Arrest Report - Monday - October 19, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, October 19, 2026:
Sunny Skies And Dry Conditions Expected Throughout The Week In Chattooga County
Residents of Chattooga County can expect a week of sunny skies, comfortable afternoon temperatures and chilly nights, according to the National Weather Service. However, the extended stretch of dry weather could also increase the danger of wildfires across northwest Georgia.
Today, skies will be sunny with a high near 72 degrees. Winds will be calm during the morning before becoming northerly at around 5 mph during the afternoon. Tonight will be clear and chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 45 degrees.
Tuesday will bring more sunshine and a high near 74, followed by clear skies and a low around 45 Tuesday night.
Temperatures will gradually warm through the middle of the week, reaching around 77 degrees Wednesday and 75 Thursday. Highs will remain in the middle 70s Friday through Sunday, with overnight lows generally in the middle 40s.
Forecasters say high pressure and an unusually dry air mass will keep rain chances near zero throughout the week.
The biggest weather concern will be increased fire danger. Very low humidity and continued dry conditions could create favorable conditions for wildfires, particularly when combined with gusty winds. The National Weather Service says additional fire danger statements may be needed during the coming days.
Residents are encouraged to use caution with outdoor burning and any activities that could accidentally spark a fire.
The extended forecast calls for sunny skies through next Sunday, with no significant rainfall expected.
West Washington Street Closing Today For Sewer Line Replacement
Motorists traveling through Summerville today should be aware of a temporary road closure as city crews work to replace a sewer line.
West Washington Street will be closed to through traffic between Sunset Drive and Raymond Street today, Monday, October 19, from 8:30 AM until 4 PM.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters told WZQZ News on Friday that the city would be replacing a sewer line in the area.
The City of Summerville subsequently issued a notice advising motorists of the scheduled closure.
Drivers who normally travel through that section of West Washington Street are encouraged to plan alternate routes and allow additional travel time, particularly during the morning and afternoon hours.
The sewer line replacement is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to maintain its municipal utility infrastructure.
Motorists are reminded to watch for city employees and equipment working along the roadway and to use caution when traveling near the construction area.
The closure is scheduled to end at 4 PM today.
Georgia Power Highlights Programs To Help Customers Lower Energy Bills
Georgia Power is reminding customers across the state about several programs designed to help lower monthly electricity bills and improve energy efficiency as cooler weather approaches.
The utility recently highlighted its customer assistance and energy-saving programs as part of October’s Energy Efficiency Month, encouraging households to explore available discounts, rebates and home energy improvements.
Among the programs available is Georgia Power’s Income-Qualified Senior Citizen Discount, which provides a monthly discount of $33.50 for eligible customers age 65 and older who meet household income requirements.
The company also offers energy assistance programs for qualifying low-income households, along with payment arrangements for customers having difficulty paying their electricity bills.
Georgia Power’s energy efficiency programs include opportunities for eligible homeowners to receive assistance with improvements such as insulation, air sealing and heating and cooling efficiency. Some qualifying households may be eligible for free improvements, while others can take advantage of available rebates.
Customers can also use Georgia Power’s online energy management tools to monitor electricity consumption, review usage patterns and identify opportunities to reduce energy costs.
With colder weather approaching, the company recommends taking simple steps such as sealing air leaks around doors and windows, maintaining heating systems and using programmable thermostats to manage energy consumption.
Georgia Power serves customers throughout Northwest Georgia, including portions of Chattooga County.
Residents interested in learning more about available assistance, discounts and energy efficiency programs can visit GeorgiaPower.com or contact the company at 1-888-660-5890.
Man Arrested After SUV Reported Stolen From Trion Skating Rink
A 24-year-old man was arrested on a felony theft charge after a woman reported that her SUV had been stolen from the Trion Skating Rink.
According to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy was dispatched to the skating rink around 5:11 PM on Saturday, October 10, after a woman reported that her vehicle had been taken without permission.
While responding to the call, the deputy spotted a white Ford Expedition partially in the roadway near Trion-Teloga Road. A witness told the deputy that she had given two men a ride to a female acquaintance’s home near a pet store at the end of Trion-Teloga Road.
The deputy contacted the vehicle’s owner, who confirmed that the Ford Expedition was her missing SUV. She identified Keshawn Gavyn Isham, 24, as the person she believed had taken it.
