Arrest Report - Monday - May 4, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, May 4, 2026:
Strong Storms Possible Midweek Across Northwest Georgia
Northwest Georgia will see a stretch of warm, quiet weather to start the week, but conditions are expected to change by midweek as a storm system moves into the region.
High pressure is keeping skies mostly clear Monday, with afternoon temperatures reaching the upper 70s to near 80 degrees. Tuesday will remain warm, with highs climbing into the upper 70s and mid 80s as clouds begin to increase ahead of the next weather system.
By Wednesday into Thursday, a cold front will push into northwest Georgia, bringing a higher chance of showers and thunderstorms. Some storms could become strong, with the potential for gusty winds, frequent lightning, and locally heavy rainfall.
Forecasters say instability will build during the day Wednesday, increasing the likelihood of more intense storms by the afternoon and evening hours.
After the front moves through, cooler and drier air will settle into the region. High temperatures will drop back into the 70s by Friday, with overnight lows falling into the 40s and low 50s.
Rain chances may linger into the weekend, but overall conditions are expected to be calmer compared to the midweek period.
One Dead Following House Fire In Floyd County
Authorities say one person is dead following a house fire early Sunday morning on Old Lindale Road in Floyd County.
Emergency crews responded to the fire during the overnight hours, where reports indicated flames coming from a residence and a possible person trapped inside.
According to reports, one individual was found deceased at the scene, while another person was transported for medical treatment.
The cause of the fire has not yet been officially confirmed, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Officials have not released the identity of the victim.
Fuller Settling Into Role As Northwest Georgia’s New Congressman
Georgia’s newest Congressman, Clay Fuller, is beginning to find his footing in Washington after winning the special election to represent the 14th Congressional District.
Fuller, a Republican from Lookout Mountain, took office in April following his victory in a runoff election to replace former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Since arriving in Washington, Fuller has already begun making moves, including passing his first piece of legislation as he works to establish himself among Georgia’s congressional delegation.
The former Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney entered Congress with strong backing from former President Donald Trump and defeated Democrat Shawn Harris in the April runoff election.
Fuller now represents Georgia’s 14th District, which includes much of Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County.
Political observers say Fuller is working to quickly transition from a local prosecutor to a federal lawmaker, balancing expectations from constituents back home while navigating the demands of Congress.
Leroy Massey Elementary To Hold Color Run Friday
Leroy Massey Elementary School is gearing up for a fun and colorful event this week as students and staff prepare for the annual Color Run on Friday, May 8.
School officials say the event is designed to create lasting memories while encouraging students to stay active and engaged in a fun environment.
Parents are encouraged to help students come prepared by sending appropriate closed-toe shoes, a water bottle to stay hydrated, a change of clothes, and sunglasses to protect from the sun and color powder.
Organizers also ask that all items be clearly labeled with the student’s name, grade, and homeroom to help keep track of belongings.
The event is exclusively for students and staff.
Trion Golf Team Competes In Area Tournament Today
The Trion High School golf team traveled to Greensboro, Georgia over the weekend to compete in the GHSA Area Tournament today.
The Bulldogs enter postseason play with several golfers putting together steady performances this season. Clayton Loughridge leads the team with 414 total strokes and a 59.1 stroke average, followed by Danalee Lively with 428 total strokes and a 61.1 average.
Lincoln Hefner and Mollie Corbin are tied at 440 total strokes, both averaging 62.9. Kendal Loughridge follows closely with 441 total strokes and a 63 average. Isaac Helwig enters with 469 total strokes and a 67 average, while Blake Bramlett has 477 total strokes and a 68.14 average.
Those numbers were recorded prior to Trion’s match against Pepperell last Friday at Trion Golf Course.
Today’s Area Tournament will determine which teams and individuals advance in postseason competition, as Trion looks to make a strong showing in Greensboro.
Ducky Derby Returns To Summerville May 9
Summerville Main Street’s Ducky Derby will return Saturday, May 9, for a full day of family fun outside the Summerville Depot.
The event will run from 10 AM until 3 PM and will feature the duck race down Summerville Town Creek, food and craft vendors, kids’ activities, music, entertainment, and the first 2026 arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Steam Engine filled with passengers.
Train enthusiasts will also get to see TVRM Steam Engine 4501, which is returning to Summerville in its classic Southern Railway passenger livery as part of TVRM’s 65th anniversary celebration and the locomotive’s 115th birthday.
The Ducky Derby race begins at 1:30 PM. Rubber duck adoption tickets are available for a chance to win cash prizes, with $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $100 for third place. Tickets are $5 each, six for $25, 12 for $50, or 25 for $100.
