A high-speed chase originating near Hays State Prison Saturday morning resulted in a serious injury accident at the intersection of Highway 27 and Central Avenue. According to Sheriff Mark A. Schrader, Chattooga County deputies were alerted to a possible contraband drop near the prison at approximately 7:00 AM. Corporal Jared Wilks responded and initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle believed to be involved. “As Cpl. Wilks approached the out-of-county vehicle, the driver and passenger exhibited extreme nervousness,” stated Sheriff Schrader. “Upon requesting the driver to step out of the vehicle, the driver sped away, initiating a pursuit.” Cpl. Wilks pursued the vehicle north on Highway 27 through Trion. The suspect vehicle then made an abrupt U-turn near Dixie Fibers and headed south on Highway 27. Preliminary investigation indicates that the fleeing vehicle ran a red light at the intersection of Highway 27 and Central Avenue, colliding with another vehicle attempting to enter the highway from Central Avenue. All three individuals involved in the accident were injured. The driver of the vehicle struck by the suspect was transported to the emergency room. The driver and passenger of the fleeing vehicle were also transported for medical treatment. Sheriff Schrader urges the community to keep the driver of the struck vehicle and their family in their thoughts and prayers. A host of charges are pending against the fleeing suspects, who authorities believe are both on probation in the metro Atlanta area. These charges are expected to include serious injury by motor vehicle.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, May 24, 2025:

Budding anglers under the age of 16 are invited to cast their lines at the annual Georgia Highlands College (GHC) Youth Fishing Rodeo on Saturday, June 14th, 2025. The free event, held at the scenic Paris Lake on the Floyd Campus in Rome, promises a morning of fishing fun and exciting prizes.

The fishing kicks off at 8:30 AM, with the final weigh-in for prize eligibility concluding at 11:30 AM. Participants will compete for the biggest catch in four age categories: 5 and under, 6-8, 9-11, and 12-15. In the event of a tie, the first fish weighed will take home the top prize. For those without their own equipment, free loaner rods and reels will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Beyond the thrill of the catch, the rodeo will also feature other free kids activities, ensuring a fun-filled morning for all. Food will be available for purchase. Adding to the excitement, a raffle will be held for a chance to win great prizes. Attendees are also encouraged to keep an eye out for a specially tagged blue and orange fish!

Organizers remind participants that while parents and guardians can assist young children, they should not actively fish on their behalf. All anglers must adhere to applicable State and Federal laws.

A full list of rules, which are subject to change at the discretion of Rodeo officials, can be found on site. Prize winners will be announced at the main pavilion at 11:40 AM. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the joy of fishing and potentially reel in some fantastic prizes! Bring your family and friends for a memorable day at the Georgia Highlands College Youth Fishing Rodeo.

On Wednesday of this week, Summerville Police were called to the Ingles Supermarket parking lot after several witnesses noticed a man and woman causing a disturbance.  According to police, witnesses said that they were concerned about the safety of those involved after they observed 33-year-old Devan Buford Smith of Cartersville and 33-year-old Stephanie Smith of Canton arguing and acting aggressively towards each other.  Police said that witnesses confirmed that while the two were arguing, the female subject “got in the face” of the male subject and knocked his glasses off of his face.  Both Devan Smith and Stephanie Smith were arrested and transported to the Chattooga County Jail on charges of disorderly conduct.

With the heat of summer on the way, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Peachtree City, Georgia  is issuing a critical warning about the dangers of Pediatric Vehicular Heatstroke (PVH), reminding the public that leaving a child, disabled person, or pet locked in a car is never safe – regardless of the season. “It can happen to anyone,” warns the NWS. “Mom, Dad, Grandparent, Sitter… anyone can be affected by this tragedy.” The NWS emphasizes that 100% of hot car child deaths are preventable.

According to data spanning from 1998 to 2022, an average of 38 children die each year from heatstroke in vehicles. This translates to roughly two deaths per week during the summer months. The total PVH deaths since 1998 are 1,011. Tragically, statistics reveal that in a large percentage of cases (52%), the child was simply forgotten in the vehicle. Another 25% of deaths occur when children gain access to unlocked vehicles and become trapped. Even on seemingly mild days, the interior temperature of a car can quickly soar to dangerous levels, potentially exceeding 150°F and rising 50° higher than the outside temperature within 30 minutes. A child can die in as little as 10 minutes under these conditions.

The NWS urges all drivers to take the following precautions:

Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even for a minute.

Always check the backseat before locking your car.

Leave your wallet, purse, or cell phone in the backseat as a reminder.

Keep vehicles locked and keys out of reach of children.

Make arrangements with your childcare provider to call you if your child is absent.

If you see a child alone in a vehicle, call 9-1-1 immediately.

The message is clear: vigilance and awareness are critical to preventing these heartbreaking tragedies. For more information and resources on preventing pediatric vehicular heatstroke, visit NoHeatstroke.org.

