Arrest Report - Thursday - May 21, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, May 21, 2026:
Summer Heat and Daily Storm Chances Return to Chattooga County for Memorial Day Weekend
Chattooga County and the rest of Northwest Georgia are heading into a hot, humid, and stormy stretch of weather that will continue through Memorial Day weekend and into early next week.
Forecasters say temperatures will climb into the 80s and lower 90s each afternoon, bringing the first true taste of summer to the region. Overnight lows will remain warm and muggy in the 60s and lower 70s thanks to abundant moisture and cloud cover lingering across the Southeast.
Along with the summer heat, residents can expect daily rounds of showers and thunderstorms beginning Thursday and continuing through the holiday weekend. The National Weather Service says several weather disturbances moving through the region will help trigger scattered to numerous afternoon and evening storms each day.
The greatest chance for widespread rainfall currently appears to be Friday night into Saturday morning, when a stronger weather system is expected to move across North Georgia. Some storms could produce heavy downpours, frequent lightning, gusty winds, and brief periods of intense rainfall.
Forecasters are also watching for the possibility of “training thunderstorms,” where repeated storms move across the same locations over a short period of time. That setup could create isolated flooding concerns, especially in low-lying areas, places with poor drainage, and urban locations.
While widespread severe weather is not expected at this time, meteorologists say an isolated strong storm cannot be ruled out during the afternoon and evening hours over the next several days.
The rainy pattern may help improve dry conditions that have persisted across parts of Northwest Georgia, but it could also create interruptions for outdoor Memorial Day weekend plans including graduations, cookouts, sporting events, camping trips, lake outings, and travel.
Residents are encouraged to remain weather aware through the weekend by monitoring forecasts and moving indoors whenever thunderstorms approach.
Both Chattooga and Trion Move Graduation Indoors
Both Chattooga High School and Trion High School have announced graduation ceremonies will be moved indoors because of the forecast for rain and thunderstorms Friday evening.
Chattooga High School officials say graduation has been moved to the school gymnasium to ensure the safety and comfort of attendees. Due to limited seating capacity, each graduate will receive seven tickets for admission. Tickets will be distributed Thursday morning following graduation practice. The ceremony will also be livestreamed on YouTube and Facebook for those unable to attend in person.
Meanwhile, Trion High School has also moved its Friday night graduation ceremony from the stadium to the THS Gymnasium. School officials say no tickets will be required for entry. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. ahead of the 8:00 p.m. ceremony.
Both school systems say the decisions were made after closely monitoring weather forecasts throughout the week.
Chattooga County Native Named Chief Of Staff For Congressman Clay Fuller
Chattooga County native Spencer Hogg has been named chief of staff for U.S. Congressman Clay Fuller.
Hogg officially joined Congressman Fuller’s team on April 14th. He brings experience in economic development, government relations, and constituent service to the role.
Most recently, Hogg served as President and CEO of the Rome Floyd County Development Authority. He previously worked with the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority, serving as President and CEO, Vice President of Economic Development and Government Relations, and Economic Development Project Manager.
Hogg also has prior experience on Capitol Hill, having worked in the U.S. House of Representatives in the offices of Congressmen Tom Graves and Jody Hice.
In a statement to WZQZ News, Hogg said, “It’s the honor of a lifetime to join Rep. Clay Fuller as his Chief of Staff. Northwest Georgia raised me, and I look forward to fighting every day for the place I am proud to call home. I appreciate the chance to work for a Congressman that is committed to rural values and defending our communities.”
Traffic Stop In Gore Leads To Drug Arrest
A traffic stop near Gore earlier this month resulted in a drug arrest, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say 41-year-old Gary Lee Parker was arrested on May 14th and charged with possession of Schedule I drugs following a stop on Highway 27 near the Gore Fire Hall Road area.
According to the incident report, a deputy observed a vehicle traveling erratically and initiated a traffic stop after the vehicle crossed the center line multiple times. During the stop, authorities reported that Parker appeared extremely nervous and showed signs of possible impairment.
A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered suspected THC wax, suspected marijuana, THC vape cartridges, and drug paraphernalia.
Parker was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident.
Summerville Man Arrested Following Shoplifting Incident
A Summerville man was arrested earlier this month following a reported shoplifting incident at a local convenience store, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say 36-year-old Cody Lee Vickers was charged with theft by shoplifting after allegedly taking several items from a store on Highway 27 without paying.
According to the incident report, a deputy responded after receiving a complaint about a male suspect matching Vickers’ description leaving the store with merchandise. Authorities say the suspect was later located walking nearby and was taken into custody without further incident.
The report states the stolen items included cigarettes, Mountain Dew, and several other products allegedly concealed inside a jacket pocket.
Vickers was transported to the Chattooga County Jail following the arrest.
AdventHealth Georgia Welcomes Therapy Dog In Training During National EMS Week
During National EMS Week, AdventHealth Georgia is welcoming a new source of comfort and encouragement for its Emergency Medical Services team.
Winston, a 12-week-old therapy dog in training, has officially joined the AdventHealth Georgia EMS family. Once fully trained, Winston will support patients, families, caregivers, and first responders across Northwest Georgia.
AdventHealth says Winston was generously donated and comes from a family already connected to the health care system. His father serves as the “Chief Bark Ambassador” at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel near Tampa, Florida, and several of Winston’s littermates are also joining hospitals in Texas and Florida as therapy and support dogs.
Winston’s placement with AdventHealth Georgia EMS was made possible through support from the AdventHealth Georgia Foundation. Foundation President Garrett Nudd said Winston will be a valuable member of the EMS team and will help connect with the community while supporting patients and staff.
Once his training is complete, Winston will take part in patient and staff visits, community and school events, outreach with public safety partners, peer support, and critical incident stress management debriefings.
Winston’s handler, EMS team member Jodi Johnston, said the program is an important step toward supporting mental health in public safety.
Winston has already received his AdventHealth team member badge, officially marking the start of his role with AdventHealth Georgia EMS.
Friends Of Sloppy Floyd Hosting Homemade Ice Cream Sale Sunday
The Friends of Sloppy Floyd are inviting the community out for a sweet treat this Sunday during their Homemade Ice Cream Sale at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park.
The event will take place Sunday, May 24th, from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. next to the park visitor center. Organizers say several traditional homemade ice cream flavors will return this year, along with a few surprise flavors for visitors to enjoy.
Ice cream will be available for three dollars per cup, and both cash and cards will be accepted.
The Friends group encourages families and friends to come out, enjoy the park, and cool off with homemade ice cream during the Memorial Day weekend.
A ten-dollar park pass or annual pass is required for parking.
Steam Engine 4501 Returning To Historic Summerville Depot This Saturday
Summerville is home to one of only a few operating train turntables in the southeastern United States, and is truly a step back in time for train and history buffs alike. The City of Summerville is proud to announce the return of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Steam Engines to the Historic Summerville Depot on Saturday, May 23. The Summerville Turntable will work again, turning the iconic 4501 steam engine for the first time in 2026. A May Market & Melodies event, celebrating with live music and vendors, will be a highlight for the welcome back return of the steam engine with passengers.
Train enthusiasts will especially enjoy the arrival the the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s Steam Engine 4501. As they celebrate 65 years since incorporation, the TVRM is honoring its roots by returning this iconic locomotive to a classic look of green and gold. This grand lady of steam will lead the way to Summerville wearing the classic Southern Railway passenger livery she entered into excursion service within 1966—exactly 60 years ago.
“In a year when we’re celebrating our 65th anniversary and the locomotive’s 115th birthday, it feels only right for her to come back in Southern Railway passenger livery for a limited celebratory season,” said TVRM spokesperson Penelope Soule Gault.
She’ll proudly wear this passenger scheme throughout the year as she steams her way to Summerville, Georgia on the Summerville Steam Special.
The May Market & Melodies event will be held at The Summerville Depot during the hours of 10:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m. It will feature a variety of food and craft vendors inside and outside of the depot. A few delights to temp your taste buds include fresh jams and jellies, fried pies, deep fried corndogs, pizza, fresh baked specialty breads, bar-b-que, homemade lemonade and more. Retail and hand-crafted items will also be highlighted within the market. Live bluegrass, country and gospel music will be performed inside the depot freight room throughout the day. Admission is free and suggested parking is in Downtown Summerville.
The City of Summerville and Summerville Main Street is also gearing up for more May and June events, which include a May 30 Community Connect Day and train arrival. The annual Cowboy Western Heritage Festival combined with the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Passenger is scheduled for June 6, followed by a June 19 Summerville Natural Gas Friday Night Concert featuring Strictly Skynyrd, on the East Washington Streetscape Entertainment District. The popular Dairy Day At The Depot/Homemade Ice Cream Contest is scheduled for June 20, with a steam engine arrival. Each weekend in June there is something to do in downtown Summerville.
Booking Train Excursions
Tickets for train excursions are purchased through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum at www.tvrail.com . These vintage train rides follow a historic route from Grand Junction Station in Chattanooga to the Historic Summerville Depot. Summerville welcomes the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and its passengers by opening the historic depot to the public and with activities, entertainment, and events planned for each train arrival. Each event hosted is unique to itself.
Georgia DOT Suspending Interstate Lane Closures For Memorial Day Weekend
The Georgia Department of Transportation says interstate lane closures will be suspended across the state for the Memorial Day holiday travel period.
