Walker County Man Dies In Flash Fire Caused By Spray Foam Insulation
A 38-year-old man died Tuesday morning following a flash fire in Walker County that investigators say was accidentally caused by the application of spray foam insulation inside a small, enclosed building.
Walker County Fire Rescue responded to 116 Alton Terrace Spur in Rossville around 8:25 AM on Tuesday, October 20, after a neighbor reported a fire.
When firefighters arrived, they found heavy flames coming from a small outbuilding near the road. After extinguishing the fire, crews discovered the body of 38-year-old Michael James Carney inside the structure.
A neighbor told investigators that Carney had entered the building shortly before the fire occurred.
Walker County Fire Marshal Jason Cruise said investigators determined that the fire was accidental and resulted from the application of spray foam insulation in an enclosed space without adequate ventilation.
According to Cruise, flammable vapors accumulated inside the building and were ignited by an undetermined heat source, resulting in a sudden and violent flash fire.
Cruise emphasized that the incident was a flash fire rather than an explosion. The rapid ignition of the accumulated vapors created extremely dangerous conditions inside the structure.
The incident marks Walker County’s first fire-related fatality of 2026.
An autopsy will be conducted to determine Carney’s exact cause of death.
Chattooga County Advance Voting Turnout Reaches 11.2 Percent
Advance voting continues in Chattooga County for the November 3 general election, with more than 1,700 residents already casting ballots.
According to the latest figures from the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office, 1,755 voters had cast ballots as of October 21, representing 11.2 percent of the county’s 15,617 active registered voters.
Absentee ballot figures show that 184 ballots have been issued, with 96 accepted and 88 still outstanding as of October 21.
Advance voting continues through Friday, October 30, at the Chattooga County Registrar’s Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville. All advance voting in Chattooga County takes place at this location.
Remaining Advance Voting Hours:
- Thursday and Friday, October 22–23: 8:30 AM–5 PM
- Saturday, October 24: 9 AM–5 PM
- Monday through Friday, October 26–30: 8:30 AM–6 PM
Voters must present an acceptable photo ID when voting in person.
The November 3 ballot includes several local questions, including proposed homestead property tax exemptions, renewal of the education sales tax and a bond referendum for the Town of Trion.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Network Problems Disrupt Services At Chattooga County Tax Commissioner's Office
The Chattooga County Tax Commissioner’s Office is experiencing network problems that are preventing employees from processing motor vehicle transactions and credit card payments.
Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton announced Wednesday that the office is dealing with technical difficulties and does not expect to be operating at full capacity until late Thursday morning, October 22.
According to Hampton, the network issues have temporarily halted all motor vehicle transactions and credit card processing. The office’s website also appears to be down.
Hampton said she will provide an update once the problems have been resolved and normal services can resume.
Residents planning to visit the Tax Commissioner’s Office are encouraged to call ahead to determine whether the services they need are available.
The office can be reached at 706-857-0703.
Arrest Report - Wednesday - October 21, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, October 21, 2026:
Dry Weather Pattern Expected To Continue Across Northwest Georgia
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect an extended stretch of sunny skies and mild afternoon temperatures, but the continued lack of rainfall could lead to worsening drought conditions.
According to the National Weather Service, high pressure will remain firmly in control of the region’s weather through the weekend and into early next week, keeping rain chances near zero.
Wednesday will bring sunny skies and a high near 75 degrees, followed by clear skies and an overnight low around 48. Thursday and Friday will remain sunny, with highs near 74 degrees and nighttime temperatures dipping into the middle 40s.
The weekend will bring slightly cooler temperatures, with highs near 71 degrees Saturday and Sunday. Overnight lows could fall into the lower 40s, including a low near 42 Saturday night.
Forecasters expect temperatures to rebound into the middle 70s early next week, with continued dry conditions.
The National Weather Service says the persistent lack of precipitation is unlikely to help existing drought conditions across North Georgia. Low afternoon humidity levels could also increase fire weather concerns, particularly in areas where vegetation has become increasingly dry.
