In Northwest Georgia, the echoes of steam engines and bustling platforms may have faded for many historic railroad depots, but for Summerville, the past is very much alive and driving a vibrant new economic future. While regular passenger and freight services ceased decades ago, the Summerville Depot stands as a testament to adaptive reuse, now a central hub for heritage tourism, drawing visitors from across the region.

Each fall, the depot springs to life, receiving excursion passenger trains from the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, transforming downtown Summerville into a bustling destination. This activity underscores a significant shift in the depot’s economic role: from a traditional freight and passenger nexus to a primary driver of local heritage tourism.

Georgia’s railroad heritage is deep-seated, dating back to the 1830s, with a critical role during the Civil War and the subsequent “Golden Age” of railroading. This era saw the rise of numerous depots, many of which, though repurposed, still stand today. Northwest Georgia boasts some of the state’s most venerable rail structures, including the Tunnel Hill Depot and the Ringgold Depot, both built by the state-owned Western & Atlantic Railroad around 1848-1850.

The Tunnel Hill Depot, constructed between 1848 and 1850, famously utilized rock excavated from Chetoogeta Mountain for the adjacent Historic Tunnel. Just a few miles away, the Ringgold Depot, completed in 1850, is a rare antebellum survivor, historically serving as a crucial supply point for both Union and Confederate forces during the Civil War. These structures are invaluable tangible links to the state’s pivotal role in national history.

The current Summerville Depot dates to 1918. It replaced two earlier depots, both lost to fire. The original 1889 depot was built with the arrival of the Chattanooga, Rome, and Columbus Railroad, and its successor succumbed to flames in May 1917, leading to the construction of the present-day building that anchors downtown today.

Today, Summerville’s depot is no longer a commercial freight hub, but its economic contribution is profoundly felt through heritage tourism. Attracting visitors via scenic train excursions, hosting community events, and serving as a focal point for downtown activities, the depot directly supports local businesses, from restaurants and shops to accommodations, enhancing the overall vitality of Summerville.

While Summerville’s depot thrives, it’s a unique success story among its Chattooga County neighbors. Towns like Trion, Menlo, and Lyerly once boasted their own depots, but today, only Summerville’s remains an active facility receiving passenger trains. Many other historic depots across Georgia have found new life as museums, community centers, or commercial establishments, preventing their decay and preserving their unique architectural and historical value.

The journey of Northwest Georgia’s historic railroad depots, from vital transportation arteries to cherished historical landmarks and economic drivers, mirrors a broader narrative of preservation and adaptive reuse. As the Summerville Depot demonstrates, these architectural treasures, rather than fading into obscurity, are finding new life, continuing to connect communities with their rich past while forging a prosperous future.

Get ready for a night of ghoulish delights and family-friendly fun! Mount Berry Mall is set to host its annual Malloween Celebration on Friday, October 31, 2025, starting at 6:00 PM. This highly anticipated, free event promises a safe and exciting trick-or-treating experience for children of all ages, along with opportunities for guests to show off their best costumes and even win big.

Families are invited to bring their little ghouls, goblins, superheroes, and princesses to fill their buckets with candy from numerous participating retailers throughout the mall. Complimentary candy will be distributed at storefronts while supplies last, ensuring every costumed participant gets a sweet treat in a well-lit and secure environment.

Beyond the traditional candy haul, this year’s Malloween adds an exciting interactive element. Attendees can keep an eye out for special QR codes strategically placed around the mall. Scanning these codes will enter them into a drawing for a chance to win a $100 gift card to their favorite Mount Berry Mall store, adding an extra layer of thrill for parents and older kids.

The Malloween Celebration offers a controlled and well-lit environment, providing parents with a worry-free alternative to traditional neighborhood trick-or-treating. It’s an ideal opportunity for families to enjoy the festive spirit of Halloween together, showcase their creative costumes, and make lasting memories.

The Mount Berry Mall’s annual Malloween Celebration is a free event, open to the public. Mark your calendars for Friday, October 31, 2025, at 6:00 PM, and prepare for a frightfully good time filled with candy, costumes, and community spirit. Don’t forget to bring your biggest candy bags and your best Halloween cheer!

