Summerville Steam Special Chili And Brunswick Stew Cook-Off Set For Saturday
The annual Summerville Steam Special Chili and Brunswick Stew Cook-Off is coming to the historic Summerville Depot this Saturday, October 24, bringing a day of food, friendly competition, entertainment and railroad history.
The event, sponsored by Summerville Main Street, will take place from 10 AM until 3 PM, with free admission for the public.
Ten amateur cooking teams will compete for cash prizes, trophies and bragging rights, preparing their favorite chili and Brunswick stew recipes. Visitors will have an opportunity to sample the entries and vote for their favorites in the People’s Choice competition.
Tasting wristbands will be available for $5 beginning at 10 AM and continuing until 2 PM, or until sold out. Visitors can also vote for their favorite team theme and spirit, with additional votes in that category available for $1 each.
This year’s competing teams include Alley Cats BBQ, Chill-N-Grill, Up N Smoke’s Haunted House, Old Fashioned Western Chili & Stew, Gaylesville First Baptist Church’s Country Pumpkins, Thank A Farmer, Possum Drool Stew, Pot of Gold, Purple Haze and Quack Attack.
In addition to the cooking competition, the event will feature craft and dessert vendors, music and indoor dining in the Depot Freight Room. Competing teams will also have food available for purchase.
Another highlight will be the scheduled arrival of a Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum steam train at 1 PM. Visitors will have an opportunity to see the historic Joe Robert Norton Turntable, which is used to turn steam locomotives at the Summerville Depot.
Train excursion tickets are available separately through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum at www.tvrail.com.
The Summerville Steam Special Chili and Brunswick Stew Cook-Off takes place Saturday, October 24, from 10 AM until 3 PM at the Summerville Depot.
Man Dies Following Explosion And Structure Fire In Walker County
A 38-year-old man died Tuesday morning following an explosion and structure fire in Walker County.
Walker County Fire Rescue responded to 116 Alton Terrace Spur around 8:25 AM Tuesday after a neighbor reported a fire at the location.
When firefighters arrived, they found heavy flames coming from a small outbuilding near the road. After extinguishing the fire, crews discovered the body of a man inside the structure.
According to investigators, a neighbor reported seeing the man enter the building shortly before the explosion occurred.
Authorities are withholding the victim’s name pending positive identification and notification of his next of kin.
The incident marks Walker County’s first fire-related fatality of 2026.
The Walker County Fire Marshal’s Office continues to investigate what caused the explosion and resulting fire. Investigators have ruled out foul play.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - October 20, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, October 20, 2026:
Sunny Skies And Dry Fall Weather Continue Across Chattooga County Through The Weekend
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can look forward to an extended stretch of sunny skies, comfortable afternoon temperatures, and cool nights as dry fall weather continues through the upcoming weekend. Forecasters with the National Weather Service say there is little chance of rainfall over the next several days.
Today, sunshine will dominate the forecast, with afternoon temperatures reaching around 75 degrees. Winds will be light, becoming calm during the morning hours. Tonight will be clear and cool, with an overnight low near 47 degrees.
Wednesday will bring another beautiful fall day, with sunny skies and a high near 77. Wednesday night will remain clear, with temperatures dropping to around 49 degrees. Thursday will be sunny with a high near 76, although north winds could gust as high as 15 miles per hour. Friday will feature more sunshine and a high near 75.
A slightly cooler air mass is expected to move into the region over the weekend. Saturday will be sunny with a high near 71, followed by a clear and chilly Saturday night with temperatures falling to around 44 degrees. Sunday will bring more sunshine and a high near 72.
Looking ahead to Monday, mostly sunny skies are expected, with temperatures climbing back into the middle 70s.
While the pleasant weather will be ideal for outdoor activities, forecasters are warning that the prolonged dry conditions could increase the danger of wildfires. Afternoon humidity levels are expected to fall near critical thresholds, making dry vegetation more susceptible to catching fire. Residents should exercise caution with outdoor burning and check with local authorities about burn permits and restrictions.
The National Weather Service says no significant rainfall is expected through the forecast period, and overnight temperatures should remain warm enough to prevent widespread frost.
