Arrest Report - Friday - June 5, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, June 5, 2026:
Sunny Weekend Ahead Before Summer Storm Chances Return Next Week
Residents across Chattooga County and the surrounding counties of Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama can look forward to another stretch of pleasant early June weather through the weekend.
High pressure remains firmly in control across the Southeast, bringing dry conditions, abundant sunshine, and seasonable temperatures through Saturday. Afternoon highs today will climb into the mid-80s across much of the region, with temperatures edging a few degrees warmer on Saturday. Some locations could approach 90 degrees during the afternoon hours, especially in lower elevations.
Other than a few passing high clouds, skies should remain mostly sunny, making for excellent conditions for outdoor activities, sporting events, and weekend travel.
The weather pattern will begin to shift late in the weekend as moisture gradually returns to the area. By Monday and continuing through much of next week, Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama will see increasing chances for the typical summertime afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms.
Forecasters expect a more humid air mass to develop across the region, bringing a return to scattered, mainly heat-of-the-day thunderstorms. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated at this time, residents should be prepared for brief downpours, lightning, and localized gusty winds with stronger storms.
Temperatures next week will remain near normal for early June, with daytime highs generally in the 80s and overnight lows in the 60s to near 70 degrees.
For now, the forecast offers a beautiful start to the weekend before a more typical summer pattern settles back into the region next week.
New River Information Kiosks Installed in Trion, Lyerly and Chattoogaville
River enthusiasts now have access to new information kiosks designed to improve safety, navigation, and awareness along the Chattooga River.
The Chattooga River Group announced this week that new informational displays have been installed at existing kiosks in Trion, Lyerly, and Chattoogaville through a partnership with the Town of Lyerly, the Town of Trion, and the Trion Recreation Department.
According to the organization, the kiosks provide valuable information for paddlers and other river users, including maps of nearby river routes, safety information, river-use etiquette, and links to online resources.
The project is intended to help local municipalities maintain updated information for residents and visitors who use the river for recreation.
Chattooga River Group officials said the kiosks are designed to enhance the experience of river users while also helping connect them with additional outdoor recreation opportunities and watershed organizations throughout the region.
The information boards were installed this week and are now available for public use at the three locations.
The Chattooga River continues to be a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and other outdoor recreation activities throughout northwest Georgia.
Dog Shooting Incident Reported in Summerville
The Summerville Police Department is investigating an incident in which a dog was shot and later died from its injuries following a dispute between two Chattooga County residents.
According to police reports, officers were dispatched to 32 Suzie Lane on May 31 after receiving a complaint regarding a dog that had been shot.
The dog’s owner, Shane Ray Sword, 36, of Summerville, told officers that his black Labrador mix had gone down the street near a local church before returning with a gunshot wound to its right front shoulder. The dog later died. Sword told police the dog was not aggressive toward people or other animals and alleged that Jacob Caldwell, 31, of Summerville, had shot the animal.
Police later spoke with Caldwell, who acknowledged shooting the dog. According to the report, Caldwell stated the dog had entered his property and was growling at him and his dogs. He told officers he fired a shot into the dog’s shoulder in an effort to stop the animal and protect his pets.
Caldwell further told police there had been a prior incident involving the same dog. According to statements included in the report, he claimed the dog had previously come onto his property and killed one of his puppies during the winter months.
In a supplemental report filed June 1, Caldwell provided officers with video footage that reportedly showed the dog on his property near his driveway shortly before the shooting. Police also reviewed Chattooga County E-911 records and found documentation of a December 25, 2025 call involving allegations that a dog belonging to Sword had killed one of Caldwell’s dogs.
The video footage and CAD records were added to the case file, according to police.
The incident has been documented by the Summerville Police Department as an information-only report. No criminal charges were listed in the reports released by authorities, and officers advised those involved that any further action regarding the dispute would need to be pursued through magistrate court.
All individuals involved are presumed innocent unless and until proven otherwise in a court of law.
Community Yard Sale & BBQ Fundraiser Set for June 12-13 in Summerville
Local residents will have an opportunity to enjoy great food, shop for bargains, and support a worthy cause during a Community Yard Sale and BBQ Fundraiser benefiting foster children and families in Chattooga County.