Event Details:

What: Mount Berry Mall’s Annual Malloween Celebration
When: Friday, October 31, 2025, at 6:00 PM
Where: Mount Berry Mall,
Cost: FREE

Activities: Trick-or-treating, free candy (while supplies last), costume showcase, QR code scan for a chance to win a $100 gift card.

A 52-year-old man was arrested last week following a shoplifting incident at a local Walmart that led to a brief foot pursuit near the train tracks and required assistance from the Summerville Police Department to identify the suspect.

Kevin Alphonso Boykin, 52, was taken into custody on October 1, 2025, and charged with Theft by Shoplifting after reportedly attempting to steal multiple items, including several watches and a scarf, from the store.

According to a report released by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, officers were dispatched to Walmart shortly after noon on October 1 regarding a shoplifting suspect—described as a black male wearing all black clothing—who had allegedly concealed items in his pants and fled the building.

A responding deputy was advised that the suspect was heading toward the train tracks near Back Penn Rd. Upon arriving in the area, the deputy located a male fitting the description several hundred yards away on the tracks. However, the suspect spotted the patrol vehicle, turned, and disappeared back into the wood line.

CCTV Footage Leads to Breakthrough

While the deputy continued the search operation in the area, another deputy returned to Walmart to review surveillance footage. The store’s CCTV captured a clear image of the suspect.

Deputies shared the security image with other local law enforcement forces. A Summerville Police Department detective successfully identified the individual as Kevin Boykin.

The video footage also provided details of the theft, showing Boykin taking several items past the points of sale. When confronted by loss prevention staff, the suspect reportedly placed some of the stolen merchandise into a random shopping buggy being pushed by an elderly female customer before attempting to exit the store.

Capture and Recovery

With a positive identification, deputies soon located and detained Boykin in the 100 block of Memorial Drive.

When deputies searched the suspect, they recovered several watches and a black scarf from his pockets. These items still had price tags and plastic material consistent with newly stolen merchandise.

The recovered property was taken back to Walmart, where loss prevention confirmed the items were stolen earlier that day. Store video showed Boykin arriving at the store around 11:54 AM and spending time in the shoe aisle removing watches from their packaging before exiting the store without paying around 12:37 PM, coinciding with the initial call time.

Mr. Boykin was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident. The stolen property was successfully returned to the Loss Prevention agent.

From Summerville to Lyerly, today, area residents will have a diverse slate of activities to choose from, cementing the day as a major community triple-header.

Summerville Steps Back in Time

The primary draw for many will be the Summerville Mini Renaissance Festival, running throughout the day at the historic Summerville Depot.

The festival promises a vibrant atmosphere complete with costumed performers, live entertainment, hands-on games, and displays by local artisans. It offers a family-friendly glimpse into a bygone era right in the heart of the community.

A special feature of the Renaissance Festival is the scheduled arrival of a visiting steam engine from the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, which is expected to pull into the Depot gates at 1:00 PM sharp, offering a unique blend of historical transport and fantasy fun.

Lyerly Celebrates Down Home Day

While Summerville is looking toward the Middle Ages, the community of Lyerly will be focusing on local tradition and heritage with the Annual Down Home Day.

Held at Angus McLeod Park, the event runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and is designed as a celebration of the Lyerly community spirit. Families can enjoy local vendors, traditional food, and a range of activities suitable for all ages. The event aims to highlight the rich history and close-knit nature of the area.

Last Chance for Library Book Bargains

For readers and media enthusiasts, the third major attraction of the day is the Chattooga County Public Library Book Sale.

The library sale, which features a wide array of used books, DVDs, and other media, concludes today, making Saturday the final opportunity for residents to grab discounted reads and support a vital cause. All proceeds from the sale go directly towards supporting the library’s essential programs and expansion efforts. Residents are encouraged to visit early for the best selection of materials.

Georgia is significantly ramping up its efforts to combat the growing crisis of elder abuse, implementing stricter enforcement measures that have led to a marked increase in prosecutions across the state. The intensified commitment is supported by new specialized law enforcement units, dedicated prosecutorial roles, and reinforced state funding aimed at protecting the state’s most vulnerable population.