Trion Lady Bulldogs Advance To Elite Eight In State Softball Playoffs
The Trion High School Lady Bulldogs softball team is headed to Columbus after securing a spot in the Elite Eight of the Georgia High School Association Class A state playoffs.
The Lady Bulldogs punched their ticket to the next round Monday evening with a pair of victories over Taylor County, winning the opening game 3-0 before taking the second game 5-4.
The two victories completed a sweep of the second-round playoff series and earned Trion a place among the final eight teams competing for the Class A state championship.
Trion entered the second round after sweeping Atkinson County in the opening round of the playoffs on October 12. The Lady Bulldogs defeated Atkinson County 11-1 and 17-5 to advance.
The team will now travel to Columbus for the Elite Eight tournament, scheduled for October 28-31, where the remaining teams will compete for a state championship.
The Trion High School Softball program celebrated the accomplishment Monday night, announcing that the Lady Dawgs were officially Columbus bound.
Chattooga Chamber Offering Business Planning Workshop October 28
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce is offering an opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs and existing business owners to develop their ideas and strengthen their business plans through the Chattooga Venture Lab program.
A Business Planning Workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, from 1:30 until 4:30 PM at 10050 Commerce Street in downtown Summerville.
The workshop is part of Chattooga Venture Lab, an entrepreneurial development program designed to help participants turn business ideas into successful enterprises.
The program features six modular workshops focusing on different aspects of starting, operating and growing a business.
The October 28 session will focus on business planning, an important step for entrepreneurs preparing to launch a new venture or business owners looking to expand their operations.
The Chamber’s initiative is designed to encourage entrepreneurship, support small businesses and promote economic development throughout Chattooga County.
Those interested in participating can find registration information through the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce or the Chattooga Venture Lab Business Planning Workshop event page on Facebook.
Chattooga County Property Tax Bills Available Online And Arriving In Mailboxes
Chattooga County residents can now view and pay their 2026 property tax bills online, and printed bills are being delivered to taxpayers through the mail.
Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton says the bills have been finalized, with the current payment deadline set for December 11, 2026.
Property owners can access their bills and make payments at chattoogacountytax.com.
Hampton has also provided several important reminders about this year’s property tax bills, including how tax relief measures, exemptions and pending property tax appeals are being handled.
FLOST/PTRLOST Savings
Hampton says FLOST/PTRLOST savings are reflected on mailed bills for properties that are not exempt from county taxes.
The savings field was not initially appearing on the online bills, and the Tax Commissioner’s Office has been working to correct that issue.
Sales tax rollbacks for schools and insurance rollbacks for county taxes are reflected on both online and mailed bills.
Online Payments And Mailed Bills
Residents who have already paid their property taxes online may still receive a printed bill because the mailing files were prepared before those payments were made.
Hampton also says the date when interest begins accruing could be adjusted depending on when taxpayers receive their mailed bills. Any changes will be announced by her office.
Property Tax Appeals
Property owners with pending tax appeals will receive their bills separately, along with additional information explaining how those accounts are being handled.
Those taxpayers can still view and pay their bills online. However, Hampton reminds residents that property taxes on accounts under appeal are calculated using 85 percent of the property’s value while the appeal remains pending.
Understanding Freeze Exemptions
Hampton also clarified that property tax freeze exemptions do not freeze the actual dollar amount of taxes owed.
Instead, the exemptions freeze the taxable value used to calculate property taxes. That adjustment appears in the exemption amount listed on the bill.
Hampton thanked taxpayers for their patience as her office worked through the process of finalizing this year’s property tax bills.
Chattooga County residents can review their tax bills, check their account information and make payments at chattoogacountytax.com.
The current payment deadline remains December 11, 2026.
Georgia DNR Accepting Applications For 2027 Career Academy For High School Students
Georgia high school juniors and seniors interested in careers involving wildlife, conservation and the outdoors have an opportunity to explore those fields through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ 2027 Career Academy.
The Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division has announced that applications are now being accepted for the weeklong program, scheduled for July 18–24, 2027.
The academy will give students hands-on experience while introducing them to career opportunities within the Department of Natural Resources.
