Two suspects are now in custody following a fatal weekend shooting in Ringgold. The Catoosa County Sheriff’s Office has identified the suspects as 18-year-old Eric James Link and 19-year-old Julian Williamson. Both are currently being held in Tennessee, awaiting extradition back to Catoosa County. Authorities say the investigation is still ongoing. The shooting occurred late Saturday night at a home on Indian Springs Road, where deputies responded to what was described as a chaotic scene, with more than 10 people gathered in the yard. According to Sheriff Gary Sisk, 24-year-old Daysha Lynch and 18-year-old Emma Lynch were both shot during the incident. Deputies provided first aid until EMS arrived. Tragically, Daysha Lynch later died from her injuries, while Emma is now recovering. Investigators believe a fight broke out during a party, leading to gunfire. The suspects, who fled the scene, were reportedly known to those attending. Again, the case remains under active investigation.
Tragedy struck on Lookout Mountain yesterday, where two people lost their lives in a hang-gliding accident. According to the Tri-State Mutual Aid Association, the fatal crash occurred shortly after the pair launched from the mountain. Dade County 911 received the emergency call. Due to the challenging location and limited manpower, crews called for additional support, including Dade County Mountain Rescue’s high-angle team and the rope team from Georgia Task Force 6 out of Catoosa County. Rescuers rappelled down the mountain, while others accessed the crash site from a private roadway. First responders confirmed that both individuals aboard the tandem hang-glider had died from traumatic injuries. The response then shifted to a recovery operation, coordinated with the Dade County Coroner’s Office, Georgia Aviation, and the Department of Natural Resources. The victims’ names have not yet been released, pending family notification. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
A special election has been scheduled for Tuesday, November 4th in Chattooga County. The special election will be held in conjunction with the Statewide Special Election for Public Service Commission Districts 2 and 3. Chattooga County voters will decide on two key sales tax proposals. The first question asks: “Shall a special 1 percent sales and use tax be imposed in Chattooga County for up to six years to raise an estimated $20.5 million for road improvement projects? These include paving, patching, resurfacing, widening, and drainage upgrades across the county.” The second question proposes: “A 1 percent sales and use tax for a period of five years, with all proceeds dedicated to reducing property taxes imposed by Chattooga County and the municipalities of Lyerly, Menlo, and Trion.” Voters are encouraged to learn more about each measure ahead of Election Day. Again, election day is set for Tuesday, November 4th.
It was a big night on the court for the LaFayette High School Ramblers Volleyball team! The Ramblers improved their impressive record to 31-and-9 after picking up two solid wins last night. First, LaFayette dominated Trion in straight sets. They kept the momentum going in their second match, taking down Unity Christian. Looking ahead, the Ramblers will be back in action this Thursday for a special evening — it’s Senior Night. They’ll face Darlington at 5 o’clock, followed by Coahulla Creek at 7. