Arrest Report - Sunday - July 26, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, July 26, 2026:
Heat And Sunshine Return To Northwest Georgia This Week
After a few lingering morning showers, Northwest Georgia is in for a stretch of hotter and drier weather as temperatures climb back into the 90s through much of the coming week.
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms remains early this morning, mainly before 8 a.m., but skies will gradually become mostly sunny as a cold front pushes east. Afternoon highs will reach around 91 degrees, with heat index values approaching 99 degrees. Winds will remain light, becoming northwest around 5 mph during the afternoon.
Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low near 72 degrees.
Monday brings mostly sunny skies and another hot afternoon, with highs around 93 degrees and heat index values reaching 101 degrees. Only a 20 percent chance of a late-day shower or thunderstorm is expected after 3 p.m., although forecasters are watching for the possibility of a weakening line of storms approaching from Tennessee. If those storms hold together, they could produce damaging wind gusts.
Tuesday is expected to be the hottest day of the week, with sunny skies and highs near 95 degrees. Heat index values across portions of Georgia could climb between 100 and 108 degrees, making heat safety especially important for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
A weak cold front is expected to move through Wednesday, bringing slightly cooler and less humid air for the second half of the week. High temperatures will still reach the upper 80s to lower 90s through Friday, but lower humidity will make conditions more comfortable. Rain chances remain low until another slight chance of showers returns next weekend.
Highland Avenue Paving To Continue This Week In Summerville
Motorists traveling through Summerville should expect delays this week as paving work continues on Highland Avenue.
The City of Summerville announced that road paving and infrastructure improvements will take place Monday, July 27, through Friday, July 31, along Highland Avenue between Third Street and Sixth Avenue.
Construction crews will be working each day from 8:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. During those hours, drivers should expect temporary traffic delays in and around the work zone.
City officials encourage motorists to allow extra travel time, use alternate routes when possible and exercise caution while traveling through the area to help keep both workers and drivers safe.
The paving project is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to maintain and improve local streets and infrastructure
Oak Hill And The Martha Berry Museum To Host Free Family Morning
Oak Hill and The Martha Berry Museum will close out the summer break with another free Family Morning program on Wednesday, July 29, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.
The family-friendly event is open to all ages and is designed to engage young learners and their families through interactive and educational activities. Family Morning programs are offered several times throughout the year during school breaks, giving families an opportunity to explore the museum together.
The theme for July’s program is “Colors at Berry.” Participants will be encouraged to discover the colors, patterns and artistic inspiration found inside The Martha Berry Museum and throughout Berry College’s historic campus.
Activities will include a color scavenger hunt inside the museum, creating a garden design inspired by the gardens at Oak Hill and exploring the patterns and science behind stained glass, using the windows of Frost Chapel as inspiration.
Local artist Patricia Eastin will also present a live oil painting demonstration during the event.
Admission is free, and no age restrictions were announced. Organizers note that the Oak Hill home will not be open for tours during the Family Morning program.
GNTC Receives Donation Of Hygiene Products To Help Students In Need
Georgia Northwestern Technical College has received a donation of personal hygiene products from the nonprofit organization On My Mother’s Shoulders, helping ensure students facing financial hardship have access to essential everyday items.
The donation includes body wash, dental flossers, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, laundry detergent, lotion, razors, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes and washcloths. The items will be distributed to student pantries located at GNTC’s six campuses, as well as the college’s Aviation Training Center.
On My Mother’s Shoulders is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing basic necessities for college students experiencing housing insecurity and financial hardship. The organization has partnered with more than 39 colleges and donated approximately 136,000 personal care products to help students stay focused on their education.
Shawn Peeks, GNTC’s Special Populations coordinator, said requests for hygiene products have increased significantly in recent months, making the donation especially meaningful.
“Donations like this help us continue to meet the needs of our students and remove barriers that may hinder their success,” Peeks said. “We are truly grateful for this generous donation.”
Peeks said she contacted the nonprofit seeking assistance and learned that founder and Chief Executive Officer Claudia Phillips had already begun discussions with the Technical College System of Georgia about supporting technical colleges across the state.
“GNTC’s goal is to support students in becoming the very best version of themselves, and we are committed to helping them along the way,” Peeks said. “Community partners such as On My Mother’s Shoulders are invaluable to our mission, and we deeply appreciate their dedication to supporting our students and strengthening our community.”
Chattooga County Schools To Provide Free Breakfast And Lunch To All Students
All students enrolled in the Chattooga County School District will receive free breakfast and lunch throughout the 2026-2027 school year.