Up N Smoke BBQ is partnering with Flourish Foster Care Closet & Support, Inc. for a two-day fundraising event at 141 W. Washington Street in Summerville. Organizers say all proceeds will go directly toward supporting local foster children and families.
The event will take place:
- Friday, June 12: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Saturday, June 13: 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Visitors can browse a large community yard sale while enjoying barbecue prepared by Up N Smoke BBQ.
BBQ plates will be available for $15 each, with two options:
- BBQ, baked beans, slaw, and a roll
- Loaded BBQ smoked potato
BBQ sandwiches, chips, and cold drinks will also be available for purchase.
Advance tickets are available by calling 706-676-8443, allowing customers to reserve their preferred menu choice.
According to organizers, every dollar raised helps provide clothing, essentials, and support services for foster children and families in the community.
The public is encouraged to come out, enjoy a meal, shop the sale, and support the mission of helping local children and families flourish.
Mentone Woman Loses $25,000 in Bitcoin Scam After Receiving Fraudulent Phone Calls
The Summerville Police Department is investigating a fraud case after a woman reported losing $25,000 in a scheme involving callers who falsely claimed her bank account had been compromised.
According to a police report, the victim, Karen Patrice Martin, 65, of Mentone, Alabama, told officers she was contacted on her cellphone by a foreign-speaking man who claimed her Truist Bank account had been linked to child pornography activity.
The caller allegedly told Martin that immediate action was needed to resolve the issue and informed her that he already possessed her account information.
According to the report, the caller instructed Martin to travel to a local business in Summerville and use a Bitcoin kiosk to transfer money. Police said Martin went to Amoco at 10380 Commerce Street and completed a Bitcoin transaction totaling $25,000 on June 1.
The victim later provided officers with receipts documenting both the Bitcoin purchase and the withdrawal of funds from her Truist Bank account used to complete the transaction.
Police reports indicate Martin also received phone calls from individuals claiming to represent the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). One caller reportedly provided a case number, while another supplied what was described as an authorization number as part of the scheme.
The incident has been classified as identity fraud by impersonation, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Law enforcement officials continue to warn the public that legitimate government agencies and financial institutions do not demand payment through Bitcoin, gift cards, wire transfers, or other unconventional payment methods. Residents are encouraged to verify any suspicious calls independently before providing personal information or sending money.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted by a similar scam should contact local law enforcement immediately.
GNTC, Floyd County Prison Partnership Opens Career Pathways for Offenders
A partnership between Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) and Floyd County Prison is helping incarcerated individuals prepare for successful reentry into society through education and workforce training.
During a graduation ceremony held May 29, GNTC and Floyd County Prison recognized 14 offenders who earned their High School Equivalency (HSE) diplomas, five who completed training in Shielded Metal Arc and Flux Core Welding, and five who obtained their Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Guest speaker Steven Roebuck encouraged graduates to take advantage of the opportunities their accomplishments have created.
“You now hold keys to opportunities that you didn’t have before—keys to better jobs, keys to better living, keys to a better future,” Roebuck said. “The possibilities are now endless.”
Roebuck, who previously served nearly seven years at Floyd County Prison over two separate incarcerations, now serves as the prison’s chaplain and works as the Water and Sewer Maintenance Supervisor for the City of Cave Spring. He told graduates that personal success comes through hard work and making positive choices.
“Our past can only hold us back if we allow it,” Roebuck said.
The programs are part of an ongoing collaboration between GNTC and Floyd County Prison designed to equip offenders with practical skills before their release. Previous offerings have included CDL training, welding instruction, High School Equivalency preparation, and basic business and computer skills courses.
The initiative aligns with efforts by Gov. Brian Kemp to improve offender reentry outcomes by expanding access to education, job training, identification documents, and records of completed programs.
Correctional Officer Judith Gilmer, who delivered the ceremony’s welcome and closing remarks, urged graduates to continue learning beyond the classroom.
“Learning is a never-ending sequence of events and does not stop because you graduated today,” Gilmer said. “Whatever you want out of life, you now know that you can achieve it through the same hard work that you used to earn your certificates.”
