to an open house today, Thursday, October 15, from 4 PM until 6 PM at its facility in Summerville.
The center is located at 11564 Highway 27, next to the Boys & Girls Club.
The event will give community members an opportunity to tour the facility, meet those involved with the organization, and learn more about the center and what’s new.
Refreshments will be served during the open house, and visitors will have an opportunity to see the facility firsthand.
The Pregnancy Resource Center of Chattooga County provides support and resources for women and families facing pregnancy-related needs.
Organizers encourage residents to stop by during the two-hour event to become better acquainted with the center and its work in the community.
The open house is scheduled for today from 4 PM until 6 PM at 11564 Highway 27 in Summerville.
Georgia Transportation Board To Consider New Rules For School Zone Speed Cameras Today
The Georgia State Transportation Board will meet today at 9 AM in Atlanta to consider adopting updated regulations governing automated speed enforcement cameras in school zones.
The meeting will take place at Georgia Department of Transportation headquarters, located at 600 West Peachtree Street NW.
The board is scheduled to consider final approval of amendments to Georgia DOT’s rules governing permits for school zone speed cameras.
The proposed regulations address how local authorities apply for permits, the information required to demonstrate a need for cameras, and requirements for operating and maintaining the equipment.
The regulations also address circumstances under which Georgia DOT can modify or cancel a camera permit.
The changes are intended to bring the state’s permitting procedures into compliance with legislation approved earlier this year.
That legislation separately establishes a requirement for local voter approval when governments enter into or renew school zone speed camera contracts beginning July 1, 2027.
Today’s meeting will not determine whether voters must approve those cameras. Instead, board members will decide whether to adopt the proposed administrative regulations governing the state’s permitting process.
The Georgia Department of Transportation accepted public comments on the proposed changes through September 21.
The board meeting begins at 9 AM today and can be viewed through the Georgia DOT website.
Sources: Georgia Department of Transportation’s October 15 rulemaking notice; Georgia HB 651; Georgia Code § 40-14-18.
City Of Summerville Reminds Residents To Call 811 Before Digging
The City of Summerville is reminding residents and contractors about the importance of contacting Georgia 811 before beginning any digging or excavation project to help prevent damage to underground utility lines.
The city’s public notice encourages property owners to have underground utilities located and marked before starting work, whether the project involves installing a fence, planting trees, building a deck, or digging trenches.
Underground utility lines can include natural gas, electricity, water, sewer, and telecommunications services. Accidentally striking one of these lines can result in serious injuries, expensive repairs, and interruptions to essential services.
Under Georgia law, anyone planning to excavate must generally contact Georgia 811 at least three business days before beginning work, excluding weekends and legal holidays.
The service is free, and utility companies are notified so their underground facilities can be marked before digging begins.
Residents can request utility markings by dialing 811 or visiting www.Georgia811.com.
Officials emphasize that even relatively small projects on private property can pose risks because underground lines may be located closer to the surface than expected.
Property owners should also be aware that Georgia 811 markings generally cover utilities maintained by participating utility operators. Privately installed lines, such as those serving outdoor lighting or other equipment beyond a utility company’s responsibility, may require a private utility locator.
The City of Summerville encourages residents to plan ahead, allow time for underground utilities to be marked, and follow safe digging practices to protect themselves, their neighbors, and public infrastructure.
Halloween Activities Planned Across Chattooga County With Events In Summerville, Trion, Menlo And Lyerly
Families across Chattooga County will have several opportunities to celebrate Halloween this year, with community events scheduled in Summerville, Trion, Menlo and Lyerly.
Summerville – Saturday, October 31
Summerville Main Street and the Summerville Optimist Club will host Pumpkin Palooza and the annual Halloween Walk on Saturday, October 31, in the East Washington Street Streetscape area and around the historic Summerville Depot.
Pumpkin Palooza will take place from 10:30 AM until 3 PM in the Depot area, featuring food and craft vendors.
The Halloween Walk will run from 10:30 AM until 12:30 PM along the streetscape, providing children with an opportunity to collect candy.
A costume contest will begin at 11:30 AM at the Open Air Stage.
Anyone interested in participating as a Pumpkin Palooza vendor can contact Susan at 706-728-0456. Those wishing to donate candy for the Halloween Walk can contact Cindy at 706-466-9014.
Trion – Saturday, October 31
Trion’s annual Halloween Walk will take place on Saturday, October 31, beginning at 5:30 PM.