The district will continue participating in the Community Eligibility Provision, commonly known as CEP. The federally supported program, administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs, allows eligible school districts to provide meals to every student at no cost.
School officials say access to healthy meals helps students begin the day prepared to learn and removes financial barriers that could prevent some children from receiving breakfast or lunch. Families will not be required to submit a traditional free or reduced-price meal application for their children to participate.
However, the district is asking all families to complete a short and confidential survey that will be sent home at a later date. The information gathered will help the school system determine the amount of additional funding it may receive for educational programs, student services and meal-related initiatives.
Those programs may include the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Grant, after-school snacks and Seamless Summer meal options. District officials say strong participation in the survey is important because incomplete information could limit the school system’s ability to secure and fully use available resources.
The district says providing free meals to every student also helps reduce the stigma sometimes associated with meal assistance programs and ensures that no child is singled out because of a family’s financial situation.
Parents or guardians who need additional information may contact the Chattooga County School Nutrition Department at 706-859-3054.
Trion Town Council To Meet July 30
The Trion Town Council will hold its regular workshop and council meeting on Thursday, July 30, at Trion Town Hall.
According to a notice issued by Mayor Mickey D. McGraw, the workshop will begin at 6 p.m., with the regular council meeting to follow in the Town Hall Conference Room.
The workshop provides council members an opportunity to discuss agenda items before the regular meeting, where official business is conducted.
Mayor McGraw said anyone with questions or comments may contact the Trion Town Hall office for additional information.
The meeting is open to the public.
City Of Summerville Hiring Gas Department Director
The City of Summerville is accepting applications for a Gas Department Director to oversee the operation, maintenance and continued development of the city’s natural gas distribution system.
The position requires an experienced and motivated leader who can manage daily departmental operations while ensuring compliance with local, state and federal pipeline safety regulations.
Responsibilities include supervising and supporting Gas Department employees, directing emergency response procedures, managing the department’s budget and planning infrastructure improvement and expansion projects.
Applicants should have proven experience in natural gas utility operations and leadership, along with a thorough understanding of gas pipeline safety standards and regulations. Strong communication, problem-solving and team leadership skills are also required.
Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license and any relevant state or industry certifications.
Additional information regarding the application process, salary or deadline was not included in the city’s announcement. Those interested should contact the City of Summerville for complete application details.
Georgia Faces Growing Shortage Of Doctors, Especially In Rural Communities
Georgia continues to face a growing shortage of physicians and other healthcare providers, with rural communities experiencing some of the greatest challenges in accessing medical care.
According to federal Health Resources and Services Administration data, Georgia has hundreds of designated Health Professional Shortage Areas for primary care, mental health and dental services. Many rural counties struggle to recruit and retain doctors, forcing residents to travel longer distances for routine and specialized care.
A number of factors are driving the shortage, including an aging physician workforce, population growth, physician burnout and too few residency training positions to meet the state’s long-term needs. Healthcare experts also say younger physicians are increasingly choosing to practice in urban and suburban areas rather than rural communities.
A recent Georgia legislative commission studying maternal and infant health recommended expanding graduate medical education, filling more residency positions in family medicine, pediatrics and obstetrics, and increasing incentives to keep physicians in Georgia after they complete their training. The commission concluded that strengthening the healthcare workforce will be critical to improving access to care and addressing the state’s long-term healthcare needs.
Report Of Shots Fired Investigated In Summerville
The Summerville Police Department investigated a report of possible gunfire early Sunday morning after a resident reported hearing what sounded like a gunshot outside a home on Raymer Street.
According to the incident report, officers were dispatched to 271 Raymer Street at approximately 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 20, after Chattooga 911 received a call from a resident who said he heard what sounded like a gunshot and believed someone had fired from a vehicle before leaving the area.
Officers located a silver-colored van that initially matched the caller’s description. However, after further investigation, police determined the driver was the complainant’s brother-in-law and was not believed to be involved in the incident.
Police searched the area but found no additional vehicles or suspicious individuals. The complainant later told officers he did not want to meet with them but requested extra patrols in the area during the early morning hours because of an ongoing issue. He was unable to provide any possible suspects.
The incident report indicates the investigation concluded without identifying a suspect, and no additional information was available.
Arrest Report - Saturday - July 25, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, July 25, 2026:
Weekend Thunderstorms Give Way to Rising Heat and Humidity Next Week
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for a classic mid-summer weather pattern over the coming days, featuring scattered afternoon thunderstorms to start the weekend followed by a steady climb in temperatures heading into next week.