The suspension begins Friday, May 22nd, at 12:00 p.m. and will continue through Tuesday, May 26th, at 5:00 a.m. Georgia DOT says the move is intended to reduce travel delays and improve safety during one of the busier travel weekends of the year.
Motorists should remember that while lane closures are suspended, construction crews may still be working near roadways. Some long-term closures may also remain in place for safety reasons, and emergency or crash-related lane closures can still happen at any time.
Drivers are urged to stay alert, slow down in work zones, and move over when possible when workers are present. Georgia DOT says heavier traffic is expected around metro Atlanta and popular tourist destinations across the state.
Travelers can find traffic forecasts and holiday travel tips at the Georgia DOT website.
AAA Predicts Record Memorial Day Travel For Georgia And Nationwide
AAA says a record number of travelers are expected to hit the roads, skies, and rails this Memorial Day weekend, including more than 1.3 million Georgians.
According to AAA, approximately 1.37 million Georgians are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the five-day holiday period. More than 1.22 million of those travelers are expected to drive, while nearly 121,000 will fly.
Nationally, AAA projects nearly 45 million Americans will travel over Memorial Day weekend, marking the highest Memorial Day travel volume ever recorded.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters says travel demand remains strong despite concerns over inflation and fuel prices. However, some travelers may shorten trips or stay closer to home due to higher costs.
Drivers are expected to face the heaviest traffic congestion Thursday and Friday afternoons, as well as Monday afternoon during the return trip home. Transportation data company INRIX says the best travel times will generally be during the morning hours before lunchtime.
AAA is also reminding drivers to check tires, batteries, and fluid levels before traveling and to slow down and move over for emergency responders and disabled vehicles.
Top domestic destinations this Memorial Day include Orlando, Seattle, New York City, Las Vegas, and Miami.
Town Of Trion Announces Memorial Day Closings And Garbage Schedule Change
The Town of Trion has announced several department closures for Memorial Day.
The Town of Trion Business Office, Gas Department, Maintenance Department, and Recreation Department will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026, in observance of Memorial Day.
Garbage normally picked up on Monday will instead be picked up on Tuesday, May 26. All other garbage pickup days will remain on a regular schedule.
For emergency calls involving the Gas Department or Police Department, residents should call 911, and dispatchers will contact the proper personnel.
Arrest Report - Wednesday - May 20, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, May 20, 2026:
Warm Temperatures Continue Across Northwest Georgia With Storm Chances Increasing Later This Week
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect another round of summer-like heat this week, with afternoon highs climbing into the upper 80s and low 90s through the weekend.
Forecasters say conditions will remain mostly dry through today, although isolated afternoon thunderstorms could develop mainly along and north of the Interstate 85 corridor. Northwest Georgia is expected to see a better chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms beginning Wednesday afternoon and continuing into the weekend.
Meteorologists say moisture will gradually increase across the region as winds shift from the southwest, bringing a return of more humid conditions. While any storms that develop Wednesday are expected to remain below severe limits, brief gusty winds and lightning will be possible.
Rain chances are expected to increase significantly Thursday through early next week as a weakening cold front approaches North Georgia. Forecast models show scattered to numerous afternoon and evening thunderstorms each day, especially across North and West Georgia, including Chattooga County.
Some areas of North Georgia could receive between two and three inches of rainfall over the next seven days. The additional rainfall would help ease ongoing drought conditions affecting portions of the region.
Temperatures are expected to remain above average despite the increased rain chances, with highs generally staying in the 80s and lower 90s through the Memorial Day weekend period.
Chattooga Library Preparing For “Unearth A Story” Summer Reading Program
The Sara Hightower Regional Library System is gearing up for its 2026 Summer Reading Program, themed “Unearth A Story,” with activities planned across Northwest Georgia — including special events at the Chattooga and Trion libraries.
The program officially begins Tuesday, May 26, and runs through July 18. This year’s theme focuses on dinosaurs, archaeology, discovery, and storytelling, encouraging children, teens, and adults to explore reading through hands-on activities and creative programs.
The Chattooga Library in Summerville will host its Summer Reading Kickoff event on Saturday, May 30, beginning at 11 a.m. The event will feature East TN Entertainment with live dinosaur-themed activities for all ages. According to event information, participants will meet baby dinosaurs, play games, and dig for fossils.
Library officials say this year’s reading challenge has been updated. Instead of earning badges, readers will now earn points for reading books, writing reviews, and completing activities. Participants can also earn bonus points by attending kickoff events.
Programs will be available for all age groups throughout the summer and will include educational activities, crafts, performances, STEM programs, and reading incentives. Organizers say the goal is to help children maintain reading skills during summer break while giving families free opportunities to learn and have fun together.