There is currently little indication of meaningful rainfall through at least Tuesday of next week.
Eleven Chattooga County Students Head To National FFA Convention In Indianapolis
Eleven students from Summerville Middle School and Chattooga High School are on their way to Indianapolis, Indiana, to attend the 99th National FFA Convention and Expo.
The students will join thousands of FFA members from across the country for the annual event, which begins Wednesday, October 21, and continues through Saturday, October 24.
The National FFA Organization expects more than 70,000 students, agricultural educators, advisors and supporters to attend this year’s convention.
The four-day event will feature leadership workshops, educational sessions, agricultural career exhibits, competitions and opportunities for students to connect with fellow FFA members from across the United States.
Students will also have opportunities to explore more than 350 career paths in agriculture and related industries through the National FFA Expo.
The convention is one of the largest annual gatherings of agricultural education students in the country, providing opportunities to develop leadership skills, learn about agricultural careers and celebrate achievements in FFA programs.
The eleven students representing Summerville Middle School and Chattooga High School will have an opportunity to bring new experiences and ideas back to their local FFA chapters.
Medicare Enrollment Period Brings Warning About Scams Targeting Seniors
With Medicare’s annual open enrollment period underway, federal officials are warning senior citizens to be on the lookout for scams involving health insurance coverage.
The Federal Trade Commission says scammers are using misleading websites, sponsored internet search results, and official-looking Medicare logos to trick people into providing personal information or signing up for questionable insurance plans.
Some fraudulent websites appear to offer legitimate Medicare enrollment assistance but may instead collect sensitive information or direct consumers toward plans that do not provide the coverage they expect.
Scammers may also contact seniors by telephone, claiming they need to replace their Medicare cards or provide personal information to avoid losing their benefits.
Medicare’s annual open enrollment period began October 15 and continues through December 7. During this time, eligible beneficiaries can review their coverage and make changes for the coming year.
Officials remind residents that Medicare representatives will not call unexpectedly to demand personal information or threaten to cancel coverage unless immediate action is taken.
Chattooga County residents are encouraged to use the official Medicare website at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to verify information about their coverage.
Anyone receiving a suspicious call or message should avoid providing their Medicare number, Social Security number, or banking information.
Salvation Army Angel Tree Registration Event Set For October 27
The Salvation Army in Rome will hold a special Angel Tree registration event on Tuesday, October 27, giving qualifying families and senior citizens an opportunity to apply for Christmas assistance.
The registration event will take place from 1 PM until 3 PM at Dirt Pour Coffee and Cafe.
Cristina Tilley with the Salvation Army in Rome says the Angel Tree program is available to children under the age of 12 whose parents’ income does not exceed 130 percent of the federal poverty level. Senior citizens ages 65 and older may also qualify for assistance.
Parents registering children will need to bring a photo ID, proof of income for both parents, proof of address, and birth certificates for all qualifying children.
Senior citizens applying for assistance will need to provide identification, proof of income, and proof of address.
The Angel Tree program helps provide Christmas gifts to children and seniors in need during the holiday season.
Those interested in receiving assistance are encouraged to have all required documents ready when they arrive for registration on October 27.
Trion Town Council To Hold Workshop And Regular Meeting Thursday
The Town of Trion will hold its regular workshop and Town Council meeting Thursday evening, October 22, at Trion Town Hall.
According to an official meeting notice issued by Mayor Mickey McGraw, the workshop will begin at 6 PM in the Town Hall Conference Room, with the regular Town Council meeting immediately following.
The meeting provides an opportunity for town leaders to discuss municipal business and address matters affecting the community.
The notice, dated October 16, was distributed to Town Council members and local news media by the mayor’s office.
Residents who have questions or comments about the upcoming meeting can contact Mayor McGraw or the Trion Town Hall office at 706-734-2332 to request additional information.
Northwest Georgia Business Summit Set For November 5 In Cartersville
Business owners and entrepreneurs from across Northwest Georgia will have an opportunity to learn new strategies, make connections, and explore ways to grow their businesses during the 2026 Northwest Georgia Business Summit in Cartersville.
