Arrest Report - Wednesday - April 15, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, April 15, 2026:
Fire Danger Statement In Effect Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia
A Fire Danger Statement is in effect this afternoon across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia as very dry, warm conditions continue to raise wildfire concerns across the region.
Forecasters say high pressure remains firmly in control over the Southeast, keeping skies mostly clear and temperatures running far above normal for mid-April. Highs today through Saturday are expected to climb into the mid-80s to lower 90s, with some areas across north Georgia nearing daily record highs.
The main concern is the combination of low humidity, very dry vegetation, and ongoing drought conditions. Relative humidity values are expected to drop into the 25 to 30 percent range during the afternoon hours, creating an elevated fire risk. Winds are expected to remain below Red Flag Warning criteria, but fire weather concerns will stay high because of the continued dryness.
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are being urged to avoid outdoor burning and use extreme caution with anything that could create a spark. Officials say even without strong winds, the dry conditions can allow fires to spread quickly.
The warm and dry pattern is expected to continue through Saturday. A slight chance of isolated showers could reach far north Georgia late Thursday into Thursday night, but most of the area is expected to remain dry.
Rain chances are expected to increase late Saturday into Sunday as a cold front moves toward the region, bringing scattered showers and possibly a few thunderstorms. Even with that system, forecasters say rainfall amounts are not expected to be enough to significantly improve drought conditions.
A cooldown is expected behind the front, with highs dropping back into the 70s by early next week and morning lows falling into the upper 30s and lower 40s.
For now, the biggest concern remains the ongoing fire danger as hot, dry weather continues across Chattooga County and the rest of Northwest Georgia.
April 15 Deadline Puts Focus On Filing Taxes On Time
Today, Wednesday, April 15, is Tax Day in the United States, marking the deadline for most Americans to file their federal income tax returns for the 2025 tax year.
The deadline also applies to taxpayers who need to make a payment to the Internal Revenue Service. Officials remind residents that even if someone is not ready to fully complete their return, they can still file for an automatic extension. That extension gives taxpayers until October 15 to submit their paperwork, but it does not extend the time to pay any taxes owed. Payments still must be made by today to avoid possible penalties and interest.
Tax Day is typically one of the busiest days of the year for tax professionals, accountants, and online filing services, as many taxpayers wait until the final deadline to submit their returns. Financial experts say filing on time is important not only to avoid extra fees, but also to reduce delays in processing refunds and other tax-related documents.
Residents who still need to file are encouraged to use electronic filing options when possible, since e-filing is generally faster and can help reduce errors. Some taxpayers may also qualify for free filing programs, depending on their income and circumstances.
For those mailing a return, it must be postmarked by today’s date in order to meet the deadline.
Tax professionals also remind taxpayers to double-check important information before submitting, including Social Security numbers, banking details for direct deposit, and any forms related to income, deductions, or tax credits.
Anyone with questions about filing requirements, payment options, or extensions is encouraged to seek guidance from a qualified tax preparer or visit official IRS resources for more information.
Summerville Moves Forward With Mini-Pitch Soccer Project Backed By Atrium Health Grant
A new youth recreation project is moving ahead in Summerville after City Council approved the purchase of a $142,500 Musco mini-pitch soccer system earlier this year for the Fairway Recreation Center.
The project is being funded through a grant connected to Atrium Health Floyd and its regional foundation, which has supported youth recreation and community wellness efforts across Northwest Georgia.
City Manager Jason Winters told council members the grant requires the city to use a specific package of equipment, including the Musco Mini-Pitch System.
The purchase was approved unanimously by the Summerville City Council in February.
The mini-pitch will serve as a compact, enclosed soccer facility designed for pickup games, organized play, and community programming. City leaders say the project is intended to expand recreational opportunities for local families while encouraging physical activity and outdoor engagement.
The Summerville project is part of a broader regional effort to create more accessible soccer spaces and strengthen community health through recreation. Similar mini-pitch projects in Northwest Georgia have been supported through Atrium Health-related funding partnerships aimed at giving children and families safe places to play.