As deputies continued their investigation, Isham and another man returned to the area on foot. Isham was taken into custody.
According to the report, Isham became upset during the arrest and continued shouting at deputies while being transported to the Chattooga County Jail.
During a subsequent interview at the jail, Isham claimed that he had permission from the vehicle’s owner to borrow the SUV and drive it to another residence.
Investigators also questioned Isham about a woman who had reportedly been with him in the vehicle. He initially denied that she had been in the SUV but later acknowledged that he had not been truthful about her presence.
The Sheriff’s Office charged Isham with Felony Theft by Taking of a Motor Vehicle.
The incident remains documented as a motor vehicle theft investigation by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Chattooga County Health Inspection Scores For First Half Of October
The latest health inspection scores from the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department for the first half of October show two local schools receiving perfect scores of 100.
According to records from the Georgia Department of Public Health, the following food service establishments were inspected between October 1 and October 15, 2026:
Summerville Middle School – 33 Middle School Road, Summerville – Score: 100 – Inspected October 14, 2026.
Leroy Massey Elementary School – 403 Dot Johnson Way, Summerville – Score: 100 – Inspected October 13, 2026.
The Chattooga County Environmental Health Department conducts routine inspections of food service establishments to ensure compliance with state food safety and sanitation regulations.
Inspections examine food handling procedures, storage temperatures, cleanliness, employee hygiene and other factors that help protect public health.
Should you ever have a complaint concerning any food service establishment or tourist accommodation operating in Chattooga County, you may register that complaint by calling the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department at 706-857-3377.
Georgia Hunters Reminded To Report Deer Harvests During Firearms Season
With firearms deer season underway in Georgia, wildlife officials are reminding hunters that all harvested deer must be reported through the state’s Georgia Game Check system.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division requires hunters to record and report every deer they harvest, providing wildlife biologists with important information used to monitor deer populations and manage hunting opportunities across the state.
Hunters must record their harvest on their harvest record before moving the deer from the location where it was taken. The harvest must then be reported to Georgia Game Check within 24 hours.
Hunters can report their deer harvest through the free Go Outdoors GA mobile app, online at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com or by calling 1-800-366-2661.
The reporting requirement applies to all deer hunters, including those who are exempt from purchasing a hunting license, such as qualifying landowners.
After submitting a report, hunters receive a confirmation number that must be recorded on their harvest record. Hunters using the mobile app can also report harvests without cellular service, but must synchronize their information when service becomes available.
Georgia Game Check helps wildlife officials track the number of deer harvested, where they are taken and other information important to maintaining healthy deer populations.
Hunters are also reminded to follow statewide and county-specific regulations concerning bag limits, antler restrictions and either-sex hunting opportunities.
More information about Georgia’s deer hunting regulations and harvest reporting requirements is available at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com.
Trion High School Announces 2026-2027 Homecoming Court
Trion High School has announced the students selected to represent their school on the 2026-2027 Homecoming Court, with homecoming festivities scheduled for later this week.
This year’s homecoming court includes Zoi Phillips, Lyla Warren, Emme Hankins, Payton Weaver, Meila Treadaway, Brylie Ward, Silvia Ramirez-Pablo, Zoey Cherry, Stella Morrison, Lila Groce and Perri Parris.
The Trion Bulldogs will celebrate homecoming on Friday, October 23, when they host the Manchester Blue Devils at Sam R. McCain Stadium in Trion.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM.
The homecoming celebration is a longstanding tradition at Trion High School, bringing together students, alumni, families and community members to celebrate school spirit and recognize the students selected for the homecoming court.
Fans are encouraged to attend Friday night’s game and support the Bulldogs as they celebrate this year’s homecoming.
Man Arrested For DUI After Deputy Finds Vehicle Outside Summerville Residence
A 53-year-old man was arrested on DUI and suspended license charges after a Chattooga County deputy responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle outside a residence on Henderson Circle.
According to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy was dispatched to the 1200 block of Henderson Circle around 11:37 PM on October 9 after receiving information about a man in a white SUV who was allegedly attempting to enter a nearby residence.
When the deputy arrived, he located a white Kia Sorento with its engine running and a man sitting in the driver’s seat. The man, identified as Joshua Benjamin Benton Johnson, 53, provided a Tennessee identification card and told the deputy he was attempting to enter his wife’s residence because she was in the hospital.