The event, organized by the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center, is scheduled for Thursday, November 5, from 9 AM until 3 PM at the Tellus Science Museum, located at 100 Tellus Drive in Cartersville.
The summit is designed to help business owners and leaders prepare for future opportunities while addressing challenges facing today’s businesses.
Participants will hear from keynote speakers and have opportunities to network with other business professionals throughout the region.
Topics will include leadership and business strategy, artificial intelligence and innovation, branding and marketing, workplace culture, strategic growth, and adapting to changing business conditions.
Organizers say the goal is to provide business owners with fresh perspectives, practical information, and strategies they can put to work in their own businesses.
Registration is $99 per person, but members of participating chambers of commerce can register for $75 by using the promotional code NWGA25 at checkout.
The event is supported by the Cartersville-Bartow Chamber, the Cartersville Museum City, and Bank OZK.
Business owners interested in attending can register online at ugasbdc.training/rom/0839-001.
For additional information, contact Mary Kate Wheeler at the UGA Small Business Development Center in Rome at 706-622-2006.
Low-Cost Spay And Neuter Transport Scheduled For November 2 In Rome
Animal Advocates of Chattooga County is sharing information about an upcoming spay and neuter transport opportunity for area pet owners through My Kids Have Paws Veterinary Services.
The next transport is scheduled for Monday, November 2, 2026, with drop-off and pickup at the Elder’s Ace Hardware Shopping Center, next to Red Lobster, at 610 Shorter Avenue Northwest in Rome.
Pet owners should arrive for drop-off between 7 and 7:15 AM. Return times will vary, and participants will receive a text message when the transport is headed back to Rome.
As of the organization’s announcement, appointments were available for 16 male cats, eight female cats, and one female dog.
Pet owners interested in scheduling an appointment should call 706-671-1104 and select option 4 to speak with the scheduling department.
A $41 deposit is required when making an appointment and will be applied toward the cost of the surgery. Chattooga County residents will receive $20 of that deposit back. Organizers emphasize that the deposit is not the full cost of the spay or neuter procedure.
Spaying and neutering pets can help reduce unwanted litters and the number of homeless animals in local communities.
Appointments are limited, and pet owners are encouraged to contact My Kids Have Paws Veterinary Services to reserve an available opening.
Walker County Stocking Full Of Love Toy Store Applications Open November 1
The Al Millard Memorial Stocking Full of Love program in Walker County is preparing to open applications for its 2026 Christmas Toy Store, which provides holiday assistance to children and families in need.
Applications will be accepted beginning Sunday, November 1, through Monday, November 30, with no applications accepted after the deadline.
Organizers say the online application link will be posted on the program’s Facebook page on the evening of Saturday, October 31.
To qualify, applicants must be Walker County residents and have legal custody or guardianship of the children for whom they are requesting assistance. The parent or guardian must complete the application, and only one application per family will be accepted.
Applications must include each child’s name, age, and Social Security number. Organizers warn that incomplete or incorrect information could delay processing or result in an application being denied.
Applicants must also provide a working telephone number and email address. Acceptance letters will be sent by email from stockingfulloflove@gmail.com, and families are encouraged to check their spam or junk folders.
Families approved for assistance will be required to provide proof of Walker County residency before entering the Christmas Toy Store. Required documentation includes a photo ID and a piece of mail addressed to the applicant at their Walker County address.
Organizers emphasize that residency requirements will be strictly enforced this year, and families without the proper documentation will not be permitted to shop.
The Al Millard Memorial Stocking Full of Love program has helped provide Christmas gifts to children in Walker County for many years, relying on community support to make the holidays brighter for local families.
Residents can find application information and updates on the Al Millard Memorial Stocking Full of Love of Walker County Facebook page.
American Red Cross Assists 13 People Following Chattoogaville House Fire
The American Red Cross says volunteers from its Northwest Georgia Chapter responded to the devastating house fire in the Chattoogaville community over the weekend, providing emergency assistance to a family of 13 people, including 11 children.