Gilmer also challenged graduates to share their knowledge and encourage others facing similar obstacles.
Funding for the welding and Class B CDL training programs was provided through a grant from Truist Bank.
Summerville Man Charged With DUI Following Traffic Stop
A Summerville man faces multiple charges following a traffic stop conducted by the Summerville Police Department.
According to citations provided to WZQZ, Antonio Francisco Tomas, 37, of Summerville, was charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and Failure to Maintain Lane.
The citations indicate the incident occurred on Sixth Avenue within the city limits of Summerville. The reporting officer noted that Tomas was operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and was considered less safe to drive. The citation states that a breath test showed a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit.
A separate citation alleges that Tomas failed to maintain a single lane of travel and was involved in a vehicle accident while impaired.
The case is scheduled to be heard in Summerville Municipal Court at a later date.
Recent Rains Bring Much-Needed Drought Relief to Northwest Georgia
Weeks of steady rainfall have brought encouraging news for Northwest Georgia, helping ease drought conditions that have plagued the region for months.
According to the latest information from the U.S. Drought Monitor and Georgia climate officials, recent storms have improved drought conditions across much of North Georgia. Statewide, the percentage of Georgia experiencing extreme or exceptional drought dropped significantly in late May as rainfall replenished soil moisture, streams, ponds, and pastures.
Northwest Georgia has been among the areas seeing some of the most noticeable improvement. Reports indicate that much of North Georgia received at least six inches of rain during May, helping reduce rainfall deficits that had built up since late 2025. In many parts of Northwest Georgia, precipitation shortages have been cut to less than five inches, a substantial improvement from earlier this spring.
The improvement comes after an exceptionally dry start to the year that prompted the Georgia Environmental Protection Division to issue a statewide Level 1 drought declaration in April. The drought contributed to low stream levels, stressed pastures, agricultural concerns, and elevated wildfire danger across the state.
While conditions are improving, experts caution that the drought has not been eliminated. The entire state remains under some level of drought or abnormally dry classification, and Georgia’s Environmental Protection Division continues to maintain its Level 1 drought response declaration.
Meteorologists say additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms in recent weeks have helped replenish water supplies and improve soil moisture levels. More rainfall opportunities are expected during the coming weeks, which could continue the recovery process if the pattern remains active.
For farmers, outdoor enthusiasts, and residents who watched creeks, ponds, and fields struggle through the spring drought, the recent rains have been a welcome sight. However, officials note that sustained rainfall over a longer period will be needed before drought conditions completely disappear from Northwest Georgia and the rest of the state.
Early Voting Begins June 8 for June 16 Primary Runoff in Chattooga County
Early voting for the June 16, 2026 Primary Runoff Election will begin Monday, June 8, and continue through Friday, June 12, according to the Chattooga County Registrar’s Office.
Advance voting will be held from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day at the Registrar’s Office located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville. Voters are reminded that a government-issued photo ID is required to cast a ballot.
As of 8:30 a.m. on June 4, election officials reported that 48 absentee-by-mail ballots had been issued, with no completed absentee ballots returned at that time.
The deadline to request an absentee-by-mail ballot for the June 16 Primary Runoff is Friday, June 5.
Voters will have either a Republican or Democratic ballot available, depending on which ballot they cast during the May 19 General Primary. Voters who cast a Republican ballot in the primary must vote a Republican ballot in the runoff, while those who cast a Democratic ballot must vote a Democratic ballot in the runoff.
Individuals who voted a nonpartisan ballot in the May 19 election, or who did not vote but were registered by April 20, may choose either a Republican or Democratic runoff ballot.
Election officials also noted that voters who registered in Chattooga County between April 21 and May 18 will receive a Federal Only ballot, which contains only federal races and does not include state contests.
Residents with questions about voting or registration should contact the Chattooga County Registrar’s Office.
National Fishing and Boating Week Returns June 6-14 Across Georgia
Georgians will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors as National Fishing and Boating Week returns June 6-14, 2026, with special events, educational programs, and two free fishing days offered statewide.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) is encouraging residents of all ages and experience levels to get on the water, introduce someone new to fishing, and enjoy the state’s abundant fishing and boating opportunities.