A check of his information revealed that his Tennessee driver’s license had been canceled. Johnson reportedly acknowledged knowing that his license was no longer valid.
The deputy also noticed the odor of alcohol coming from Johnson’s breath. When questioned, Johnson reportedly admitted to drinking two beers earlier that evening.
Johnson agreed to participate in field sobriety testing. According to the report, he displayed several signs of possible impairment, including difficulty following instructions, maintaining his balance and completing the walk-and-turn test.
During the one-leg stand test, Johnson reportedly struggled to maintain his balance and expressed concern about falling.
The deputy subsequently arrested Johnson on suspicion of driving under the influence. Johnson agreed to provide a blood sample and was transported to an EMS station for a blood draw before being taken to the Chattooga County Jail.
Further investigation revealed that Johnson had previously held a Georgia driver’s license that expired in 2019 and had been suspended in connection with a 2024 driving while license suspended charge.
Johnson was charged with DUI and Driving While License Suspended or Revoked.
Free Food Distribution Taking Place Today In Summerville
The Chattanooga Area Food Bank will hold a free community food distribution today, Monday, October 19, at the Summerville Parks and Recreation Department.
The distribution will take place from 3 PM until 5 PM at the recreation center, located at 220 Highway 100 in Summerville.
Eligible Georgia residents will be able to receive free groceries, including pantry staples, fresh produce, frozen foods and other items as supplies allow.
The distribution will be conducted as a drive-through event, with volunteers loading groceries directly into recipients’ vehicles. No reservations or deliveries will be available.
Organizers encourage residents to arrive early because supplies are limited, and the event will end once all available food has been distributed.
The Chattanooga Area Food Bank is a regional nonprofit organization that works to combat hunger across 20 counties in Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County.
Its Northwest Georgia service area includes Chattooga, Walker, Dade, Catoosa, Whitfield, Murray, Gordon, Gilmer and Fannin counties.
Working through a network of more than 200 community partners, the organization provides food assistance to families, children, senior citizens and individuals struggling with food insecurity.
According to the food bank, approximately one in six households across its service area faces uncertainty about having enough food. The organization distributed the equivalent of approximately 18.3 million meals last year through its regional hunger-relief programs.
Today’s Summerville distribution is part of the food bank’s ongoing effort to make groceries more accessible to residents, particularly in rural communities where transportation and access to affordable food can be challenges.
Convicted Felon Arrested With Loaded Handgun During Shoplifting Investigation At Summerville Walmart
A 41-year-old man was arrested at Walmart in Summerville after Chattooga County deputies discovered he was carrying a loaded handgun despite having a previous felony conviction.
According to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to Walmart at 13427 Highway 27 on October 9, 2026, following complaints about possible shoplifting involving a man and woman.
Deputies had previously been called to the store that afternoon concerning the same individuals. Store personnel reported that the two were suspected of shoplifting and had been involved in previous incidents.
When deputies returned to the store around 5:39 PM, they located the individuals near the self-checkout area and escorted them to the store’s loss prevention office for questioning.
Because deputies had received information that the man might be armed, they asked whether he was carrying a weapon. The man, identified as **Jason Paul Wells, 41**, acknowledged having a firearm and surrendered a silver and black semiautomatic handgun that was concealed in a holster inside his waistband.
During the investigation, deputies learned that Wells had admitted to shoplifting several items earlier that day. He retrieved the merchandise from his vehicle and returned it to store personnel.
Wells reportedly told deputies he was a convicted felon and carried the handgun for personal protection.
A criminal history check confirmed that Wells had a previous felony conviction for possession of methamphetamine in Gordon County, where he had been sentenced to five years of probation. The report also noted previous probation violations and shoplifting charges.
The recovered handgun was identified as a .380-caliber semiautomatic pistol containing seven rounds of ammunition. The weapon was collected as evidence.
Wells was arrested and charged with **Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon**. He was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident.
The Sheriff’s Office indicated that allegations involving previous shoplifting incidents would be referred to investigators for further review.
From Nine Early School Districts To Two School Systems
Cloudland School in the 1950s. Photo Credit: Jimmy Holbrook family photos
Today, Chattooga County is served by two public school systems — the Chattooga County School District and the Trion City School District. But more than 150 years ago, education in the county looked considerably different, with small community schools scattered throughout the countryside and nine original school districts.