The fire occurred late Saturday night at a residence on Rowlls Road in Chattoogaville, destroying the home belonging to Jimbo and LaRita Burke, who are foster parents caring for 11 children.
According to a statement released by the American Red Cross, volunteers with the organization’s Disaster Action Team responded Sunday morning to help the family begin recovering from the loss.
The Red Cross provided direct financial assistance and recovery planning to help the family meet immediate needs following the fire.
As WZQZ News previously reported, firefighters from Chattoogaville, Holland, Lyerly and Hays responded to the blaze. The home was a total loss, along with the family’s vehicles and personal belongings. Everyone escaped safely.
Community members have also organized donation efforts to help the family replace clothing, shoes, school supplies, diapers and other necessities.
Donations are being collected at The Well in Summerville, located in the former Son Rise Church building behind the Chattooga County Courthouse. Anyone wishing to help can contact April at 706-331-1963.
The American Red Cross says its volunteers respond to disasters throughout the region, with house fires accounting for the majority of emergency responses.
Father's Heart Cafe Launches Christmas Toy Drive Across Chattooga County
The Father’s Heart Cafe is working to make Christmas a little brighter for children in Chattooga County with a community-wide Christmas toy drive.
The organization announced Monday that it has already delivered and placed five toy donation boxes at businesses throughout the county, giving residents several convenient locations to contribute gifts for children this holiday season.
Businesses participating in the effort include Pine Ridge Outdoor Supply, The Great Awakening Coffee Company, and local Dollar General stores.
Residents are encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys suitable for children of all ages. Donations can be placed directly into the collection boxes at participating businesses.
The Father’s Heart Cafe is also inviting additional local businesses to participate in the Christmas toy drive by hosting donation boxes at their locations. Business owners interested in helping can contact the organization for more information.
Organizers say the goal is to bring the community together to help make Christmas special for local children who might otherwise go without gifts.
The Father’s Heart Cafe expressed appreciation to the businesses already participating and to residents who are helping support the effort.
Northwest Georgia Center For Independent Living To Celebrate New Location With Halloween Open House
The Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living (NWGACIL) is inviting the community to celebrate its new location in downtown Rome with a special Halloween-themed open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony next week.
The event is scheduled for Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 1 PM until 4 PM at the organization’s new offices, located at 800 Broad Street, Suite 210, in Rome.
The celebration will give residents an opportunity to tour the new facility, meet members of the organization, and learn more about the services and resources available to individuals with disabilities throughout Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County.
The Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living works to promote independence, inclusion, and opportunities for people with disabilities, helping individuals become more active and engaged in their communities.
Organizers say everyone is welcome to attend the open house, which will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony along with food and refreshments.
The Halloween-themed celebration carries the message, “It’s Just a Bunch of Possibilities,” reflecting the organization’s commitment to creating brighter futures and encouraging greater independence.
Residents interested in learning more about the organization or the upcoming event can visit nwgacil.org or call 706-314-0008.
Summerville Steam Special Chili And Brunswick Stew Cook-Off Set For Saturday
The annual Summerville Steam Special Chili and Brunswick Stew Cook-Off is coming to the historic Summerville Depot this Saturday, October 24, bringing a day of food, friendly competition, entertainment and railroad history.
The event, sponsored by Summerville Main Street, will take place from 10 AM until 3 PM, with free admission for the public.
Ten amateur cooking teams will compete for cash prizes, trophies and bragging rights, preparing their favorite chili and Brunswick stew recipes. Visitors will have an opportunity to sample the entries and vote for their favorites in the People’s Choice competition.
Tasting wristbands will be available for $5 beginning at 10 AM and continuing until 2 PM, or until sold out. Visitors can also vote for their favorite team theme and spirit, with additional votes in that category available for $1 each.
This year’s competing teams include Alley Cats BBQ, Chill-N-Grill, Up N Smoke’s Haunted House, Old Fashioned Western Chili & Stew, Gaylesville First Baptist Church’s Country Pumpkins, Thank A Farmer, Possum Drool Stew, Pot of Gold, Purple Haze and Quack Attack.