Earlier this month, the Summerville Recreation Department shared an update on the project’s progress, saying, “The new soccer mini-pitch site has been prepped, and a brand new restroom has been built on site to service the proposed soccer complex once fully completed. We are appreciative of the grants funding this project.”
That update shows visible progress is already underway at the Fairway Recreation Center site as the city moves closer to bringing the new facility online.
City officials say the new mini-pitch will be a major addition to Summerville’s recreation offerings and another investment in quality of life for residents across Chattooga County.
Kindergarten Registration Opens Today For Chattooga County Schools
Chattooga County Schools will begin kindergarten registration for the upcoming 2026–2027 school year starting today, April 15.
Registration is available both online and in person at the Chattooga Enrollment Center, located at 286 Maple Drive in Summerville. Officials note that the GPS address for the facility is 302 Maple Drive.
To be eligible for kindergarten, children must be 5 years old on or before September 1.
Parents and guardians will need to provide several required documents, including a birth certificate, Social Security card, immunization record, eye, ear, and dental screening (Form 3300), proof of residency, and a valid photo ID.
Families can complete registration online by visiting the Chattooga County Schools website, selecting the Enrollment Center tab, and choosing the 2026–2027 kindergarten registration link. In-person registration is available Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
School officials encourage families to register early to help ensure a smooth start to the school year.
For more information, contact the Chattooga Enrollment Center at 706-859-8909.
Chattooga High FFA Spring Plant Sale Continues Through Thursday With Reduced Prices
The Chattooga High School FFA Spring Plant Sale is continuing this week, with organizers announcing reduced prices on all remaining plants through Thursday.
The sale is being held daily from 8 AM to 5 PM at the Chattooga High School greenhouse, located behind the school in Summerville. Community members still have time to take advantage of discounted prices on a wide variety of plants, including flowers, vegetables, herbs, and hanging baskets.
The annual plant sale is a major fundraiser for the Chattooga FFA program, helping support student activities, agricultural education, and leadership opportunities throughout the year. Each purchase directly benefits local students involved in FFA.
Organizers say this is a great opportunity for residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia to stock up on spring plants while supporting a good cause. With reduced pricing now in effect, many popular items are expected to sell quickly before the sale wraps up Thursday afternoon.
Shoppers are encouraged to stop by early for the best selection.
Camp Hamby Registration Opens Today In Chattooga County
Registration officially opens today, Wednesday, April 15, for the beloved Camp Hamby Day Camp in Summerville, a long-standing summer tradition that has impacted generations of families across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia.
Nestled along a small creek in the valley of Lookout Mountain, Camp Hamby was founded in 1968 after Mr. Hugh Hamby of Menlo United Methodist Church donated the land to create a Christian camp for young people. What began as a small ministry has grown into a cornerstone community program, now serving around 300 children each summer.
The day camp first opened in 1981 with just 38 campers. Since then, it has expanded significantly thanks to decades of dedication from volunteers, counselors, and staff—many of whom grew up attending the camp themselves.
Camp Hamby is directed by Liz Wells, the great-granddaughter of founder Hugh Hamby, alongside assistant director Amy Housch. Both have deep roots in the program, having spent the past 30 years involved as campers, counselors, and leaders.
Each day at camp is packed with activities designed to be both fun and meaningful. Campers rotate through nature, music, arts and crafts, Bible exploration, recreation, and discovery sessions, all centered around learning about faith and the love of Jesus.
One of the camp’s most cherished traditions is building handmade boats and rafts during nature time, then racing them in the creek. The week wraps up with a Friday family program where campers showcase what they’ve learned and perform traditional songs. Campers also enjoy a special treat at the end of the week with an inflatable water slide.
Camp Hamby is open to children of all denominations and continues to be a place where lifelong memories are made and strong community bonds are formed.