The history of organized public education in Chattooga County dates to February 7, 1871, when the county’s first Board of Education held its inaugural meeting.
The county was divided into nine school districts: Summerville, Trion, Teloga, Alpine (Menlo), Dirtseller, Seminole, Coldwater, Dirttown and Haywood. These were local divisions of the county school system rather than nine independent school systems.
Before public education became established, many children attended private academies, church-supported schools or small neighborhood schools. Some families hired private tutors, while children from families with limited financial resources attended what were known as poor schools.
As public education expanded, schools were established throughout Chattooga County, often serving relatively small geographic areas.
Among the many schools that once operated in the county were Cloudland, Teloga, Chelsea, Pine Grove, Menlo, Lyerly, Holland, Gore, Bethel, Subligna, Pennville, Myers, Hanson and Summerville.
Teloga School. Photo Credit: Chattooga County Historical Society
Other important schools included the Chattooga Training School at Holland, Summerville Colored School, which later became A.C. Carter School, and West Side School in Trion. These institutions served Black students during the era of segregated public education.
Many of the small rural schools served as gathering places for their communities. School programs, holiday celebrations, sporting events and graduation exercises often brought together families from throughout the surrounding area.
Historical records show that by 1900, Chattooga County had 37 schools for white students and 12 schools for Black students. Five years later, consolidation had reduced those numbers to 26 white schools and 11 Black schools.
A.C. Carter School. Photo Credit: Locationshub.com
The financial challenges facing early schools were considerable. The county Board of Education sometimes borrowed money from banks, private citizens and churches to continue operating.
By April 1921, the financial situation had become so serious that school board members discussed the possibility of suspending county school operations.
As transportation improved, many of the smaller community schools were gradually consolidated into larger facilities.
One of the earliest important educational institutions was Bethel Academy in the Gore community, which helped establish secondary education in Chattooga County. Bethel School eventually consolidated into Gore School.
Gore High School became an important educational center for families in the eastern portion of the county. In 1921, residents of that area decided to establish a consolidated high school to serve several communities.
Subligna also developed a consolidated school during the 1920s, eventually offering a full four-year high school program.
The consolidation process continued through the middle of the twentieth century.
In 1959, Subligna High School merged with Summerville High School, a decision that drew objections from some residents who wanted to preserve their community school.
A major turning point came in the fall of 1961, when Chattooga High School began operating as a consolidated high school serving students from across the county. The school’s first graduating class received its diplomas in 1962.
According to Gene McGinnis of the Chattooga County Historical Society, the consolidation process was not without controversy. Communities such as Lyerly and Menlo resisted losing their local high schools, with opposition particularly strong in Menlo.
McGinnis says the smaller schools faced difficulties meeting state educational standards, including requirements involving school facilities. Those concerns helped drive the movement toward consolidation.
The creation of Chattooga High School represented a major change in the county’s educational system, bringing students from communities that had previously maintained their own high schools into a single county high school.
School desegregation brought additional changes during the 1960s.
McGinnis recalls that the Chattooga County school system began a voluntary integration program in 1965, when students were allowed to choose which school they would attend.
He was an eighth-grade student at the time and remembers approximately seven or eight Black students enrolling at Summerville Junior High School, while several others attended Chattooga High School.
The voluntary program marked an early stage in the integration of the county’s public schools.
Trion’s West Side School was also integrated into the independent Trion school system in 1965.
Trion West Side School. Photo Credit: African American Culture, Inc. Facebook page
McGinnis also recalls another development from the 1960s that could have significantly changed the future of public education in Chattooga County.
For a brief period, the Chattooga County and Trion City school systems considered the possibility of merging into a single school system.
The proposal never resulted in a merger, and the two systems continued operating independently.
Over time, many of the old community school buildings were demolished, converted to other uses or simply disappeared.
Today, only two public high schools remain in Chattooga County — Chattooga High School and Trion High School — operating under two separate school systems.
But the history of education in Chattooga County is much larger than those two schools.
For generations of local residents, schools in places like Teloga, Cloudland, Gore, Subligna, Holland, Pennville and the other rural communities were important parts of everyday life.