Tickets may be purchased at Summerville City Hall, from Summerville Main Street volunteers, or at the Summerville Main Street Office at 179 Union Street. Tickets will also be sold at the event from 10 AM until 1:15 PM.
The event will also include a Jeep Cruise-In on East Washington Street, a working demonstration of the Summerville Turntable, and a Ducky Calling Contest at 1:15 PM, with registration beginning at 12:30 PM.
The free public event is sponsored by Summerville Main Street, GP Federal Credit Union, and Pro Roof GA.
Homeschool Group Hosting Lunch Fundraiser
All God’s Children Homeschool Group is hosting a preorder lunch fundraiser for the Summerville and Trion communities.
Organizers will deliver premade lunches on Wednesday, May 6 at 12 PM. Each $5 meal includes a hotdog, chips, a cookie, and a bottle of water, with the option to add an extra hotdog for $1.
The group is encouraging local businesses and residents to participate, with delivery available to make it convenient for workplaces and organizations.
All orders must be placed by Monday, May 4 to allow time for preparation.
Payment can be made through Venmo, Cash App, or cash at delivery. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward supporting the homeschool group and its activities.
Crochet Club Meets Tuesday At Chattooga Library
The Chattooga County Library in Summerville will host its Crochet Club on Tuesday from 2 PM to 3 PM.
The group meets at the library located at 360 Farrar Drive and is open to adults ages 18 and up. Participants are invited to bring their own crochet, knitting, cross stitch, or sewing projects to work on while enjoying conversation and sharing ideas with others.
Library officials say the program is designed to provide a relaxed, social environment for local crafters of all skill levels.
The event is open to the public.
Free Fun Paddle Planned Saturday At Lyerly Dam
A free community paddle event is planned for Saturday, May 9 at Lyerly Dam in Summerville.
The “Free Fun Paddle,” organized by the Chattooga River Group, will begin at 10 AM and take participants along the Blue Trail from the Lyerly Dam launch to Chattoogaville.
Participants will be joined by Shane Kornberg, a natural resources expert with UGA Extension, who will share information on river ecology, invasive versus native species, and the importance of maintaining a diverse ecosystem.
Those planning to attend are asked to bring their own kayak, paddle, life jacket, and snacks, and should be prepared to arrange transportation after the paddle. Organizers will also require a signed waiver before launch.
The event is open to the public
Cool Start To The Week Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are waking up to a noticeably cooler start to the week, with temperatures running 5 to 10 degrees below normal for early May.
Early Sunday morning brought lows in the low to mid 40s across the area, with some upper 30s possible in the higher elevations nearby. These cooler-than-average conditions will continue into Monday morning, making it the chilliest stretch of the week.
Afternoon highs today will stay mild, topping out in the upper 60s to around 70 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Dry air moving into the region will keep humidity levels low, creating comfortable conditions but also raising fire weather concerns. Light northwest winds combined with dry vegetation mean outdoor burning is discouraged across parts of Northwest Georgia.
By Monday, temperatures will begin to rebound, with highs returning to the upper 70s and near 80 degrees. Dry conditions will remain in place through at least Tuesday as high pressure dominates the region.
Attention then turns to midweek, when a developing storm system is expected to move toward the Southeast. Shower and thunderstorm chances will increase Wednesday into Thursday across Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County. While widespread severe weather is not certain at this time, some storms could bring gusty winds and brief heavy rainfall. The exact timing and coverage of these storms will become clearer over the next few days.
Behind that system, another round of seasonably cool air is expected to move in, bringing highs back into the 70s and lows in the 40s and 50s late in the week.
Arrest Report - Sunday - May 3, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, May 3, 2026:
Funeral Services To Be Held Today For Former Summerville Police Chief Stan Mosley
Funeral services will be held today for former Summerville Police Chief Stanley O’Shea Mosley.
Mosley, age 60, of Summerville, passed away following a period of declining health.
A homegoing service celebrating his life will be held today, Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 2 PM at Oak Hill Baptist Church in the Gore Community. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Public viewing was held Saturday at Wright Memorial Mortuary.
5th Annual Chattooga River Fest Set For June 13 In Trion
The 5th Annual Chattooga River Fest is set to return to Trion on Saturday, June 13, bringing a full day of outdoor fun, live music, and family-friendly activities to Northwest Georgia.
The event will begin at 10 AM at the Trion Recreation Department and is open to the public.
Organizers say this year’s festival will feature vendors, festival food, outdoor life demonstrations, and educational talks focused on the Chattooga River and surrounding environment. Attendees can also enjoy live local music throughout the day, with The Band Chickamauga scheduled to headline at 4 PM.