Participants will visit locations across Georgia, including state parks, wildlife management areas, fish hatcheries and coastal destinations. Students will learn about careers in conservation law enforcement, wildlife and fisheries management, state park operations and other natural resource fields.
The program also provides opportunities to meet DNR employees, hear about their career experiences and learn about the education and training needed to pursue similar careers.
Activities will take place at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center and the Jekyll 4-H Center, along with other locations around the state.
The academy is designed to help students discover career opportunities they may not have previously considered while gaining a better understanding of Georgia’s natural resources and the work involved in protecting them.
The application deadline is November 16, 2026.
Students in Chattooga County and throughout northwest Georgia who are interested in participating can find application information through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College Warns Students About Scam Emails
Georgia Northwestern Technical College is warning students about a potentially fraudulent email circulating that appears to come from an address associated with the Blackboard online learning platform.
According to GNTC, the suspicious email is being sent from do-not-reply@blackboard.com and contains a link with the wording “Approve Your Refund TDF… Initial Post.txt.”
College officials are urging students not to click the link or open the attachment if they receive the message.
GNTC says its Technology Services team has already sent a cybersecurity notice to students providing additional information about the potential scam.
The college is also reminding students to be cautious when receiving unexpected emails, particularly those requesting personal information or directing recipients to unfamiliar websites.
Students are encouraged to verify the sender of any suspicious message before clicking links or providing sensitive information.
Anyone who receives a questionable email or needs assistance is encouraged to contact GNTC directly.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College serves students throughout northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County, with campuses in Rome, Rock Spring, Calhoun, Dalton, Blue Ridge and other locations.
The warning serves as a reminder that cybercriminals sometimes use familiar educational platforms and official-looking email addresses to trick recipients into opening malicious links or providing personal information.
Sloppy Floyd State Park Announces More Halloween And Fall Activities For Remainder Of October
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park near Summerville has several more Halloween-themed and fall activities scheduled for the remainder of October, including nighttime hikes, Halloween hayrides, pumpkin painting and a sunset paddle.
The upcoming activities begin Saturday, October 24, and continue through Halloween, offering families and outdoor enthusiasts opportunities to enjoy the park while learning about local wildlife.
Hike On The Dark Side — Saturday, October 24
The event begins at 7 PM with a guided nighttime hike to the Marble Mine. Park rangers will introduce participants to unusual and mysterious wildlife found in the area. Admission is $3 per person, plus a required $10 park parking pass. Participants should bring a flashlight, water and comfortable walking shoes. The group will meet at the Marble Mine trailhead near Picnic Shelter 2. Registration is preferred.
Halloween Hayride — October 24, 25 And 31
The Friends of Sloppy Floyd will host Halloween hayrides on Saturday, October 24, Sunday, October 25, and Saturday, October 31, from 1 until 4 PM each day.
Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 5 through 12, and free for children 4 and younger. The event includes free candy, temporary tattoos and popcorn.
A $10 park pass is required. Parking will be at the park entrance, with a free shuttle taking visitors to the hayride starting point. The hayride will be canceled in the event of rain.
Spooky Moon Pie Hike — Monday, October 26
A special evening hike around the lower lake begins at 7 PM. Participants are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and will enjoy Moon Pies and hot cocoa while watching the moonrise from the lower dam.
Admission is $3 per person, plus the $10 park pass. Participants should bring a flashlight, a blanket and comfortable shoes. Registration is required.
Creatures Of The Night — Tuesday, October 27
Park rangers will lead a nighttime hike beginning at 7 PM, exploring the habits of nocturnal wildlife, including owls and raccoons.
Participants will learn how animals adapt to life after dark. Costumes are encouraged, and flashlights will be provided. Admission is $2 per person, plus the required park pass. Registration is required.
Lightning Bug Lanterns — Wednesday, October 28
Families can learn about the life cycles of lightning bugs and where they go during the winter months during a special program beginning at 6:30 PM at Picnic Shelter 4.
Participants will also create lanterns using glow-in-the-dark paint to imitate the soft glow of fireflies.
Admission is $5 per person, plus the $10 park pass. Registration is required.