The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) announced its April 2025 unemployment data on Thursday of this week, showing mixed results for Northwest Georgia. The overall unemployment rate is low at 2. 9%, but Chattooga County is struggling with the highest rate in the area. Chattooga County has seen a concerning rise in initial unemployment claims, with 119 claims last month, a jump of 79 from the month before.

Across the area, Floyd County has a 3.2% unemployment rate; Gordon County 2.8%; Dade 2.7%; Walker 2.8%; Whitfield 3.2%; Catoosa 2.7%.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes expressed hope for the state, noting that unemployment rates dropped in every region. She emphasized the importance of connecting Georgians with jobs for stability and economic growth. The GDOL will monitor the situation in Chattooga County and aims to help residents find job opportunities, encouraging local officials to work together to tackle workforce challenges.

The Friends of Sloppy Floyd State Park will be hosting a homemade ice cream sale today at the park in Summerville.  Come out and enjoy a variety of flavors of delicious homemade ice cream for just $3 a cup.  Credit cards are accepted, and a $5 park pass is required to park.  The ice cream sale is happening today from Noon until 3 PM.  You’ll find the ice cream sale next to the visitor’s center at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park today.

A 59-year-old Summerville man was arrested last Saturday after he was accused of striking a woman at his Sixth Avenue residence.  Summerville Police say that Freddie Lee Newton III allegedly struck the victim on the chin.  When police arrived on the scene, they say that Newton was “being uncooperative and a nuisance” and was heavily intoxicated.  Newton was arrested and taken to the Chattooga County Jail on charges of disorderly conduct.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, May 23, 2025:

A Summerville woman, identified as 34-year-old Tamra Winn, was arrested on Wednesday of this week following an alleged assault on her mother using a metal rod. Summerville Police Department officers responded to a call reporting an assault at a residence located at 625 NW Congress Street. While en route, officers encountered a white female, later identified as Winn, walking away from the reported address. Upon arrival at the residence, officers found Winn’s mother sitting on her front porch. The victim stated that Winn had entered her room brandishing a metal rod and accused her of being responsible for a motorcycle accident. According to the victim, Winn presented the rod as supposed evidence. The situation escalated, with Winn allegedly holding her mother down by the wrist, resulting in bruising. A Summerville Police officer was dispatched to locate and apprehend Winn. Shortly after, the officer confirmed Winn’s location and was instructed to take her into custody. Winn was informed of the charges against her, and her belongings were returned to her mother. Winn was subsequently transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident.

Chattooga County students interested in agriculture and animal husbandry are encouraged to sign up for the Chattooga County Young Farmers annual Pig Project. The deadline to apply is today, May 23, 2025. For a participation fee of $100, students will receive two piglets to raise and care for throughout the summer and fall. This hands-on project provides invaluable experience in animal management, responsibility, and the agricultural process. Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their hard work at the Chattooga County Agricultural Fair in August during a special preview show. The pigs will then be judged and auctioned off at a final show and auction held in November. This event provides students with the opportunity to earn proceeds from their efforts and learn about the agricultural marketplace. Space is limited based on the availability of pigs, and preference will be given to students involved in 4-H and FFA programs. Interested students are encouraged to apply quickly. For more information and application details, contact Chattooga Young Farmer Director Lauren Jarrett at ljarrett@chattooga.k12.ga.us.

Local firefighters from multiple stations responded to a tractor fire on Silverhill Road Thursday evening. At approximately 5:48 PM, firefighters from the Gore and Holland Fire Departments were dispatched to 3076 Silver Hill Road following reports of a tractor ablaze. Upon arrival, the first fire unit confirmed a fully involved tractor fire with a round baler engulfed in flames by over 90%. The fire had also spread to the surrounding field and several round bales. Due to the escalating situation, the alarm was upgraded, bringing in additional resources from the Subligna Fire Department. Fire crews were alerted that the tractor operator had sustained burn injuries, prompting the dispatch of Floyd Atrium EMS to the scene. Firefighters successfully extinguished the original equipment fire and brought the extensions in the field under control. However, Fire Command reported that the tractor and hay baler were a total loss. In addition to Gore, Holland and Subligna Fire Departments and AtriumHealth Floyd EMS, the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene. All units were back in service by 7:02 PM.

The City of Summerville is now accepting applications for a Water & Sewer Maintenance Worker. This role will be responsible for assisting in the construction, repair, and maintenance of the city’s water and wastewater systems. Key responsibilities include installing sewer mains and laterals, installing new water mains, service lines, and meters, locating and repairing leaks, and maintaining fire hydrants. The successful candidate will also be responsible for clearing blocked sewer lines, repairing construction cuts, operating hand and power tools, and maintaining equipment. Traffic control at work sites will also be a key duty. The position requires significant physical exertion, including standing, walking, bending, and lifting. Work is primarily performed outdoors, potentially in various weather conditions, and involves exposure to dust, dirt, grease, and machinery. Applicants must possess a High School Diploma or equivalent experience and have sufficient experience to understand the principles related to the major duties of the position, typically gained through an apprenticeship/internship or similar experience. A valid Georgia driver’s license is also required. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply immediately. Detailed job descriptions and application instructions can be found on the City of Summerville website: HERE

As the busy summer travel season kicks off with the Memorial Day holiday, the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding motorists to prioritize safety and plan their trips carefully. Troopers and officers will be conducting high-visibility patrols on interstates, state routes, and local streets throughout the long weekend, focusing on impaired driving and other traffic violations that could lead to accidents. The 78-hour holiday travel period begins this evening at 6 PM and concludes on Monday, May 26th, at 11:59 PM.