Family activities will include a free KidZone with access to the splash pad, as well as a cornhole tournament and other recreational events.
A kayak raffle sponsored by Atrium Health EMS is also planned, along with a free float on the Lower Chattooga River, with additional details expected to be announced soon.
Organizers say the event is pet-friendly but note that pets must be leashed, well-behaved, and meet specific guidelines for safety.
The Chattooga River Fest is organized by Cindy L. Rivers McGraw and the Chattooga River Group, with support from local sponsors including Atrium Health EMS and Pine Ridge Outdoor Supply.
More information, including vendor and participant registration, is available online.
Insurance Costs Rise For Teen Drivers In Georgia
Teen drivers in Georgia are facing some of the highest insurance costs of any age group, as insurers point to increased risk and inexperience behind the wheel.
According to industry data, adding a teen driver to a family policy can significantly increase premiums, sometimes doubling the cost depending on the vehicle, driving record, and coverage levels.
Insurance companies say the higher rates are largely due to statistics showing teens are more likely to be involved in accidents, especially during their first few years of driving. Factors such as distracted driving, nighttime driving, and limited experience all contribute to the increased risk.
In Georgia, teens can begin driving with a learner’s permit at age 15 and obtain a provisional license at 16 under the state’s graduated driver licensing law. Restrictions on nighttime driving and passenger limits are designed to reduce risk, but insurance rates remain high during these early years.
There are some ways families can lower costs. Many insurers offer discounts for good grades, driver’s education courses, and safe driving programs. Choosing a safe, lower-cost vehicle and maintaining a clean driving record can also help reduce premiums over time.
Experts recommend parents compare multiple insurance providers and review coverage options carefully to find the best balance between cost and protection.
While the higher costs can be challenging, insurance professionals say proper coverage is critical to protect young drivers and their families financially in the event of an accident.
Cherokee County Marks Historic Courthouse Transition With Ceremony
Cherokee County, Alabama marked a major milestone Friday with a ceremony honoring the transition from its longtime courthouse to a new, modern facility in Centre.
The event brought together community leaders, residents, and officials to reflect on the past while celebrating the future of the county’s judicial system.
For nearly 100 years, since 1937, the historic courthouse served as the center of government and community life in Cherokee County. Organizers emphasized that courthouses are more than buildings—they represent justice, civic pride, and the place where many of life’s most important moments occur.
Friday’s ceremony began at the old courthouse with a symbolic lowering of the American and Alabama flags by local honor guards. The flags were then presented to Judge Jack Livingston, a World War II Navy veteran and longtime public servant, who carried them to the new courthouse.
That walk turned into a community parade, featuring local students, civic groups, law enforcement, and first responders—highlighting the connection between generations and the future of the county.
At the new courthouse, the flags were raised again, symbolizing the continuation of service and commitment to the community. The ceremony also included the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem, and remarks from several state and local leaders.
A helicopter flyover from regional aviation units and participation from surrounding communities underscored the significance of the moment.
The event concluded with a ribbon cutting and public tours of the new facility, giving residents a firsthand look at the courthouse that will serve Cherokee County for generations to come.
Officials said while the building has changed, the mission remains the same: to serve the people, uphold the law, and carry forward a legacy rooted in nearly a century of history.
WEIS Radio contributed to this report
Kemp Says Georgia Will Wait On Redistricting Changes Until 2028
Governor Brian Kemp says Georgia will not rush into redrawing its political maps following a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision, signaling that any changes will likely come later.
In a new statement, Kemp said the ruling “requires Georgia to adopt new electoral maps before the 2028 election cycle,” but made it clear the state will not call a special session to redraw districts ahead of the 2026 elections.
The decision comes after the Supreme Court issued a ruling that weakens parts of the Voting Rights Act, potentially giving states more flexibility in how congressional districts are drawn.
While some Republican leaders in Georgia and other Southern states have pushed for immediate redistricting, Kemp’s position means current district maps are expected to remain in place through the next election cycle.
Political observers say the issue could still become a major focus ahead of 2028, as lawmakers evaluate how the court’s decision impacts representation and district boundaries across the state.
Georgia has already faced legal battles over its maps in recent years, including a federal court order in 2023 requiring lawmakers to redraw districts over concerns about minority voting strength.
Kemp’s announcement puts Georgia among states taking a more cautious approach, even as redistricting debates intensify across the South.
Sen. Lanny Thomas Appointed To Key Georgia Senate Committees
State Senator Lanny Thomas of Trion has been appointed to serve on several key Georgia Senate committees, giving Northwest Georgia a voice in major policy areas.