To ensure these cases are handled effectively and consistently across Georgia’s 159 counties, state leadership has invested heavily in creating a fortified infrastructure dedicated solely to combating abuse against at-risk adults.

Key state initiatives include:

Dedicated Prosecution: The creation of a statewide elder abuse prosecutor position, focused on coordinating complex investigations and ensuring rigorous prosecution of perpetrators.
Specialized Law Enforcement: The establishment of a GBI Unit dedicated to crimes against at-risk adults, providing specialized investigative resources to local law enforcement agencies.
Increased Funding: Enhanced financial support has been directed to agencies responsible for investigating and mediating cases of elder abuse and neglect.

“Georgia is sending a clear message: those who exploit or harm our seniors will face the full weight of the law,” said a spokesperson for the Governor’s office. “By creating specialized state units and funding positions focused purely on this crime, we are ensuring that justice is delivered swiftly and effectively.”

Financial Exploitation Classified as Serious Felony

Under Georgia law, financial exploitation of an elderly or disabled person carries severe consequences, reflecting the devastating impact these crimes have on victims’ security and well-being.

According to Tobin Injury Law, the law categorizes financial exploitation as a felony offense. Convictions are punishable by a term of one to 20 years in jail and/or a fine of up to $50,000, underscoring the severity with which the state views crimes targeting financial independence.

Empowering Seniors with Prevention Resources

Recognizing that education is a critical component of prevention, the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division has launched comprehensive resources designed to help older adults safeguard themselves against predatory behavior.

The division’s free publication, The Georgia Consumer Protection Guide for Older Adults, serves as a vital tool for defense against fraud and exploitation. The guide provides essential information on a range of topics critical for senior safety, including:

• Avoiding scams specifically targeting seniors.
• Protecting against identity theft and navigating credit and debt issues.
• Making informed decisions about long-term care and advance directives.
• Identifying and reporting elder abuse.

The guide is designed to empower older adults to make wise choices regarding their finances and well-being, providing actionable strategies to protect them from sophisticated fraudulent schemes common in the digital age.  You can find a printable version of the guide HERE

State officials urge all Georgians to remain vigilant and report any suspected instances of exploitation or abuse to local law enforcement or the appropriate state agencies.

A tragic fire involving a pull-behind camper in the 100 block of Ridgeway Road has resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, authorities confirmed Tuesday of this week. The Georgia State Fire Marshal’s Office has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deadly blaze.

Emergency crews responded to a residential property on Ridgeway Road after reports indicated a camper was engulfed in flames. Despite the rapid response by multiple agencies, including the area fire departments and other local emergency services, the fire proved fatal.

Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy McElhaney confirmed that two victims were pronounced deceased at the scene. While one individual has been tentatively identified, the identity of the second victim is still being processed, and authorities are awaiting further confirmation from the Medical Examiner’s Office.  No names have been released.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the complex investigation into the cause and origin of the fire. Officials have not yet released specific details regarding potential factors contributing to the blaze, emphasizing that the inquiry is in its early stages.

Further information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.

The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has announced that it has begun administering COVID-19 vaccinations at local health departments across the state. This initiative, which commenced earlier this week, aims to make vaccine access more readily available to Georgians, with doses provided based on current supply.

Residents interested in receiving a COVID-19 vaccine are strongly advised to contact their local health department prior to visiting. This precautionary step is crucial to confirm vaccine availability and ensure the department has doses in stock, applicable for both COVID-19 shots and other routine immunizations.

Dr. Gary Voccio, health director for the ten-county Georgia Department of Public Health Northwest Health District, emphasized the importance of vaccination for vulnerable populations. “The highest death rates from COVID-19 are among the very old and the very young,” Dr. Voccio stated, underscoring the recommendation for individuals in these age groups to get vaccinated.

Dr. Voccio also provided key guidance on vaccine administration. He confirmed that individuals can “mix and match” vaccine manufacturers, meaning a subsequent dose does not have to be from the same company as any previous doses received. Furthermore, for those who have recently contracted COVID-19, it is recommended to wait at least three months before getting vaccinated.