“There is no better time to enjoy Georgia’s incredible fishing and boating opportunities than during National Fishing and Boating Week,” said Scott Robinson, Chief of the WRD Fisheries Management Section. “Whether you are introducing a child to their first fishing trip, spending time with friends and family, or simply enjoying a quiet morning on the water, fishing and boating create lasting memories while supporting conservation through outdoor recreation.”
One of the highlights of the week will be Georgia’s two Free Fishing Days on Saturday, June 6, and Saturday, June 13. On those days, Georgia residents may fish public waters without purchasing a fishing license, trout license, or Lands Pass.
The annual observance, established in 1979, celebrates America’s fishing and boating traditions while encouraging more people to discover the recreational and conservation benefits of spending time outdoors.
In addition to free fishing opportunities, family fishing events and educational programs will be held across Georgia throughout the week. Residents can also take advantage of online learning opportunities through the Angler Academy program, which offers games, crafts, puzzles, and fishing-related activities designed for children.
Georgia offers a wide variety of fishing destinations, including mountain trout streams, neighborhood ponds, major reservoirs, rivers, and coastal waters. Anglers looking for a new location can explore one of the state’s 11 Public Fishing Areas or visit a Georgia State Park that offers fishing access.
More information about National Fishing and Boating Week, fishing events, and outdoor recreation opportunities can be found through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Walker County Man Convicted in Child Sexual Abuse Case
A Walker County man has been convicted on multiple charges involving the sexual abuse of child family members.
On May 19, a Walker County jury found James Franklin Frazier guilty of four counts of Aggravated Child Molestation, Aggravated Sodomy, and eighteen counts of Child Molestation following a two-day trial before Chief Judge Brian House.
According to the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, evidence presented at trial showed that Frazier used his position as a trusted family member to abuse three young girls over an extended period of their childhoods. Prosecutors said the victims were relatives who regularly spent time in Frazier’s home because of their close relationship with his then-wife.
During the trial, jurors heard testimony describing a pattern of manipulation and grooming. The victims testified that the abuse occurred over a period of years during overnight visits, movie nights, camping trips, and other situations where Frazier had isolated access to the children.
Authorities said the abuse was not reported to law enforcement until one victim reported it to a school official. Following that disclosure, the Walker County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation.
During the investigation, two additional victims disclosed abuse during forensic interviews conducted at the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit Children’s Advocacy Center.
Prosecutors also presented testimony from another young witness who described similar grooming behavior by Frazier, including gifts, special attention, and invitations to participate in activities such as camping and movie nights.
On May 27, Frazier was sentenced to life in prison, with the first 70 years to be served in the Georgia Department of Corrections.
The case was prosecuted by Chief Assistant District Attorney Lynsay Chapman, with assistance from victim advocates Amy Reed and Brittany Bruce, administrative staff member Crystal McNabb, and investigator Daniel Thacker.
Acting District Attorney Deanna Reisman praised the prosecution team following the conviction.
“This conviction is the result of dedication and perseverance by Chief ADA Chapman and her trial team,” Reisman said. “Her efforts ensured that the voices of multiple victims were heard and that the offender was held accountable. Our community is safer today because of her service.”
Arrest Report - Thursday - June 4, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, June 4, 2026:
Comfortable Weather Continues Before Rain Chances Return
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can look forward to several more days of dry and comfortable weather before the return of typical summertime showers and thunderstorms later this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, high pressure remains firmly in control across Georgia, keeping skies mostly clear and preventing Gulf moisture from moving into the region. As a result, rain chances will remain near zero through Saturday while humidity levels stay lower than what is typically expected for early June.
Temperatures today are expected to reach the low to mid-80s under sunny skies, with overnight lows dropping into the upper 50s. The pleasant weather pattern will continue into Friday, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities, yard work, and community events across Northwest Georgia.
Forecasters say the comfortable conditions won’t last forever. By late Saturday and especially Sunday, moisture will begin increasing as winds shift more from the south and southwest. That change will bring back the possibility of scattered afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms.