Into The Dark: Bat Hike — Thursday, October 29
A guided nighttime hike to the Marble Mine begins at 7 PM, focusing on bats and their role in the local environment.
Park rangers will explain what bats eat and how they adapt to nighttime activity. Costumes are encouraged, and participants should bring water and wear comfortable shoes.
Admission is $2 per person, plus the park pass. Participants should meet in front of the park office by 7 PM.
Pumpkin Painting — Friday, October 30
A family-friendly pumpkin painting event begins at 6 PM.
Participants can decorate their own pumpkins, with pumpkins, paint and brushes provided by the park.
Admission is $5 per person.
Spooky Sunset Paddle — Saturday, October 31
Halloween evening will feature a guided sunset paddle around the park’s lower lake, beginning at 6 PM.
Participants are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes, and a prize will be awarded for the best costume.
Admission is $20 per person with kayak rental included or $10 for participants bringing their own kayak. A $10 park pass is also required.
Registration is required, and participants should meet at the park office by 6 PM.
Registration And Information
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park is located near Summerville in Chattooga County.
For registration, additional information or questions about the scheduled activities, residents can contact the park office at 706-857-0826.
State Senator And School Superintendent To Speak At Chattooga County Republican Meeting Today
The Chattooga County Republican Party will hold its October meeting tonight, Tuesday, October 20, featuring State Senator Lanny Thomas and Chattooga County School Superintendent Dr. Michelle Helie as guest speakers.
The meeting will begin at 6 PM at Chattooga County Republican headquarters, located at 11264 Highway 27 in Summerville.
Thomas represents Georgia’s 53rd Senate District, which includes Chattooga County and other portions of northwest Georgia. He will be joined by Dr. Helie, who serves as superintendent of the Chattooga County School District.
The meeting comes just two weeks before Georgia’s November 3 General Election, with early voting already underway across the state.
The October gathering provides local Republicans and other interested residents an opportunity to hear directly from their state senator and the superintendent of the county school system.
The meeting begins at 6 PM tonight at Republican headquarters on Highway 27 in Summerville.
Father's Heart Cafe Seeking Donations To Provide Warm Meals During Colder Months
As colder weather approaches, Father’s Heart Cafe is asking the community for help stocking its kitchen so it can continue providing warm meals to people in need throughout the winter.
The organization says it is preparing to serve additional hot meals as temperatures drop and is seeking donations of food, serving supplies and other essentials to support its outreach efforts.
Among the food items needed are ground beef, boneless skinless chicken breasts, hotdogs, cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups, chicken broth, butter, sour cream, canned vegetables, Ritz crackers and individual packages of saltine crackers.
The organization is also requesting individual snacks, disposable soup bowls with lids, full-size aluminum pans and foil sheets, three-compartment hinged takeout containers, sandwich trays, plastic forks and spoons, gloves, handwarmers and travel-size tissues.
In addition to its regular meal service, Father’s Heart Cafe is preparing for its annual community meals in November and December. The organization says it plans to continue its tradition of serving families in the park during the holiday season, an outreach effort it has carried out for the past several years.
Organizers say the goal is not only to provide food but also to make sure people facing difficult circumstances know they are cared for and remembered, particularly during the holidays.
Father’s Heart Cafe welcomes donations from individuals, families, churches, businesses and other organizations interested in helping provide meals or supporting the upcoming holiday gatherings.
Anyone with questions, wishing to donate or interested in partnering with the organization can contact Father’s Heart Cafe through its Facebook page.
Organizers say every donation helps provide another warm meal and reminds someone in need that they are not alone.
Georgia Gas Prices Drop Eight Cents As Oil Market Uncertainty Continues
Georgia motorists are seeing some relief at the gas pump, with the statewide average price for regular unleaded gasoline falling eight cents over the past week. However, AAA warns that rising crude oil prices could slow further declines.
According to AAA – The Auto Club Group, Georgia’s average gas price stood at $3.73 per gallon on Monday, down from $3.81 a week earlier. Prices are also 36 cents lower than a month ago but remain 91 cents higher than this time last year.