This statewide rollout by the DPH aims to enhance public health protection by expanding access to COVID-19 vaccines. Residents are encouraged to reach out to their local health department to confirm availability and schedule their vaccination.

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The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program in Chattooga County has officially opened registration for families seeking assistance with Christmas gifts for their children this holiday season. The first sign-up session is being held today, Saturday, October 11, 2025, providing an early opportunity for local families to participate.

All registration sessions are scheduled at the Summerville Recreation Center, located on Hwy 100 in Summerville, GA 30747. Sessions will run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on the following dates:

• Today, Saturday, October 11, 2025
• Saturday, November 22, 2025
• Saturday, November 29, 2025

Families are strongly encouraged to attend one of these dates to ensure their children are registered for the program. It is important to note that the absolute last day to sign up for toys will be November 30, 2025. No registrations will be accepted after this date.

To be eligible for the Toys for Tots program, registrants must ensure that they are signing up only for children who currently live in their home and are in their direct custody. This policy helps the program verify need and distribute toys fairly within the community.

For any questions regarding eligibility, required documentation, or the Toys for Tots program in Chattooga County, residents are invited to contact Christie William directly at 706-859-1140.

The Toys for Tots program relies on the generosity of the community through donations and volunteers to fulfill its mission each year. Further announcements regarding toy drop-off locations and volunteer opportunities will be made in the coming weeks.

A devastating two-vehicle collision on Dry Creek Road Thursday afternoon has resulted in the tragic death of a 15-year-old male motorcyclist. The incident, which occurred at approximately 4:18 PM, took the life of Armuchee High School student, Elijah Andrew Espy.

According to Georgia State Troopers, the fatal accident involved a red Honda XR400 motorcycle and a black Tesla S. The investigation revealed that the teenager was traveling northbound on Dry Creek Road. Simultaneously, the Tesla was proceeding southbound.

As the Tesla approached a driveway, its driver slowed and initiated a left turn. This maneuver unfortunately led to the motorcycle, traveling in the opposite direction, striking the right passenger door of the Tesla. The force of the impact was severe, ejecting the young motorcyclist from his vehicle. He came to rest on the west shoulder of Dry Creek Road.

Tragically, the 15-year-old sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

In response to the gravity of the incident, Troop A’s Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team (SCRT) was notified and responded to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

The driver of the Tesla, was identified as Irving Hendrick, age 61, escaped the collision without any injuries. Both Espy and Hendrick were residents on Dry Creek Road

The investigation by the Georgia State Patrol is ongoing. Further details are expected to be released as they become available.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, October 10, 2025:

Northwest Georgia and Chattooga County residents are preparing for a dominant stretch of beautiful weather, featuring abundant sunshine and gradually rising temperatures from today (Friday) through Monday. While the four-day outlook promises ideal conditions for outdoor activities, the extended dry spell offers no immediate relief for ongoing drought concerns across the region.

The stable conditions are being orchestrated by a robust ridge of high pressure settling over the Southeast. This atmospheric pattern, defined by sinking air, effectively suppresses cloud development and precipitation, resulting in wall-to-wall sunshine through the weekend.

Warm Days, Crisp Nights

The forecast indicates a steady warming trend. High temperatures, which are expected to reside comfortably in the mid-70s today, will climb daily, pushing close to the 80°F mark by Monday.

The evenings will maintain a distinct autumnal feel. Overnight lows are projected to dip into the low to mid-50s, providing crisp, cool conditions perfect for sleeping or gathering around a fire. Winds are expected to remain generally light throughout the period, reinforcing the settled, calm atmosphere.

Dry Spell Deepens Drought Concerns

While the sunny skies are welcome news for weekend plans, the lack of precipitation is becoming increasingly problematic for local water resources and agriculture.

The forecast explicitly calls for a dry period, with no significant rainfall anticipated through Monday. For parts of Northwest Georgia already grappling with drought conditions, this prolonged stability means that existing deficits are likely to remain the same or potentially worsen over the coming days.

High pressure systems, while guaranteeing fair weather, are the fundamental culprits behind these extended dry spells. They act as a meteorological barrier that deflects storm systems and moisture away from the region.