This year’s sessions will be held June 8–12 and June 15–19, and registration is open now for children entering kindergarten through 6th grade.
Find registration information HERE
Adoption Event Planned Saturday At Chattooga County Animal Shelter
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is inviting the community to come out and adopt a pet during a special adoption event this Saturday.
The event will take place Saturday, April 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the shelter, located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville.
Officials say a number of dogs and cats will be available for adoption, giving families the opportunity to provide a loving home to animals in need. The adoption process includes meeting the animals, completing an application, and paying a $25 adoption fee.
Shelter staff say the event is a great opportunity for residents to find a new companion while helping reduce overcrowding at the shelter.
The event is open to the public, and families are encouraged to stop by, meet the animals, and consider adopting.
For more information, contact the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.
Pilot Reports Laser Strike Near Georgia-Alabama Border, Warning Issued To Parents
A troubling aviation safety incident shared by meteorologist James Spann is drawing attention across the region after a pilot reported someone shining a green laser into his cockpit while flying at night near the Georgia-Alabama border.
According to information shared from Jonathan Womelsdorf, his son was flying back from eastern Tennessee when the incident happened. Womelsdorf said the aircraft was over the Georgia-Alabama state line when someone began shining a green laser into the cockpit in an apparent attempt to blind the pilot.
The coordinates shared from the aircraft place the incident in Chattooga County, Georgia, just outside Summerville, near the Teloga area.
The pilot reported the incident to air traffic control in Atlanta and was able to make it back safely to Pell City Airport. According to the post, Atlanta controllers told him that shining a laser at an aircraft is a felony offense if the person responsible is caught.
Womelsdorf also urged parents to be aware if their children are outside playing with green lasers, warning that what may seem harmless can create a very dangerous situation for pilots. He said lasers aimed at aircraft can interfere with a pilot’s vision and “can actually bring a plane down.”
Aviation officials stress that laser strikes are especially dangerous at night, when even a brief flash can distract, disorient, or temporarily blind a pilot during critical moments of flight.
Free Pet Vaccines And Microchipping Event Set For May 1 In Summerville
Pet owners in Chattooga County will have an opportunity to protect their animals at no cost during an upcoming free vaccination and microchipping event.
The event is scheduled for Friday, May 1 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tractor Supply, located at 11788 Highway 27 in Summerville.
Organizers say the clinic will offer rabies vaccines for dogs and cats, DHPP vaccines for dogs, FVRCP vaccines for cats, and microchipping services.
The event is being held for dogs and cats belonging to Chattooga County residents and is sponsored by the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia in partnership with the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.
All dogs must be on a leash and all cats in a crate.
Officials say the event is a great opportunity for pet owners to ensure their animals are up to date on vaccinations and properly identified.
Football Parent Meetings Scheduled This Week For Chattooga And Trion Programs
Parents of student-athletes in both the Chattooga and Trion football programs have important meetings coming up this week as schools prepare for the upcoming season.
At Chattooga High School, an important football parent meeting will take place this evening, Wednesday, April 15, at 6 p.m. in the CHS cafeteria. School officials say at least one parent or guardian is required to attend. Topics expected to be discussed include spring, summer, and fall schedules, free physicals, player expectations, fundraisers, and other program information.
Meanwhile, Trion Football will hold its parent meeting for grades 6 through 12 on Sunday, April 19, at 4 p.m. in the Trion High School gym. Organizers say the meeting is for both middle school and high school football parents, and important information and expectations for the upcoming year will be shared.
Both schools are encouraging parents to make plans to attend so families can stay informed and prepared ahead of the new football season.
VoIP Phone Service Disruptions Reported Across Chattooga County
Chattooga County EMA/E-911 reported Tuesday that multiple Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, phone service disruptions have been affecting residents and businesses across Chattooga County and surrounding areas.
Officials say they have received numerous reports of customers being unable to place outbound phone calls. The issue is not limited to E-911 services and appears to be impacting a wide range of users who rely on internet-based phone systems.