Thomas, a Republican representing Georgia’s 53rd Senate District, will serve on the Banking and Financial Institutions Committee, Higher Education Committee, Natural Resources and the Environment Committee, and Transportation Committee.
He will also serve as an ex-officio member of the Education and Youth Committee and the State and Local Governmental Operations Committee.
Thomas said he is honored to represent Northwest Georgia through the assignments and thanked Lt. Governor Burt Jones, Senate President Pro Tempore Larry Walker, and the Senate Committee on Assignments for their trust.
Thomas said the committees touch the everyday lives of hardworking people back home, adding that he looks forward to bringing Northwest Georgia’s voice into those discussions.
A retired educator with more than 35 years of experience, Thomas said education will remain a major focus of his work in the Senate. He also brings local government experience, having served six years as a town councilman and eight years as mayor.
Thomas said that background has shown him how decisions made at the state level impact local classrooms, families, and communities.
Senator Thomas represents Georgia’s 53rd Senate District, which includes Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker counties, along with a portion of Floyd County.
He can be reached at 404-657-7716 or by email at Lanny.Thomas@senate.ga.gov.
Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach Record Highs In March
Georgia’s workforce continues to show strong growth, with both labor force participation and employment reaching all-time highs in March, according to new data from the Georgia Department of Labor.
The state’s labor force rose to 5,455,254, while employment climbed to 5,262,263—both record-setting numbers. Georgia’s unemployment rate for March came in at 3.5 percent, remaining below the national average and slightly up from 3.4 percent one year ago. The rate is also down from 3.6 percent in February.
State Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes says the numbers reflect continued momentum across Georgia’s economy.
“Georgia’s economy is proving its strength with nearly 5.5 million in our labor force and 5.26 million employed,” Holmes said. “This is what resilient, sustainable growth looks like.”
Over the past year, Georgia’s labor force has increased by more than 45,000 people, while employment has grown by over 35,000. Meanwhile, the number of unemployed Georgians declined slightly in March compared to February.
Job growth also rebounded in March after two months of decline, with total jobs increasing by 4,700 over the month to nearly 5 million statewide.
The health care and social assistance sector led the way, reaching a record high of 641,700 jobs. That sector also saw the largest monthly and annual gains, adding 2,900 jobs in March and more than 24,000 over the past year.
Other industries seeing monthly growth included wholesale trade, information services, arts and entertainment, and other service-related jobs.
However, not all sectors saw gains. Job losses were reported in areas such as accommodation and food services, construction, real estate, and professional services. Over the past year, declines were also seen in federal government jobs, retail trade, transportation, and construction.
Unemployment claims rose slightly in March compared to February but remain lower than this time last year.
Officials say the overall data points to a stable and growing economy, even as some industries continue to adjust to shifting demand and workforce trends.
For those needing assistance, the Georgia Department of Labor offers resources online and through career centers statewide.
Georgia Timber Industry Faces Ongoing Challenges, Including Impacts In Chattooga County
Georgia’s timber industry, long considered one of the state’s economic backbones, is facing a growing list of challenges that are also being felt locally in Chattooga County and across Northwest Georgia.
Forestry remains one of Georgia’s top industries, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing billions to the state’s economy. In rural areas like Chattooga County, timber harvesting, logging, and related services play a key role in supporting landowners and small businesses.
However, industry leaders say a combination of economic pressure, environmental concerns, and workforce shortages is creating uncertainty.
One of the biggest challenges continues to be fluctuating timber prices. Demand for lumber surged during the pandemic housing boom, but prices have since stabilized, leaving some landowners seeing lower returns on harvested timber.
In Chattooga County, where many families rely on timber as a long-term investment, those shifts can directly impact household income and land management decisions.
Labor shortages are also affecting logging operations. Fewer workers are entering the field, making it harder for companies to maintain production levels. Rising equipment and fuel costs have added additional strain on smaller logging operations throughout Northwest Georgia.
Environmental factors are another concern. Severe weather, including storms and drought conditions, can damage timber stands and delay harvests. At the same time, increasing attention on sustainability and water quality—especially related to industrial activity in the region—has placed additional scrutiny on forestry practices.
Transportation and supply chain issues have also made it more difficult to move timber efficiently, particularly for mills and processors that rely on steady deliveries.
Despite these challenges, forestry experts say the long-term outlook remains stable, with continued demand for wood products and ongoing efforts to improve forest management practices.
Local leaders in Northwest Georgia continue to emphasize the importance of supporting the timber industry, noting its role in preserving working forests, protecting rural economies, and maintaining the region’s natural landscape.