The date and time were announced by Trion Police Chief Gilleland.
Menlo – Friday, October 30
The City of Menlo will hold its Halloween Walk on Friday, October 30, from 5 PM until 6:30 PM at Menlo Park.
The event provides an opportunity for local children and families to enjoy Halloween activities in a community setting.
Lyerly – Saturday, October 31
The Lyerly Fire Department will host a Trunk or Treat and Movie Night on Saturday, October 31, at Lyerly Park.
Trunk or Treat activities will take place from 5 PM until 7 PM, with free hot dogs available.
A free outdoor movie showing will begin at 7:30 PM. Families are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for the movie.
Concessions will also be available for purchase.
Anyone interested in setting up a vehicle for Trunk or Treat is welcome to participate.
With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, most Chattooga County communities have scheduled their celebrations for October 31, while Menlo will hold its event the evening before.
Residents are encouraged to watch for additional announcements from their local communities as Halloween approaches.
Two Arrested On Drug Charges Following Traffic Stop In Chattooga County
Two people were arrested on drug charges following a late-night traffic stop in Chattooga County after a deputy observed a vehicle traveling without properly functioning lights.
According to a Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office incident report, a deputy was patrolling West Spring Creek Road near Diamond Lane shortly before midnight on October 7 when he noticed a gray 2012 Nissan Maxima traveling northbound with only one operating taillight. The deputy also reported difficulty seeing the vehicle’s license plate.
The deputy followed the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop in the parking lot of the Valero gas station on Trion-Teloga Road.
The driver was identified as 48-year-old Kimberly Diane Wilson, while the passenger was identified as 61-year-old Arthur Paul Wade.
According to the report, the deputy noticed a strong odor of alcohol coming from Wilson’s breath while speaking with her. Wilson initially told deputies she had consumed one beer approximately two to three hours earlier but later stated she had consumed two to three beers.
A second deputy arrived and conducted field sobriety testing. The report indicates Wilson showed signs of possible impairment during an eye examination. She declined additional balance tests, citing neuropathy, and was unable to successfully complete a roadside breath test.
During the investigation, deputies also spoke with Wade, who was seated in the passenger seat. The deputy reported detecting the odor of marijuana coming from Wade and asked whether he had anything illegal in his possession.
Wade denied having anything illegal and declined a request to search his pockets. He did agree to voluntarily empty his pockets, although the deputy reported that Wade appeared selective about what he removed.
Deputies also discovered that the vehicle’s license plate was registered to a different vehicle and that the Nissan had suspended registration.
Both Wilson and Wade were arrested on October 8.
According to the arrest report, Wilson was charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol, and traffic offenses.
Wade was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance.
Both were booked into the Chattooga County Jail.
The incident report provided by the Sheriff’s Office does not specify the quantities of suspected drugs recovered or explain how the controlled substances were discovered.
Fall Colors Expected To Peak Soon At James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park
Fall is arriving in Northwest Georgia, and James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park near Summerville is preparing for one of the most colorful times of the year.
Park Manager Katy Gramling says fall foliage typically reaches its peak at the park during late October and early November, making the next several weeks an ideal time for visitors to enjoy the changing leaves.
The park has been recognized by Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites as one of the state’s “Hidden Gems” for fall color, highlighting its scenic beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Located in Chattooga County, the 561-acre park features two lakes, hiking trails, picnic areas, camping facilities and cottages. Visitors can enjoy walking along the lakes, fishing or exploring the popular Marble Mine Trail, which leads to an old marble mine and a small waterfall.
The park also provides access to the Pinhoti Trail, making it a popular destination for hikers looking to explore the mountains of Northwest Georgia.
In addition to the changing leaves, the park is preparing for special Halloween activities later this month.
The Friends of James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park will host Halloween Hayrides during the final two weekends of October. Gramling says the hayrides will be family-friendly rather than frightening, providing an opportunity for children and families to enjoy the Halloween season.
Visitors can also follow the changing colors across Georgia through the state’s Leaf Watch 2026 program, which provides information about fall foliage at state parks throughout Georgia.
With cooler temperatures expected to arrive in Chattooga County this weekend, conditions should become more comfortable for hiking and other outdoor activities.
Additional information about park activities and upcoming events is available through the James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park Facebook page and the Georgia State Parks website at gastateparks.org.