Rain chances are expected to continue through the middle of next week. At this time, the forecast points toward the typical summer pattern of isolated to scattered storms developing during the hottest part of the day rather than widespread severe weather.
Temperatures through next week are expected to remain seasonable, with daytime highs generally in the 80s. Overnight lows will gradually become warmer as humidity increases, climbing into the upper 60s and near 70 degrees by early next week.
Weather officials encourage residents to enjoy the unusually comfortable stretch of early June weather while it lasts before more familiar summertime conditions return to the region.
Chattooga County Animal Control Seeking Donations Of Kitten Food
Chattooga County Animal Control is asking for the community’s help as the shelter experiences an influx of young kittens.
According to shelter officials, 14 kittens have been taken in during the past week alone, including nine that arrived without their mother and require additional care and feeding.
The shelter is currently in urgent need of wet kitten food donations, and officials say any brand will help. Donations can be dropped off during shelter operating hours or mailed directly to the facility.
Chattooga County Animal Control is located at 464 Red Oak Drive in Summerville.
Regular shelter hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Wednesday visits are available by appointment.
Officials say community support is critical in helping provide proper nutrition and care for the young animals until they are ready for adoption.
Anyone wishing to help can donate wet kitten food directly to the shelter.
Lyerly Fire Department Plans Fundraiser To Support Back-To-School Bash
The Lyerly Fire Department is asking for community support as it prepares for its annual Back-to-School Bash, which provides free school supplies and book bags to local students.
The department will host a fundraiser on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Lyerly Fire Department.
The event will feature a car wash with a suggested donation of $10 as well as barbecue sales to help raise money for the school supply giveaway. Organizers say the fundraiser plays an important role in helping ensure local children have the supplies they need for the upcoming school year.
Barbecue plates will be available for $8 and barbecue sandwiches will be sold for $5. In addition, the department is accepting pre-orders for a $40 barbecue kit that includes a smoked Boston butt, a bottle of barbecue sauce, and a 16-pack of buns.
The fire department is also collecting school supply donations. Items such as notebooks, crayons, pencils, backpacks, and other classroom necessities may be dropped off at Lyerly City Hall or the Lyerly Fire Department garage.
Anyone interested in placing a barbecue kit pre-order can contact Breanna at 706-584-0974.
Fire department officials say they appreciate the community’s support and hope the fundraiser will help make this year’s Back-to-School Bash a success for local students and families.
Georgia Expands Support For Farmers With New Resource Center As Trade Talks Continue
Georgia agriculture leaders are continuing efforts to strengthen the state’s farming industry through new business resources and expanded market opportunities.
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper recently announced the opening of the Albany Georgia Grown Resource Center, a partnership between the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission. The facility is designed to serve as a regional hub for farmers, food producers, agritourism operators, processors, and other agriculture-related businesses.
The Albany location is the second of nine planned Georgia Grown Resource Centers across the state. Officials say the centers will provide marketing assistance, educational programs, food safety training, business development resources, and support for expanding retail and wholesale opportunities.
Commissioner Harper said the goal is to bring resources directly to agricultural communities and help farm businesses grow, compete, and succeed in an increasingly challenging marketplace.
At the national level, U.S. officials are also pursuing expanded agricultural trade opportunities with China. According to agricultural industry reports, discussions are underway to increase Chinese purchases of American farm products ahead of a possible presidential trip next month. Potential agreements could include increased purchases of products such as pork, dairy products, and specialty crops.
The developments come as many farmers face economic challenges heading into the 2026 growing season. Lower commodity prices, higher input costs, and ongoing trade uncertainty have created tight profit margins for many agricultural producers across the country. Industry analysts say stronger export markets could provide additional support for farm income in the months ahead.
Agriculture remains Georgia’s leading industry, generating billions of dollars in economic activity annually and supporting thousands of jobs throughout the state, including many communities in Northwest Georgia.
Walker County Commissioners Schedule FY2027 Budget Work Sessions
The Walker County Board of Commissioners has scheduled a series of budget work sessions next week as county leaders begin reviewing and discussing the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget.