“We want everyone to enjoy this holiday weekend with family and friends by focusing on your driving behavior and minimizing distractions that could lead to serious or even fatal consequences,” stated Colonel William W. Hitchens, III, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety. Last year’s Memorial Day holiday saw Georgia State Patrol (GSP) Troopers issuing over 14,000 citations, making over 500 DUI arrests, and investigating over 500 crashes, resulting in over 250 injuries and eight fatalities. The total number of fatalities investigated by GSP and local law enforcement reached eleven. The DPS urges drivers to be vigilant, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

With a projected surge in travelers this year, drivers should expect heavier traffic congestion. AAA estimates that 87% of Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home by car this Memorial Day weekend, marking the highest travel volume since 2005. Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time for their journeys, and prioritize safe driving practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day holiday weekend.

Graduation exercises will be held this evening for the Chattooga High School Class of 2025.  Chattooga County School Supt. Michelle Helie released the following information concerning the event:

• Weather Monitoring: School administrators will track the forecast closely throughout the week.
• Decision Deadline: If weather conditions appear unfavorable for an outdoor ceremony, we will announce a change to indoors with limited seating by 12:00 p.m. on Friday. Each graduate will receive tickets for indoor viewing on Thursday.
• Outdoor Seating: Should the ceremony remain outside, seating is unlimited, and no tickets are required.
• Live Stream: Whether the event is held indoors or outdoors, the entire ceremony will be live-streamed so that friends and family near and far can join the celebration.
  • YouTube:
    https://youtube.com/live/Pj2RhZO4YSQ?feature=share
    Facebook:
    2025 Chattooga High School Graduation | Facebook

In a sobering “State of the County” address delivered yesterday, Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen outlined a series of significant financial and record-keeping issues discovered within the county government since he took office 120 days ago. Allen’s address, released from his office in Summerville, detailed unresolved bank reconciliations dating back to mid-2024, incomplete general ledger entries, and a failure to enter the 2023 audit closing entries.

“Upon taking office, one of the first issues we encountered was the state of our financial records,” Allen stated. “To our surprise, our accounts had not been updated and were in disarray.” The commissioner highlighted several key areas of concern, including incomplete grant reporting, outstanding sales tax payments, and a backlog of unpaid bills stretching as far back as 2023. He also noted deficiencies in the maintenance of official county records, including incomplete contracts. Allen revealed that a third-party accounting firm has been engaged to update the 2023 and 2024 financial records to ensure transparency and stability.

More alarmingly, an audit uncovered potential fraudulent activity involving county contractors and vendors. “Disturbingly, some had been paid amounts exceeding their bid, while others had received payments without ever providing services,” Allen said. “As a result, we have turned over all findings to the Sheriff’s Department to be investigated for potential criminal activity.” Adding to the concerns, Allen’s office discovered that a government-issued laptop belonging to the former commissioner had been wiped clean. Experts were able to recover crucial records from the device, which will now be turned over to law enforcement for review.

Despite the challenges, Commissioner Allen emphasized his commitment to accountability and ethical governance. “This administration stands unwavering in its promise to lead with transparency, responsibility, and diligence. We are actively addressing past mismanagement while laying a strong foundation for a more efficient, ethical county government,” he said. Allen concluded his address by thanking residents, county employees, and local officials for their support. He vowed to work together to build a future defined by integrity, accountability, and progress.

Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader has said that he turned over the findings to the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney, who notified the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.  The GBI is currently investigating the allegations.

Residents of Northwest Georgia will enjoy drier and cooler weather today and Friday, following a cold front that has brought northwesterly winds. These changes result in mostly clear skies and significantly lower humidity levels. The National Weather Service mentions a slight chance of isolated showers in far northern Georgia this morning due to a weak disturbance in the upper atmosphere, but it is expected to have little impact as it moves out by the afternoon. Dewpoints will drop into the 50s and even 40s in higher areas, providing relief from the recent humidity. Morning temperatures will be in the mid-50s to low 60s, while daytime highs will reach the 70s across our area. Expect gusty winds between 10-15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. Similar weather is anticipated for Friday, but winds will be lighter. Looking ahead, the weekend and early next week should be calm with a slow increase in temperatures, though isolated thunderstorms may occur in the north. Forecasters are also watching for potential widespread thunderstorms next week as a system approaches, though details on timing and severity are uncertain.