At this time, no official outage notification has been issued by service providers. However, officials say the disruption may be connected to a larger network issue involving AT&T infrastructure.
The exact cause of the outage remains under investigation, and there is currently no estimated timeframe for when service will be fully restored.
Chattooga County EMA/E-911 says they are continuing to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - April 14, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, April 14, 2026:
Fire Danger And Near-Record Heat Tighten Grip On Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
A Fire Danger Statement remains in effect across Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia as a prolonged stretch of hot, dry weather continues to elevate wildfire risks across the region. Emergency officials and forecasters warn that conditions are becoming increasingly favorable for fires to ignite and spread rapidly, especially during the afternoon and early evening hours when humidity levels drop the lowest.
The current weather pattern is being driven by strong high pressure settled over the Southeast, effectively blocking rain-producing systems from reaching Georgia. This setup has created a persistent stretch of dry air, sunny skies, and steadily warming temperatures. Afternoon humidity values are expected to fall as low as 25 to 30 percent, while dry vegetation and forest fuels continue to worsen the fire threat.
Temperatures across Chattooga County and surrounding areas are running significantly above seasonal averages. Highs are climbing into the mid and upper 80s, with some locations pushing toward 90 degrees by midweek. These readings are 10 to 15 degrees above normal for mid-April, and several communities in Northwest Georgia could challenge or even break daily record highs through Wednesday and beyond.
Overnight conditions are offering little relief, with lows only dipping into the upper 50s and low 60s. This lack of cooling, combined with continued dry weather, is accelerating the drying of soil and vegetation.
Unfortunately, there is little indication of meaningful rainfall in the near future. Forecast models show that any potential rain systems later this week will likely remain weak and moisture-starved. Even looking into the weekend, only slight rain chances are expected, and forecasters say any showers that do develop will not be enough to significantly improve the ongoing drought.
Much of North and Central Georgia, including Northwest Georgia, is already experiencing severe to extreme drought conditions. Without substantial rainfall, those conditions are expected to worsen through the remainder of the week and into the weekend.
Fire officials are strongly urging residents to avoid outdoor burning and to exercise extreme caution with any activity that could produce sparks, including grilling, equipment use, and debris burning. Even small flames can quickly grow out of control under these conditions.
Authorities emphasize that staying alert and taking precautions now can help prevent dangerous wildfire situations as the region heads deeper into this unusually warm and dry stretch.
Scouting America Troop 7 Hosting Open House In Summerville
Scouting America Troop 7 in Summerville is inviting local youth and families to an upcoming open house to learn more about scouting opportunities in the community.
The event will be held Monday, April 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the Scout Hut located at 220 Highway 100 in Summerville.
Organizers say the open house will give attendees a chance to meet current scouts and adult leaders, learn about camping and outdoor adventures, and explore leadership and service opportunities offered through the program. There will also be time to ask questions about joining Troop 7.
The event is open to youth ages 11 to 17, along with parents and guardians. No prior scouting experience is required.
Everyone is invited to come out and discover what Scouting America has to offer.
Gas Prices Hold Steady Across Georgia Amid Global Uncertainty
Gas prices across Georgia are holding steady this week, even as tensions in the Middle East continue to create volatility in global oil markets.
The statewide average for a gallon of regular gasoline remains unchanged at $3.71, with ongoing ceasefire discussions helping ease some pressure on prices. At the same time, Governor Brian Kemp’s suspension of the state gas tax continues to help limit sharper increases at the pump.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters says while global tensions are keeping oil prices unpredictable, Georgia drivers are seeing some relief locally thanks to the tax suspension.
Compared to recent benchmarks, gas prices are the same as last week, 27 cents higher than last month, and 73 cents higher than this time last year. Filling up a standard 15-gallon tank is costing drivers about $55.65.