According to regional forecast data, conditions today and tonight carry a 50 percent chance of rain and thunderstorm activity, providing temporary relief from the heat but posing potential disruptions for afternoon outdoor plans. However, as storm chances taper off on Sunday, dry air and intense sunlight will drive heat index values close to triple digits, setting the stage for unseasonably hot weather across the region through mid-week.
For today, Northwest Georgia will see partly sunny skies with daytime highs reaching near 86 degrees. Winds remain calm early before shifting out of the west at around 5 mph. The primary weather story for Saturday is the developing risk of precipitation; a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected, with the highest likelihood of rain arriving after 2:00 p.m. Localized downpours could bring brief localized flooding or gusty winds in heavier cells.
Rain chances will persist into Saturday night, remaining at 50 percent under partly cloudy skies. Overnight temperatures will stay warm and humid, dropping to a low around 72 degrees with light, calm winds.
On Sunday, shower and thunderstorm activity will recede slightly, dropping to a 30 percent chance, mainly localized after 5:00 p.m. Skies will turn mostly sunny, allowing high temperatures to climb near 89 degrees. When combined with lingering surface moisture, Sunday’s heat index values are forecast to reach as high as 97 degrees. Light winds will shift out of the northwest at roughly 5 mph by Sunday afternoon. Sunday night will turn partly cloudy with a low near 71 degrees.
As the calendar turns to Monday, high pressure builds over North Georgia, significantly curbing storm activity and allowing temperatures to surge. Mostly sunny conditions will push daytime highs up to near 92 degrees under calm wind conditions. Monday night will remain mostly clear with a warm overnight low of 72 degrees. Tuesday is projected to be the hottest day of the 7-day outlook. Expect mostly sunny skies with high temperatures peaking near 94 degrees. Increased atmospheric instability during the evening brings a modest 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2:00 a.m. Tuesday night will remain partly cloudy, with lows holding around 74 degrees.
By mid-week, conditions normalize slightly, though daytime temperatures will remain firmly in the low 90s across Chattooga County and surrounding Northwest Georgia communities.
While afternoon showers offer brief cooling relief, the combination of upper-80s and mid-90s temperatures alongside elevated heat indices creates elevated risks for heat-related illnesses, especially for outdoor workers, young children, and older adults.
Storm Causes Flooding In Downtown Summerville, Lightning Damages County Communications Tower
A strong thunderstorm Friday afternoon caused flooding in downtown Summerville and damaged Chattooga County’s emergency communications system after lightning struck the county’s communications tower on Taylor’s Ridge.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters told WZQZ News that the primary flooding occurred along Commerce Street in front of Bryant and Sons Lumber Company. Winters said the flooding was likely caused by a drainage tile beneath the state-owned railroad tracks becoming clogged with debris. He said the city has contacted the state and will work to have the tile cleared.
Meanwhile, Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen told WZQZ News that a lightning strike shortly after 5 p.m. caused major damage to the communications tower used by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, county fire departments and EMS. Allen said service was partially restored by 6 p.m. and was expected to be fully restored before nightfall. He said permanent repairs to the tower are expected to be costly but should be covered by the county’s insurance.
Press Release:
From Chattooga County Government, EMA/E-911
A lightning strike associated with a severe storm this (Friday) afternoon impacted the Chattooga County Public Safety Communications Building, affecting portions of the county’s communications infrastructure.
Emergency communications remain operational, and dispatch services continue to support public safety agencies throughout the county. Personnel are actively working to restore all systems to full functionality.
Currently, there are no unmet public safety needs, and emergency services continue to respond to calls for service.
The public is encouraged to use 911 for emergencies as normal. Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as crews work to complete repairs.
Happening This Evening: Dancing With Our Stars - Chattooga Styler
Dancing With Our Stars – Chattooga Style 2026 is happening this evening at the Chattooga High School Auditorium.
The event will feature local participants taking the stage in a dance competition to benefit CRC Chattooga and its work to fight hunger, feed hope and support families across the community.
Audience members can cheer for their favorite teams, and every dollar donated will count as a vote. Organizers say the event is designed to bring the community together for a night of entertainment while also raising support for local families in need.
The VIP experience begins at 5:30 p.m., with the main show starting at 7 p.m.
Tickets and information on supporting a favorite dancer are available at www.feedchattooga.com.
Free Grief Support Seminar In September
Anyone coping with the loss of a loved one is invited to attend “My Grief Journey,” a free one-day seminar on Saturday, September 12, at Boynton Church of God in Ringgold.
The event will be held from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the church, located at 1956 Three Notch Road, in Ringgold, and lunch will be provided.