Area residents and farmers are advised to remain mindful of water usage and adhere to any local burn bans that might be in effect due to the low humidity and persistent dryness.

The sunny, settled conditions are expected to continue into the start of the work week before any potential changes in the larger weather pattern are anticipated.

Another exciting night of high school football is on tap tonight on WZQZ.  The Chattooga Indians are fresh off one of the biggest upset wins in at least the last decade with their win over defending region champion Fannin County last week.  The Indians, who are 2-5 overall on the season, suddenly find themselves in the thick of the playoff race with a 2-2 region record which puts them at 5th place currently in the region.  Chattooga will be looking to pull their second straight upset tonight on the road in Dalton against the 2nd place Christian Heritage Lions.  Christian Heritage is 4-3 overall on the season and 3-1 in region play.  Christian Heritage has notched wins against Pepperell, Dade County, Coosa and Gordon Central.  Their losses came against Heritage Ringgold, Landmark Christian and Gordon Lee.

The Trion Bulldogs will return to the friendly confines of Sam R. McCain Stadium tonight to take on Westbrook Christian from Rainbow City, AL.  Trion is coming off a tough road loss last week to Mount Zion 41-17 which dropped the Dawgs to 3rd place in the region.  Trion has yet to win two consecutive games this year but conversely that have yet to lose two consecutive games as well.  Their record currently stands at 3-4 overall and 1-1 in region play.  Trion will be facing an unfamiliar opponent tonight in the Westbrook Christian Warriors.  Westbrook is 5-1 on the season with wins over Glencoe, Saks, Locust Fork, Munford and Ohatchee.  Their lone loss on the year came back 3 weeks ago to Piedmont.

Both games will be broadcast live on the WZQZ Facebook page tonight.  The Chattooga vs Christian Heritage game will also be broadcast on the radio at 99.1 FM and AM 1180.  Kickoff for both games will be at 7:30 pm.

Local dollars are set to receive a major boost as the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce officially announces the relaunch of the “Love Local Community Card” program. To introduce the revamped system and demonstrate its benefits, the Chamber will host a catered Lunch & Learn event on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at the Chattooga Civic Center.

The popular Love Local program, designed to keep spending within Chattooga County boundaries, returns with significant upgrades aimed at streamlining the experience for both consumers and participating merchants.

The Chamber has partnered with digital gift card platform Yiftee, which has implemented improvements focused on user-friendliness. Merchants can expect a smoother integration process, while customers will benefit from a more seamless purchasing and redemption experience.

Focus on Business Enrollment and Corporate Incentives

The comprehensive Lunch & Learn is mandatory for any business interested in leveraging the program. Attendees will receive a detailed walkthrough covering three main areas:

• How the Card Works: A step-by-step guide on the mechanics of the digital program for both buyers and sellers.
• Merchant Enrollment: Information on how local businesses can easily and affordably get listed on the Love Local card network.
• Bulk Purchasing for Incentives: A special segment dedicated to local employers seeking engaging ways to reward staff. Businesses are encouraged to learn how they can buy Love Local cards in bulk for employee incentives, bonuses, and holiday gifts, ensuring those corporate dollars directly support local services and shops.

Sneak Peeks and Networking

The luncheon will also feature a special showcase of current businesses already participating in the Love Local network, offering attendees a sneak peek at the diverse range of participating shops, restaurants, and service providers. Further preview information is available on the Chamber’s official website prior to the event.

The Lunch & Learn, which includes a catered meal, is open to the public; however, reservations are strictly required due to capacity. Interested attendees are advised to view the event page on the Chattooga Chamber website for specific reservation policies and deadlines.

Event Details:

What: Chattooga Chamber Lunch & Learn: Love Local is Back!!
When: Tuesday, October 21, 2025, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Where: Chattooga Civic Center, 44 GA-48, Summerville, GA 30747
Attendance: The public is invited. Reservations are required for the catered lunch. HERE

A Northwest Georgia man, Damien Doming, was sentenced to life in prison on Tuesday, October 1, 2025, after a jury found him guilty of multiple severe child sexual abuse charges. The conviction stems from the sexual assault of a nine-year-old child, his former step-daughter, that occurred when they resided together in Ringgold.