In addition to the cooking competition, the event will feature craft and dessert vendors, music and indoor dining in the Depot Freight Room. Competing teams will also have food available for purchase.
Another highlight will be the scheduled arrival of a Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum steam train at 1 PM. Visitors will have an opportunity to see the historic Joe Robert Norton Turntable, which is used to turn steam locomotives at the Summerville Depot.
Train excursion tickets are available separately through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum at www.tvrail.com.
The Summerville Steam Special Chili and Brunswick Stew Cook-Off takes place Saturday, October 24, from 10 AM until 3 PM at the Summerville Depot.
Man Dies Following Explosion And Structure Fire In Walker County
A 38-year-old man died Tuesday morning following an explosion and structure fire in Walker County.
Walker County Fire Rescue responded to 116 Alton Terrace Spur around 8:25 AM Tuesday after a neighbor reported a fire at the location.
When firefighters arrived, they found heavy flames coming from a small outbuilding near the road. After extinguishing the fire, crews discovered the body of a man inside the structure.
According to investigators, a neighbor reported seeing the man enter the building shortly before the explosion occurred.
Authorities are withholding the victim’s name pending positive identification and notification of his next of kin.
The incident marks Walker County’s first fire-related fatality of 2026.
The Walker County Fire Marshal’s Office continues to investigate what caused the explosion and resulting fire. Investigators have ruled out foul play.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - October 20, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, October 20, 2026:
Sunny Skies And Dry Fall Weather Continue Across Chattooga County Through The Weekend
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can look forward to an extended stretch of sunny skies, comfortable afternoon temperatures, and cool nights as dry fall weather continues through the upcoming weekend. Forecasters with the National Weather Service say there is little chance of rainfall over the next several days.
Today, sunshine will dominate the forecast, with afternoon temperatures reaching around 75 degrees. Winds will be light, becoming calm during the morning hours. Tonight will be clear and cool, with an overnight low near 47 degrees.
Wednesday will bring another beautiful fall day, with sunny skies and a high near 77. Wednesday night will remain clear, with temperatures dropping to around 49 degrees. Thursday will be sunny with a high near 76, although north winds could gust as high as 15 miles per hour. Friday will feature more sunshine and a high near 75.
A slightly cooler air mass is expected to move into the region over the weekend. Saturday will be sunny with a high near 71, followed by a clear and chilly Saturday night with temperatures falling to around 44 degrees. Sunday will bring more sunshine and a high near 72.
Looking ahead to Monday, mostly sunny skies are expected, with temperatures climbing back into the middle 70s.
While the pleasant weather will be ideal for outdoor activities, forecasters are warning that the prolonged dry conditions could increase the danger of wildfires. Afternoon humidity levels are expected to fall near critical thresholds, making dry vegetation more susceptible to catching fire. Residents should exercise caution with outdoor burning and check with local authorities about burn permits and restrictions.
The National Weather Service says no significant rainfall is expected through the forecast period, and overnight temperatures should remain warm enough to prevent widespread frost.
Trion Lady Bulldogs Advance To Elite Eight In State Softball Playoffs
The Trion High School Lady Bulldogs softball team is headed to Columbus after securing a spot in the Elite Eight of the Georgia High School Association Class A state playoffs.
The Lady Bulldogs punched their ticket to the next round Monday evening with a pair of victories over Taylor County, winning the opening game 3-0 before taking the second game 5-4.
The two victories completed a sweep of the second-round playoff series and earned Trion a place among the final eight teams competing for the Class A state championship.
Trion entered the second round after sweeping Atkinson County in the opening round of the playoffs on October 12. The Lady Bulldogs defeated Atkinson County 11-1 and 17-5 to advance.
The team will now travel to Columbus for the Elite Eight tournament, scheduled for October 28-31, where the remaining teams will compete for a state championship.
The Trion High School Softball program celebrated the accomplishment Monday night, announcing that the Lady Dawgs were officially Columbus bound.