The six-hour seminar is designed for people who have experienced the loss of a loved one, as well as those who want to better understand how to help others through the grieving process. Topics will include common emotions associated with grief, such as anxiety, depression, anger, fear, difficulty sleeping and loss of concentration, while offering encouragement and practical guidance for healing.
The seminar will be facilitated by Jimmy Spurling and Neal Brown and is hosted by Boynton Church of God. There is no cost to attend.
Teloga Volunteer Fire Department Reminds Residents 2026 Membership Dues Are Due
The Teloga Volunteer Fire Department is reminding residents that 2026 membership dues are now due and encouraging community members to continue supporting the department’s mission of protecting the Teloga community.
Current members can conveniently pay their dues by placing their payment in the drop box located at the fire department or by stopping by the station on Monday nights after 6 p.m. to meet the firefighters and pay in person.
Residents who are not yet members are encouraged to join. The cost is $150 for the first year, with annual renewals of $50 each year after that.
Volunteer fire departments rely on community support to help provide emergency fire protection and other emergency services. Department officials say every membership helps keep the Teloga community safe.
Santa Special Train Tickets Now On Sale For Holiday Excursions To Summerville
Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Summerville Santa Special excursions through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.
This year’s holiday train rides are scheduled for November 28 and 29, December 5 and 6, and December 11 and 12. Tickets are $24 for everyone age 2 and older.
Passengers will travel to Summerville for a festive holiday experience that includes the Mistletoe Market and a free children’s activity tent. Visitors will also have time to shop, eat and enjoy downtown Summerville.
The Summerville Santa Special has become a popular family tradition, and organizers encourage passengers to reserve their seats early because the rides often sell out.
Tickets are available at www.tvrail.com under Train Rides, Seasonal Special Events, and Summerville Santa Special.
Local Businessman Pleads Guilty In Injury Crash, Receives Probation
The owner of a used car lot in Summerville has pleaded guilty in Chattooga County Superior Court to a serious injury by vehicle charge stemming from a February 2024 traffic crash that left a local woman with significant injuries.
Billy Joe Dooley entered the guilty plea during a hearing before Superior Court Judge Don Thompson. As part of a negotiated plea agreement, Dooley was sentenced under Georgia’s First Offender Act, allowing him to avoid a felony conviction if he successfully completes the terms of his sentence.
Under the agreement, Dooley will serve probation and must comply with several court-ordered conditions. Those conditions include paying restitution to the victim, completing community service, and attending programs aimed at preventing future impaired driving offenses. The court also suspended a separate traffic-related charge connected to the incident.
The crash seriously injured Katie Talley, who sustained multiple injuries requiring extensive medical treatment.
Because the sentence was imposed under Georgia’s First Offender Act, the case may be discharged without a felony conviction if Dooley successfully completes all requirements of his probation. Failure to comply could result in the court revoking First Offender status and entering a conviction.
Search Continues For New Rome-Floyd Development Authority CEO
The Rome-Floyd County Development Authority is continuing its search for a new president and chief executive officer following the departure of Chattooga County native Spencer Hogg.
Hogg was hired by the Development Authority in July 2025 and resigned earlier this year after serving in the position for less than a year. He now serves as chief of staff for U.S. Congressman Clay Fuller, who represents Georgia’s 14th Congressional District.
During a recent meeting, Development Authority members discussed the ongoing search for Hogg’s replacement and compensation for The Chason Group, the executive search firm assisting with the hiring process.
Authority Chairman Jimmy Byars said the firm’s original agreement included a provision that significantly reduced the cost of a second search if the selected candidate did not remain in the position for the agreed-upon period. Because of that provision, the renewed search is being conducted without an additional professional fee, although the authority will still reimburse related expenses.
Byars asked the board to contribute $10,000 toward those expenses as The Chason Group continues recruiting candidates for the position.
The Rome-Floyd County Development Authority has not announced a timeline for selecting its next president and CEO.
Heat To Build Across Northwest Georgia Next Week
While showers and thunderstorms will keep temperatures a little lower through the weekend, much hotter weather is expected to return to northwest Georgia next week.
Highs in Chattooga County are forecast to climb into the lower 90s on Sunday, then reach the middle 90s by Tuesday. Heat index values are expected to top 100 degrees each afternoon, making it feel even hotter.
The National Weather Service says the hottest conditions are expected Monday through Wednesday as high humidity combines with the summer heat. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear light-colored clothing, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and check on elderly neighbors, children and pets.
While a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms remains in the forecast next week, widespread relief from the heat is not expected.