Doming was convicted of Aggravated Sodomy on a Child Less than Ten Years of Age, Aggravated Child Molestation, Incest, and Child Molestation. The egregious crimes came to light in 2024 when the then nine-year-old victim bravely disclosed the abuse, which had transpired while Doming served as her stepfather.

The extensive investigation into the case was spearheaded by former Catoosa County Sheriff’s Office Detective Brittany Gilleland. The prosecution, led by Senior Assistant District Attorney Beth Evans, successfully presented the compelling evidence to the jury, securing Doming’s conviction.

Key support during the legal process was provided by a dedicated team, including Victim Advocate Shelby Armstrong, Chief Investigator Christy Smith, Investigator Daniel Thacker, and Administrative Assistants Rachel Moon and Annabelle Carter.

A crucial component of the investigation involved forensic interviews conducted by Senior Forensic Interviewer Holly Kittle of the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC). The CAC, led by Director Anthony Dye, was identified as a critical partner in protecting the circuit’s children, providing a safe and supportive environment for the child to share her experience.

Catoosa County Superior Court Judge Chris Arnt handed down the life sentence to Doming, ensuring he will serve his remaining years in prison for the heinous acts committed against a vulnerable child.

On Saturday, October 11, 2025, Chattooga County will host a big day of festivals and community events.

The Summerville Mini Renaissance Festival at the Summerville Depot, which will run throughout the day. This festival will include live entertainment, games, local artisans, and costumed performers. A special attraction is a steam engine from the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, arriving at 1 PM.

At the same time, Lyerly will celebrate its heritage with the Annual Down Home Day at Angus McLeod Park from 10 AM to 2 PM. This event will feature local vendors, food, and activities suitable for families, highlighting the community spirit of Lyerly.

Additionally, the Chattooga County Public Library will have its Book Sale, offering a wide range of used books and media. This sale supports the library’s programs and expansion, and it will end on Saturday, so residents are encouraged to visit early for the best selection.

Overall, the day promises diverse activities for everyone in the community. Residents are invited to take part in these free events and enjoy what the county has to offer.

Georgia’s deer hunters are gearing up for the start of the 2025 Primitive Weapons Deer Season, which officially begins on Saturday, October 11, 2025. This season provides an extended window for hunters, running through January 11, 2026, and allows for the pursuit of either-sex deer across much of the state.

The Primitive Weapons season is unique in its allowances, permitting the use of traditional black powder rifles and other primitive muzzle loading firearms. Crucially, this period also extends to any weapon legal for the general firearms deer season, offering broad flexibility for participants. Archery hunters are also welcome to use their equipment during this primitive weapons time frame.

The extended season provides hunters with an early opportunity to take to the woods, preceding the full statewide general firearms season in many areas. Hunters are permitted to take either-sex deer, subject to daily and seasonal bag limits, which should be verified for specific management areas.

Key Details for Hunters:

• Season Dates: Saturday, October 11, 2025 – Saturday, January 11, 2026
• Weapon Types: Approved muzzleloaders (including blackpowder rifles and primitive muzzleloading firearms), and any weapon legal for the regular firearms deer season. Archery equipment is also permitted.
• Bag Limit: Either-sex deer hunting is allowed.
• Youth Firearms Weekend: Hunters should note that the initial week of the Primitive Weapons season will coincide with the Youth Firearms Weekend (Oct. 11-17), offering specific opportunities for younger hunters under designated guidelines.

Important Reminders & Resources:

Hunters are strongly advised to consult the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) for the most up-to-date and specific regulations, county-by-county restrictions, and detailed maps. The official 2025–26 Georgia Hunting Regulations Guide is an indispensable resource.

It is particularly important to verify regulations for your specific hunting area, as geographic restrictions apply in some counties. For instance, parts of Forsyth County permit only shotguns and muzzle loaders, underscoring the need for local verification.

Responsible and ethical hunting practices are paramount to ensure the continuation of Georgia’s rich hunting heritage and the health of its deer population. Hunters are encouraged to prioritize safety, respect private property, and accurately identify their targets.

