Report Of Shots Fired Investigated In Summerville

The Summerville Police Department investigated a report of possible gunfire early Sunday morning after a resident reported hearing what sounded like a gunshot outside a home on Raymer Street.

According to the incident report, officers were dispatched to 271 Raymer Street at approximately 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 20, after Chattooga 911 received a call from a resident who said he heard what sounded like a gunshot and believed someone had fired from a vehicle before leaving the area.

Officers located a silver-colored van that initially matched the caller’s description. However, after further investigation, police determined the driver was the complainant’s brother-in-law and was not believed to be involved in the incident.

Police searched the area but found no additional vehicles or suspicious individuals. The complainant later told officers he did not want to meet with them but requested extra patrols in the area during the early morning hours because of an ongoing issue. He was unable to provide any possible suspects.

The incident report indicates the investigation concluded without identifying a suspect, and no additional information was available.

Arrest Report – Saturday – July 25, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, July 25, 2026:

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Weekend Thunderstorms Give Way to Rising Heat and Humidity Next Week

Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for a classic mid-summer weather pattern over the coming days, featuring scattered afternoon thunderstorms to start the weekend followed by a steady climb in temperatures heading into next week.

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Storm Causes Flooding In Downtown Summerville, Lightning Damages County Communications Tower

A strong thunderstorm Friday afternoon caused flooding in downtown Summerville and damaged Chattooga County’s emergency communications system after lightning struck the county’s communications tower on Taylor’s Ridge.

Summerville City Manager Jason Winters told WZQZ News that the primary flooding occurred along Commerce Street in front of Bryant and Sons Lumber Company. Winters said the flooding was likely caused by a drainage tile beneath the state-owned railroad tracks becoming clogged with debris. He said the city has contacted the state and will work to have the tile cleared.

Meanwhile, Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen told WZQZ News that a lightning strike shortly after 5 p.m. caused major damage to the communications tower used by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, county fire departments and EMS. Allen said service was partially restored by 6 p.m. and was expected to be fully restored before nightfall. He said permanent repairs to the tower are expected to be costly but should be covered by the county’s insurance.

Press Release:

From Chattooga County Government, EMA/E-911

A lightning strike associated with a severe storm this (Friday)  afternoon impacted the Chattooga County Public Safety Communications Building, affecting portions of the county’s communications infrastructure.

Emergency communications remain operational, and dispatch services continue to support public safety agencies throughout the county. Personnel are actively working to restore all systems to full functionality.

Currently, there are no unmet public safety needs, and emergency services continue to respond to calls for service.

The public is encouraged to use 911 for emergencies as normal. Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as crews work to complete repairs.

Free Grief Support Seminar In September

Anyone coping with the loss of a loved one is invited to attend “My Grief Journey,” a free one-day seminar on Saturday, September 12, at Boynton Church of God in Ringgold.

The event will be held from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the church, located at 1956 Three Notch Road, in Ringgold, and lunch will be provided.

The six-hour seminar is designed for people who have experienced the loss of a loved one, as well as those who want to better understand how to help others through the grieving process. Topics will include common emotions associated with grief, such as anxiety, depression, anger, fear, difficulty sleeping and loss of concentration, while offering encouragement and practical guidance for healing.

The seminar will be facilitated by Jimmy Spurling and Neal Brown and is hosted by Boynton Church of God. There is no cost to attend.

Teloga Volunteer Fire Department Reminds Residents 2026 Membership Dues Are Due

The Teloga Volunteer Fire Department is reminding residents that 2026 membership dues are now due and encouraging community members to continue supporting the department’s mission of protecting the Teloga community.

Current members can conveniently pay their dues by placing their payment in the drop box located at the fire department or by stopping by the station on Monday nights after 6 p.m. to meet the firefighters and pay in person.

Residents who are not yet members are encouraged to join. The cost is $150 for the first year, with annual renewals of $50 each year after that.

Volunteer fire departments rely on community support to help provide emergency fire protection and other emergency services. Department officials say every membership helps keep the Teloga community safe.

 

Santa Special Train Tickets Now On Sale For Holiday Excursions To Summerville

Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Summerville Santa Special excursions through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.

This year’s holiday train rides are scheduled for November 28 and 29, December 5 and 6, and December 11 and 12. Tickets are $24 for everyone age 2 and older.

Passengers will travel to Summerville for a festive holiday experience that includes the Mistletoe Market and a free children’s activity tent. Visitors will also have time to shop, eat and enjoy downtown Summerville.

The Summerville Santa Special has become a popular family tradition, and organizers encourage passengers to reserve their seats early because the rides often sell out.

Tickets are available at www.tvrail.com under Train Rides, Seasonal Special Events, and Summerville Santa Special.

 

Search Continues For New Rome-Floyd Development Authority CEO

The Rome-Floyd County Development Authority is continuing its search for a new president and chief executive officer following the departure of Chattooga County native Spencer Hogg.

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Heat To Build Across Northwest Georgia Next Week

While showers and thunderstorms will keep temperatures a little lower through the weekend, much hotter weather is expected to return to northwest Georgia next week.

Highs in Chattooga County are forecast to climb into the lower 90s on Sunday, then reach the middle 90s by Tuesday. Heat index values are expected to top 100 degrees each afternoon, making it feel even hotter.

The National Weather Service says the hottest conditions are expected Monday through Wednesday as high humidity combines with the summer heat. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear light-colored clothing, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and check on elderly neighbors, children and pets.

While a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms remains in the forecast next week, widespread relief from the heat is not expected.

 

Arrest Report – Friday – July 24, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, July 24, 2026:

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