Across northwest Georgia and the surrounding area, prices remain slightly below the state average in several locations:
- Chattooga County: $3.65
- Walker County: $3.68
- Floyd County: $3.63
- Gordon County: $3.67
- DeKalb County, AL: $3.90
- Cherokee County, AL: $3.77
Statewide, the least expensive metro areas include Rome at $3.63 and Dalton at $3.60, while Savannah, Valdosta, and Macon are among the highest.
Nationally, the average price rose just one cent to $4.12 per gallon, reflecting continued uncertainty in global energy markets. Meanwhile, electric vehicle charging costs held steady at 41 cents per kilowatt hour.
Experts say prices could continue to fluctuate in the coming weeks depending on developments overseas, so drivers are encouraged to look for ways to save where possible.
Chattooga County Historical Society To Host Trivia-Filled Spring Meeting
The Chattooga County Historical Society is inviting the community to a fun and educational afternoon at its quarterly meeting this Sunday, April 19, 2026.
The event will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the Summerville Depot and will feature a Chattooga County History Trivia Contest. Attendees will be divided into teams for a fast-paced and engaging program designed to test local knowledge and teach a few new facts along the way.
Organizers say there will be refreshments and plenty of prizes, and the event is open to everyone — especially those who enjoy the historical photos and posts shared online.
Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars and come out for an afternoon of local history and community fun.
Cisco Networking Academy Honors GNTC’s Dr. Dwight Watt For Instructional Excellence
The Cisco Networking Academy has honored Dr. Dwight Watt, instructor of Computer Information Systems Technology at Georgia Northwestern Technical College, with its 2025 Instructor Excellence Advanced Level Award for outstanding teaching and student success.
According to Cisco Networking Academy, the award recognizes Watt’s exceptional instruction and contributions to the program, noting his strong student feedback and performance as part of his global standing among top instructors.
Watt serves as the primary contact for the Cisco Networking Academy at GNTC and is a Cisco-certified Networking Academy instructor. GNTC officials praised his continued commitment to excellence in the classroom and dedication to helping students succeed.
Watt said he was honored to receive the recognition and remains focused on making sure students receive the latest instruction in networking and cybersecurity. He noted that he takes training several times a year to stay current in a field that is constantly changing.
At GNTC, Watt teaches several courses using Cisco materials, including Introduction to Networks, Cisco Switching, Routing and Wireless Essentials, Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation, and Implementing Operating Systems Security. He said it has been rewarding to watch students move into successful careers after completing the training.
The Instructor Excellence Advanced Level Award recognizes instructors ranked in the top 25 percent globally. To qualify, an instructor must have taught at least 20 Networking Academy students during the calendar year and met performance benchmarks tied to final exam completion and course feedback.
This is not the first time Watt has received national recognition from Cisco. He also received the 2024 Instructor Excellence Advanced Level Award as well as the Instructor 25 Years of Service Award.
Watt holds degrees from Winthrop University and the University of Georgia, and he has earned more than 50 certifications in the Information Technology field.
Summerville Woman Arrested Following Incident At Hospital
A Summerville woman was arrested following an incident at Atrium Health Floyd involving hospital security.
According to reports, Treva Misuni Wiggins, 43, of Summerville, was taken into custody after allegedly yelling at security staff. Authorities say Wiggins had been instructed to leave the hospital when she stopped and began raising her voice.
When officers arrived on the scene, reports indicate Wiggins refused commands to place her hands behind her back.
She was arrested and charged with criminal trespass and obstruction.
Summerville To Host 2026 Spring Market This Saturday
The City of Summerville is inviting the community out to Dowdy Park this weekend for the annual Spring Market.
The event will take place Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Dowdy Park.
Organizers say the Spring Market is a great way to welcome the season, featuring a wide variety of vendors and activities. Shoppers can browse arts and crafts, jewelry, baked goods, body and hair care products, wooden items, live plants, specialty pet items, food, and more.
The event will also include live entertainment, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the day.
Hosted by the City of Summerville, the event is open to the public and expected to draw a large crowd.