For more information and to access the full regulations guide, visit the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division website.

A Summerville resident was killed Thursday evening, October 9, 2025, in a fatal motor vehicle crash involving a motorcycle and a sedan in Chattooga County. The Chattooga County Coroner’s office and the Georgia State Patrol are investigating the incident that occurred in the 6500 block of Dry Creek Road.

Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy McElhaney was called to the scene, where he pronounced the operator of the motorcycle dead. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending family notification.

The collision involved a motorcycle and a sedan. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the cause of the crash or the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Georgia State Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation. Further information, including the identity of the deceased and details of the crash, will be released by their public information officer as it becomes available.

Chattooga County property owners can expect their 2025 tax bills in the mail, following a brief delay attributed to state compliance requirements. To ensure residents have sufficient time to prepare, the county has officially extended the payment deadline.

County Commissioner Andy Allen announced that the due date for 2025 property taxes has been moved from the traditional date to Tuesday, December 10, 2025.

According to Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton, the processing of the bills was intentionally held up for a few days to guarantee full compliance with the state’s new requirements under HB581. Hampton noted that local residents will also see a refreshed design when they open their statements.

“Nobody loves paying taxes, but our mission is to make it as easy as possible,” Commissioner Hampton stated. “We love to serve our citizens and are happy to help—we just ask that you bring a copy of your statement for fastest service.”

Key Information for Taxpayers

The Extended Deadline

The extension to December 10, 2025, provides taxpayers with nearly an extra month to arrange finances or communicate with mortgage lenders. Interest and penalties will only accrue on the unpaid portion of the bill after this new due date.

Taxpayers are reminded that they have the option to make smaller incremental payments toward their total bill balance before the final due date.

Who Receives a Bill?

If you have already paid: If property tax payments were made prior to September 17, 2025, residents should disregard the newly mailed bill, as the account has already been settled.

Property Sales: Taxes are levied as of January 1st of the tax year. If a property was sold during 2025, the original owner on record as of January 1st will receive the bill. The Tax Commissioner’s Office will also notify the purchaser if their correct information is available.

Mortgage Companies: While mortgage companies typically request a file directly from the county to process payments, the Tax Commissioner’s Office strongly recommends forwarding a copy of the new bill to your mortgage company just to ensure timely payment.

Payment and Office Information

All payments, inquiries, and payment arrangements must be handled through the Tax Commissioner’s Office, which is the same location where citizens renew their vehicle tags. The Assessor’s Office is unable to process payments or set up payment plans.

Payment Options include:

Online: Payments can be made securely at the official county website: www.chattoogacountytax.com. Paid receipts can also be printed from this portal.
Mail: Payments can be mailed to the office address.
Night Drop: A secure night drop box is available on the side of the Tax Commissioner’s building for after-hours payments.
In Person: Payments are accepted during regular business hours.

Assessing Values and Appeals

The window for appealing 2025 property values is now closed. Any deadlines for property tax returns and exemption applications will reopen in the Assessor’s Office starting January 1, 2026, and will run through April 1, 2026.

Taxpayers should ensure their mailing address is current. Bills are mailed to the address provided at the time of purchase unless an update was officially filed with the Assessor’s Office.

In September, Georgia’s net tax collections reached nearly $3.27 billion, an increase of $60.3 million, or 1.9 percent, compared to the same month in FY 2025. Year-to-date collections are $8.17 billion, up $64.5 million, or 0.8 percent, from September 2024.

Key factors driving September’s tax revenue growth include Individual Income Tax collections of about $1.49 billion, which rose by $45.4 million, or 3.2 percent. Individual Income Tax refunds decreased by $14.8 million, while withholding payments increased by $19.9 million, and estimated payments were up by $9 million.

Sales and Use Tax collections totaled $1.59 billion, a rise of $45 million or 2.9 percent from last year. However, net Sales and Use Tax dropped by $26.7 million. Corporate Income Tax collections grew by $45.2 million, or 7.6 percent. Motor Fuel Tax revenues increased by $3.6 million, while Motor Vehicle Tag & Title Fee collections went up by $6.5 million, though Title ad Valorem Tax collections fell by $6.7 million.