Their names remain part of Chattooga County’s history, recalling a time when children often attended school within walking distance of home and the local schoolhouse was one of the centers of community life.
Thanks to Gene McGinnis with the Chattooga County Historical Society for helping us with accuracy and input on this feature story.
Summerville Man Reports Identity Theft Involving More Than $11,000 In Unemployment Benefits
Summerville Police are investigating a report of identity theft after a local man discovered that more than $11,000 in unemployment benefits had allegedly been obtained using his personal information while he was incarcerated.
According to a Summerville Police Department incident report filed October 16, Timothy Ladale Boykin, 57, contacted police after receiving a summons from Chattooga County Magistrate Court concerning a case involving the Georgia Department of Labor.
Court documents reportedly indicated that Boykin had received $11,614 in unemployment benefits between March 28, 2020, and November 14, 2020.
However, Boykin told police that he was incarcerated in the Georgia Department of Corrections throughout that period and had neither applied for nor received any unemployment benefits.
According to the report, Boykin was housed at Coastal State Prison, Clayton County Transition Center and LaGrange Transition Center during the period in question.
Boykin told police he believes an unknown person or persons fraudulently used his identity to obtain unemployment benefits through the Georgia Department of Labor.
He requested that an official police report be filed to document the suspected identity theft.
The incident was recorded by the Summerville Police Department as identity fraud and impersonation.
No suspect was identified in the report, and no arrest was reported in connection with the complaint.
Chattoogaville Family Loses Home And Vehicles In Devastating Fire
A Chattooga County family caring for 11 foster children has lost their home, vehicles and personal belongings in a devastating fire, prompting an urgent appeal for community assistance.
The fire occurred at 28 Rowlls Road in the Chattoogaville community. According to information provided to WZQZ News by the Chattoogaville Fire Department, the department was paged at approximately 11:58. Firefighters from Chattoogaville, Holland, Lyerly and Hays responded to the blaze.
The residence was reported to be a total loss.
The home was occupied by Jimbo and LaRita Burke, who are foster parents caring for 11 children. Information from the fire department indicated that approximately 15 people, including four adults, may have been living in the residence.
Everyone reportedly escaped safely.
The family lost their home, vehicles and belongings, leaving them in immediate need of clothing, shoes, diapers, school supplies and other necessities.
With the children preparing to return to school next week, family members and friends are organizing donations to help meet their immediate needs.
Items Needed Include:
- Diapers in sizes 3T, 4T and 5T
- Overnight maxi pads
- New underwear for children and adults
- Clothing and shoes for all family members
- School clothing and supplies
Girls’ clothing is needed in sizes 2T, 3T, 5T and 10/12, while boys’ clothing is needed in sizes 4T, 14 and 16.
Men’s pants are needed in sizes 32/34 and 34/34. Women’s clothing needs include medium shirts, size 8 jeans and clothing in sizes 2X and 3X. Shoes are needed for everyone.
Aimee Larsen at The Well in Summerville has offered the building as a collection location for donations. The facility is located in the former Son Rise Church building behind the Chattooga County Courthouse.
Anyone wishing to donate clothing, shoes, basic necessities or financial assistance can contact April at 706-331-1963 to arrange a donation.
Relatives say LaRita Burke is understandably overwhelmed by the loss and are asking the community to help support the family during this difficult time.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Arrest Report - Sunday - October 18, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, October 18, 2026:
High Fire Danger Today As Dry Weather And Cool Fall Temperatures Continue Across Chattooga County
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect another beautiful fall day this Sunday, October 18, with abundant sunshine, cool temperatures and dry conditions. However, the National Weather Service is warning that low humidity, gusty winds and increasingly dry vegetation will create an elevated risk of wildfires this afternoon and evening.
The National Weather Service in Peachtree City has issued a Special Weather Statement concerning high fire danger conditions. Forecasters say relative humidity levels could fall to 30 percent or lower for at least four hours during the afternoon and evening. Northeasterly winds of 10 to 15 miles per hour, with occasional gusts reaching 20 to 25 miles per hour, will add to concerns about the potential for fires to spread quickly.
The combination of low humidity, dry leaves, grass and other vegetation means that even a small outdoor fire could become difficult to control.
Residents of Chattooga County, particularly those living in rural and wooded areas, are encouraged to avoid unnecessary outdoor burning. Anyone considering burning brush, leaves or other materials should first check with local fire authorities and the Georgia Forestry Commission concerning current burning regulations and restrictions.