The Sara Hightower Regional Library System serves Chattooga, Floyd, and Polk counties and includes branches in Summerville and Trion
Summerville Police Arrest Driver Following Traffic Stop and DUI Investigation
The Summerville Police Department arrested a driver Saturday night following a traffic stop that led to a DUI investigation.
According to reports filed by Officer A. Wentz, police stopped a Honda CRV on Commerce Street after observing the vehicle fail to maintain its lane while traveling on Cleghorn Street and Commerce Street.
When the officer approached the vehicle, he reported smelling a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from inside. The driver, identified as Mr. Mendez, reportedly spoke very limited English, prompting officers to request assistance from a translator.
Police said Mendez admitted to drinking and told officers he had consumed about two minutes before getting into the vehicle to drive. Officers also discovered he did not possess a driver’s license.
Field sobriety tests were conducted, and the report states Mendez showed multiple signs of impairment during the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, Walk and Turn test, and One Leg Stand test. Officers reported observing issues with balance, coordination, and following instructions during testing.
According to the report, Mendez later agreed to provide a breath sample on an alco-sensor, which registered a reading of .260 — more than three times Georgia’s legal limit of .08.
Police said Mendez was placed under arrest for DUI and transported to Atrium Health Floyd for a blood draw before being booked into the Chattooga County Jail without incident.
Georgia DPS Urges Safe Driving For Memorial Day Weekend
As Georgia travelers prepare for the Memorial Day holiday weekend, the Georgia Department of Public Safety is urging drivers to make safety a top priority.
The holiday travel period begins at 6 p.m. Friday, May 22, and continues through midnight Monday, May 25. During that 78-hour period, Georgia State Patrol troopers and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officers will increase patrols statewide, focusing on speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, seat belt violations, and other dangerous driving behaviors.
DPS officials say Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of the summer travel season and is historically one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
During last year’s Memorial Day holiday period, the Georgia State Patrol investigated 331 crashes, which resulted in 120 injuries and six deaths. Troopers and CVE officers also arrested 400 people for DUI.
DPS Commissioner Colonel William W. Hitchens III said Memorial Day is a time to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the country, while also reminding drivers to celebrate responsibly and safely.
Motorists are encouraged to never drive impaired, avoid distractions, wear seat belts, properly restrain children, obey speed limits, allow extra travel time, and move over for emergency vehicles and roadside workers.
AAA projects 39.1 million people will travel by car over the Memorial Day weekend. According to INRIX, some of the heaviest travel times are expected Thursday afternoon and evening, Friday from late morning through evening, and Monday afternoon.
Reported Stolen Vehicle Case In Summerville Determined To Be Civil Dispute
A vehicle reported stolen in Summerville over the weekend has now been determined to be part of a civil dispute, according to the Summerville Police Department.
Police originally received a report Saturday night regarding a blue 1996 Ford Ranger that was allegedly stolen from the area of State Street at Hawkins. The complainant, Danial Williamson, told officers he had parked the truck while attending a funeral celebration and discovered it missing when he returned.
However, a supplemental report filed Monday by Detective P. Cox states that investigators later spoke with John Lee, the registered owner of the truck. Lee reportedly told police that Williamson had not fully paid for the vehicle and had previously been warned the truck would be repossessed because of non-payment.
According to the report, Lee confirmed he had since repossessed the Ford Ranger.
Police later contacted Williamson, who reportedly acknowledged there were civil issues involving the sale and purchase of the truck and said he planned to handle the matter through other means.
Authorities said the information would be forwarded to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office so the vehicle could be removed from GCIC records as stolen.
Six-Year-Old Finds Firearm On Summerville Playground
The Summerville Police Department says a six-year-old child found a loaded firearm on a playground at Summerville Gardens.
According to an incident report, Officer Matt Kinnamon was dispatched to 127 Summerville Gardens on May 14 after maintenance technician Adam Gill reported the discovery. Gill told police the child found the firearm and brought it to him.
Gill unloaded the gun, removed the magazine, and reported the incident. Police said the firearm was checked through dispatch and was confirmed not to be stolen.
Officer Kinnamon collected the firearm and placed it into evidence for safekeeping.
Summerville Montessori To Hold End-Of-Year Parade Thursday
Summerville Montessori School will celebrate its students with an end-of-year parade on Thursday, May 21, at 5 p.m.
The parade will begin at Chattooga High School, travel down Highway 114 to Highway 27, and continue to the school.
Family, friends, and community members are invited to come out and support the students and celebrate their achievements from the school year.
Any graduating seniors who previously attended Montessori are also invited to take part in the parade and serve as grand marshals in recognition of their graduation and accomplishments.