Georgia Officials Warn Of DDS Text Scam Targeting Drivers

Georgia officials are warning residents to be on alert after a wave of scam text messages claiming to come from the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).

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Summerville Man Arrested After Alleged Lewd Acts Observed In Dalton

A Summerville man has been arrested following an incident in Dalton where police say he was observed performing lewd acts inside his vehicle.

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6-Year-Old Shot Wednesday Afternoon in Rome Housing Area

Rome Police are investigating after a 6-year-old child was shot Wednesday afternoon, April 8, 2026, near the intersection of East 13th Street and Crane Street in the John Graham Homes area.

According to Rome Police, officers responded shortly after 3:08 p.m. to reports of shots fired. When they arrived, they found a 6-year-old boy suffering from a gunshot wound to the right leg. The child was transported to a local hospital and is currently listed in stable condition.

Investigators say preliminary information indicates the child was not the intended target. Police believe the shots were fired from a moving vehicle.

The case remains an active and ongoing investigation. Rome Police are asking anyone with information, video footage, or who may have witnessed anything in the area to call 9-1-1 immediately, noting that even the smallest detail could be critical.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Dry Pattern, Fire Danger Rising Across Northwest Georgia

Chattooga County and the rest of Northwest Georgia are facing an extended stretch of dry weather, increasing fire danger, and a significant warm-up heading into the weekend and early next week.

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Information Sought In Burglary, Theft At Saddle Ridge School During Spring Break

The Walker County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help as detectives investigate a burglary and theft at Saddle Ridge Elementary-Middle School in Rock Spring.

According to investigators, the incident happened sometime between March 27, 2026, and April 6, 2026, during spring break for Walker County Schools.

Authorities said someone entered the Forest Kindergarten building, located about 300 yards in front of the school, by removing a door hasp.

Once inside, the suspect or suspects reportedly destroyed or stole several items, including a ninja obstacle course, zip line, hammocks, cargo nets, and camping chairs.

The total value of the damaged and stolen property is estimated at $2,330.

Anyone with information is asked to send tips through the Walker County Sheriff’s Office website or call 706-638-1909.

Investigation Underway After Cash Reported Stolen At Summerville Dollar Tree

Summerville Police are investigating a reported theft involving lost money at a Dollar Tree store in Summerville, with the incident reported on April 1, 2026.

According to the complainant,  she discovered $100 missing after visiting the store and later contacted law enforcement.

Surveillance footage reviewed by store management reportedly showed a white male suspect picking up the cash after it was dropped and leaving the store. The suspect was described as wearing a blue shirt and gray shorts, and driving away in a gold Chevrolet C1500 pickup truck.

The complainant advised officers she wished to pursue charges. Authorities continue working to identify the suspect using video evidence.

Vehicle Reported Stolen From Raymond Street In Summerville

A vehicle theft reported in Summerville is under investigation after a resident discovered her car missing from her property on Raymond Street.

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Fire Danger High As Dry Weather Continues Across Chattooga County

Dry conditions and near-normal temperatures are expected to hold steady across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia through the remainder of the week, but it’s the fire danger that has officials on alert.

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Spring Warmth And Daily Rain Chances Settle Over Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia

Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia are waking up to a mild and slightly damp start this Tuesday, with brief sprinkles and patchy fog possible through the morning hours—especially in low-lying areas and near rivers and creeks. Little to no accumulation is expected, but reduced visibility could impact early travel.

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Summerville Announces Hydrant Flushing Today in Highway 48, Fish Hatchery Road, and Smallen Road Areas

Residents in Chattooga County who are served by the Summerville Water Department are being notified of planned hydrant flushing set for Monday, March 30th, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

According to the City of Summerville Fire Department, crews will be working in areas including Highway 48, Smallen Road, and Fish Hatchery Road as part of routine system maintenance.

During this time, residents may notice brief periods of water discoloration. Officials say this is normal and safe, and if it occurs, simply running your tap for a few minutes should allow the water to clear.

The maintenance work includes hydrant lubrication, flushing, and function checks, all of which are essential to ensure the system remains reliable and ready for emergencies.

City officials thank residents for their patience and cooperation as they complete this important work to keep the community protected.