Sunny And Cool Across Chattooga County Today
Sunday’s weather will otherwise be pleasant, with mostly clear skies and comfortable afternoon temperatures.
In Summerville, Trion, Menlo and Lyerly, temperatures are expected to reach around 68 degrees this afternoon. East winds will generally remain near 5 miles per hour, although stronger winds are possible in some areas, particularly along higher elevations and exposed ridgelines.
The dry air will make for comfortable conditions during the afternoon, but temperatures will fall quickly after sunset.
Tonight, skies will remain clear, with temperatures dropping to around 39 degrees across much of Chattooga County. Some sheltered valleys could experience slightly colder temperatures.
The National Weather Service says the combination of clear skies, dry air and light nighttime winds will allow temperatures to fall efficiently after sunset.
In the higher elevations of Northwest Georgia, including portions of Lookout Mountain, temperatures could approach the middle 30s. Frost may develop in some of the colder mountain locations, particularly farther northeast in Georgia.
Another Sunny Day Expected Monday
The new workweek will begin with more sunshine and seasonably cool temperatures.
Monday’s forecast calls for sunny skies and a high near 69 degrees. Winds will be calm during the morning before becoming northerly around 5 miles per hour during the afternoon.
Monday night will be clear, with temperatures falling to around 43 degrees.
High pressure will remain firmly established across the region, keeping clouds and precipitation to a minimum.
Temperatures Begin Warming Tuesday
A gradual warming trend will begin Tuesday as the large area of high pressure continues to dominate the weather pattern.
Tuesday will be sunny, with a high near 74 degrees. Winds will be light, and skies will remain clear Tuesday night as temperatures drop to around 45 degrees.
Wednesday will bring another sunny day, with temperatures climbing to approximately 76 degrees. Wednesday night will be clear, with a low near 46.
Thursday and Friday will feature nearly identical conditions, with abundant sunshine and afternoon highs around 75 degrees. Overnight temperatures will remain in the middle 40s.
Saturday is also expected to be sunny, with a high near 75 degrees.
Little Chance Of Rain During The Coming Week
One of the most significant features of the upcoming weather pattern will be the continued lack of rainfall.
According to the National Weather Service, a broad area of high pressure extending from the Gulf Coast toward the Great Lakes will help keep storm systems away from Northwest Georgia.
Forecasters expect rain chances to remain near zero across much of the region through the upcoming week.
While the extended period of sunshine will provide favorable conditions for outdoor activities, the lack of rainfall will also allow leaves, grasses and other vegetation to become increasingly dry.
National Weather Service forecasters say fire danger concerns will need to be monitored as the week progresses, particularly if afternoon humidity levels remain low or winds become stronger.
Fire Safety Important During Dry Fall Weather
The combination of falling leaves, dry vegetation and extended periods without rainfall can create favorable conditions for wildfires across Northwest Georgia.
Residents are reminded that fires can spread rapidly under low-humidity conditions, especially when winds increase.
The Georgia Forestry Commission encourages residents to check current burning conditions and applicable restrictions before starting outdoor fires.
Anyone conducting permitted outdoor burning should have water and fire suppression equipment readily available, remain with the fire at all times and ensure it is completely extinguished before leaving the area.
Residents should also exercise caution when disposing of smoking materials or operating equipment that could produce sparks near dry vegetation.
Overall, Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are in for an extended stretch of pleasant fall weather, with cool mornings, comfortable afternoons and plenty of sunshine.
The biggest weather concern will be the increasing dryness of vegetation and the potential for elevated wildfire danger, especially during afternoon hours.
Residents should enjoy the favorable weather while remaining mindful of outdoor fire safety as dry conditions continue across the region.
West Washington Street To Close Monday For Sewer Line Replacement
A section of West Washington Street in Summerville will be closed Monday, October 19, while city crews work to replace a sewer line.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters told WZQZ News on Friday that the city will be replacing a sewer line in the area.
According to a notice issued by the City of Summerville, West Washington Street will be closed to through traffic between Sunset Drive and Raymond Street from 8:30 AM until 4 PM Monday.
Motorists are encouraged to plan alternate routes and allow additional travel time during the closure.