According to the published agenda, budget workshops will be held June 9, 10, and 11 at the Walker County Commissioners Office located at 101 South Duke Street in LaFayette.
The sessions will allow commissioners to hear presentations, review departmental requests, and discuss financial priorities before the proposed budget is formally presented later this month.
The first budget workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, beginning at 9 a.m. Presentations will continue through the morning before a lunch recess from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Afternoon presentations are scheduled from 1 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.
A second work session will be held Wednesday, June 10, from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.
The final budget workshop is scheduled for Thursday, June 11. Presentations will take place from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., followed by a lunch recess from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Additional presentations are planned from 1:30 p.m. until 2 p.m.
County officials have also announced a Special Called Meeting of the Walker County Board of Commissioners for Friday, June 26, at 8:30 a.m. at the Courthouse Annex IV, located at 101 South Duke Street in LaFayette. During that meeting, the county’s Chief Financial Officer is expected to formally present the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget to the Board of Commissioners.
The budget workshops are open to the public and provide residents an opportunity to observe discussions regarding county spending plans and priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.
Mosquito Population Expected To Surge Across Georgia This Summer
Georgians may want to keep the bug spray handy this summer as experts warn that mosquito populations are expected to be especially active across the state.
Mosquitoes thrive in Georgia’s warm, humid climate, and a combination of seasonal rainfall and rising temperatures is creating ideal breeding conditions. Experts say even small amounts of standing water can quickly become mosquito breeding sites, leading to increased populations throughout neighborhoods and rural areas alike.
One of the biggest concerns is the Asian tiger mosquito, an aggressive daytime-biting species commonly found across Georgia. The mosquito can breed in surprisingly small amounts of water, including flowerpots, birdbaths, clogged gutters, buckets, children’s toys, and other outdoor containers.
Health officials also remind residents that mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance. Georgia health agencies monitor mosquito-borne illnesses including West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and La Crosse encephalitis. West Nile virus remains the most commonly reported mosquito-borne disease in Georgia and the United States.
Experts recommend several simple steps to reduce mosquito activity around homes:
- Eliminate standing water from containers, gutters, and low-lying areas.
- Change water in birdbaths regularly.
- Wear light-colored clothing when outdoors.
- Use EPA-approved insect repellents.
- Repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of the home.
Mosquito season in Georgia typically peaks during the hottest months of summer and can continue well into the fall, especially following periods of frequent rainfall. Residents in Northwest Georgia are encouraged to take preventive measures now before mosquito populations reach their seasonal highs.
Armuchee Teacher Turns Survival Story Into Mission To Encourage Blood Donations
An Armuchee Elementary School teacher who survived a life-changing crash is now using her story to encourage others to donate blood.
Hannah Nabors lost her leg in February 2025 after being involved in a crash with a drunk driver. During her recovery, Nabors said support from her co-workers and students helped give her strength and motivation to return to the classroom before the end of the school year.
Nabors said her school family sent videos, cards, and messages while she was away, helping her stay connected during a difficult time. Even after she began driving again with a prosthetic leg, she said passing the crash site was emotionally overwhelming.
But Nabors chose to move forward by giving back. She began donating blood after realizing that blood donations from others helped save her life. Earlier this year, she hosted a blood drive with the Blood Assurance clinic in Rome to mark the anniversary of her crash.
Blood Assurance says donors like Nabors are especially important as blood shortages continue to impact patients across the country. Without compatible blood donations, some patients may become seriously ill or may not survive.
Blood Assurance has also partnered with Goodlabs to offer free blood testing to participating donors. The program allows donors to receive health information, including testing panels that could otherwise cost hundreds of dollars out of pocket. Donors can also track health trends over time through an online portal.
Nabors, who is active and recently ran the Boston Marathon, said donating blood is one way she can help someone else receive the same chance she was given.
She has also been involved in advocacy efforts, including helping get Senate Bill 503 passed, which expands healthcare coverage for prosthetics.
Nabors said returning to her classroom now carries a deeper meaning because she knows she is there because of faith and the willingness of others to donate blood.
Anyone interested in donating through Blood Assurance can visit the Blood Assurance website for more information.