In Chattooga County, the average price Monday was $3.68 per gallon, five cents below the state average.
Neighboring counties reported similar prices, although motorists crossing into northeast Alabama are paying considerably more.
Local Gas Price Averages As Of Monday, October 19:
- Chattooga County: $3.68
- Walker County: $3.68
- Floyd County: $3.71
- Gordon County: $3.68
- DeKalb County, Alabama: $3.84
- Cherokee County, Alabama: $3.78
Among Georgia’s metropolitan areas, the Catoosa-Dade-Walker region had one of the state’s lowest averages at $3.61 per gallon. Savannah reported one of the highest averages at $3.83.
Nationally, the average price for regular gasoline dropped six cents over the past week to $4.29 per gallon.
Despite the recent decreases, AAA says crude oil prices climbed sharply Friday amid concerns about possible disruptions to global supplies. Continued volatility in oil markets could limit additional price reductions in the coming weeks.
“Crude oil prices and potential supply disruptions remain factors to watch for drivers,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “While market conditions remain uncertain, drivers can help manage fuel costs by shopping around for the best prices, taking advantage of fuel rewards programs, and planning trips efficiently.”
At Georgia’s current statewide average, filling a standard 15-gallon gas tank costs approximately $55.95.
AAA recommends comparing prices at different stations, taking advantage of fuel rewards programs, combining errands to reduce unnecessary driving and maintaining vehicles for better fuel efficiency.
The organization also reminds motorists that aggressive acceleration and speeding can significantly increase fuel consumption.
Gasoline prices are subject to daily changes based on market conditions.
Chattooga County Animal Shelter Features 25 Dogs Available For Adoption
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is encouraging residents who are considering adding a four-legged companion to their family to visit the shelter and meet the dogs currently available for adoption.
The shelter has shared a flyer featuring 25 dogs, each pictured with its name, in hopes of helping them find loving homes.
Among the dogs featured are Rowdy, Diesel, Wolf, Ms. Betty, Rosie, Pup, Roxie, Zimba, Dottie, Beauty, Baby Girl, Trixie, Mona, Jazz, Jet, Jetta, Joker, Spark, Linc, Ollie, Hank, Clover and Katie Daisy Mae. The flyer also features two dogs named Jack.
The dogs pictured include a variety of sizes, colors and breeds, giving prospective adopters several potential companions to meet.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville.
The shelter is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 AM until 4 PM. Wednesday visits are available by appointment.
Residents interested in adopting are encouraged to visit the shelter, meet the animals and learn more about adoption requirements.
The shelter’s flyer provides a look at the dogs in its care, but prospective adopters should check directly with the shelter to confirm which animals are still available.
Walker County Commissioners To Discuss Forensic Audit At Special Meeting Today
The Walker County Board of Commissioners will hold a special called meeting today, Tuesday, October 20, to hear a presentation concerning a forensic audit of county government finances.
The meeting begins at 6 PM at the Walker County Civic Center, located at 10052 Highway 27 in Rock Spring, and is open to the public.
The meeting comes as Walker County has faced questions about financial oversight and accounting procedures.
The county’s annual financial audit for fiscal year 2025 identified weaknesses in internal financial controls, including inadequate separation of duties involving the handling, recording and reconciliation of county funds.
Auditors warned that those weaknesses could increase the risk of financial losses or fraud. The report also identified problems with deposits not being made promptly in the Clerk of Court’s office.
County management acknowledged the findings and indicated that steps would be taken to strengthen financial controls.
Unlike a routine annual financial audit, a forensic audit involves a more detailed examination of financial records and transactions, often to investigate irregularities, determine whether funds were improperly handled or identify weaknesses in financial oversight.
However, Walker County has not publicly established that the findings in its annual audit are the reason for the forensic audit being discussed today. The meeting agenda does not identify the audit’s scope, specific findings or who will make the presentation.
According to the county’s published agenda, commissioners will hear the forensic audit presentation, followed by an opportunity for open discussion.
The meeting will not be livestreamed, but county officials say a recording will be made available afterward for residents unable to attend.
Residents needing special assistance may contact the Walker County Commissioner’s Office at 706-638-1437.
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.