The city says the work is part of its efforts to maintain municipal utilities. Drivers are urged to use caution around the work area.
Handgun Reported Stolen From Pickup Truck In Summerville
Summerville Police are investigating the reported theft of a handgun from a pickup truck parked at a residence on Kelly Street.
According to a Summerville Police Department incident report, officers received a complaint on Monday, October 12, around 10:45 AM concerning a firearm that had gone missing from a vehicle at 286 Kelly Street.
The complainant, 36-year-old Larry Van-Thomas Wright, told police that he had parked his 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck at the residence around 10 PM the previous evening. When he returned to the truck the following morning, he discovered that a black Taurus G3 handgun with silver accents was missing from the area between the driver and passenger seats.
Wright told police he suspected a teenage male he knew, saying the individual had previously been around the residence and had been asked to leave because of trouble. He described the individual as having black hair and a small black beard.
According to the report, Wright showed police the holster associated with the missing firearm, which had a Level 1 retention system and an ejector clip.
Police advised Wright to locate the handgun’s serial number and provide it to investigators.
The firearm was entered into the police report as stolen property. No arrest was reported, and the case was documented as theft by taking.
Deadline To Request Absentee Ballots For November Election Approaching
Chattooga County voters planning to cast absentee ballots in the November 3 General Election have until Friday, October 23, to submit their applications.
According to the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office, absentee ballot applications must be received by the county registrar by the October 23 deadline. Applications postmarked by that date but received afterward will not meet the deadline.
Georgia allows any registered voter to request an absentee ballot without providing a reason for voting by mail.
Voters can request an absentee ballot through the Georgia Secretary of State’s online absentee ballot portal or submit a completed application to the Chattooga County Registrar’s Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville.
Applicants must provide identifying information, including their Georgia driver’s license or state identification card number, if they have one. Voters without either number must provide an acceptable alternative form of identification.
Election officials encourage residents to request absentee ballots as soon as possible to allow sufficient time for processing, mailing and returning their ballots.
Completed absentee ballots must be received by 7 PM on Election Day, Tuesday, November 3. A postmark alone is not sufficient for most absentee voters. Ballots may be returned by mail or through authorized in-person return options.
Voters who prefer to cast their ballots in person can continue taking advantage of advance voting in Chattooga County through Friday, October 30. Advance voting is being conducted at the Registrar’s Office, with additional Saturday voting scheduled for October 24.
Residents can request an absentee ballot online at securemyabsenteeballot.sos.ga.gov and check their ballot status through Georgia’s My Voter Page at mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Mosteller Creek Bridge Replacement Could Be Years Away
Residents who travel Oak Hill Alpine Road near Lyerly could face several more years of restrictions on the Mosteller Creek Bridge as Chattooga County works toward securing funding for a replacement.
Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen says the Georgia Department of Transportation currently has the bridge scheduled for replacement sometime between 2030 and 2032. However, the county is hoping to move that timeline forward by obtaining funding through a bridge replacement grant program.
Allen says the county is working to have the project moved up in the state’s funding schedule, possibly allowing construction to begin as early as next year or the following year. Without additional funding, the bridge could remain partially restricted for several more years.
The bridge was closed earlier this year after GDOT identified structural problems. The closure created difficulties for residents, farmers and school transportation in the area because the bridge provides an important connection between Lyerly and Menlo.
GDOT subsequently allowed the bridge to reopen under strict restrictions. Traffic is limited to one lane, with stop signs installed at both ends, and vehicles weighing more than 10 tons are prohibited from crossing.
A September 28 letter from GDOT State Bridge Engineer Donn P. Digamon indicated that the bridge’s safe load capacity remains below Georgia’s legal load limits. The state requires warning signs and weight restrictions to remain in place.
The bridge has also been the scene of a recent incident involving damage to a concrete barricade. According to Allen, someone struck a barricade weighing approximately 7,000 pounds, knocking it into Mosteller Creek. County workers used an excavator to retrieve the barricade and reposition it along the roadway.
Allen said the county does not know who struck the barricade, but the incident was reported to law enforcement for monitoring.
The incident highlights concerns about the restrictions that will remain in place until the bridge can be replaced.
For now, motorists traveling Oak Hill Alpine Road should continue observing the posted weight limit, stop signs and single-lane traffic restrictions while the county pursues funding to accelerate the replacement project.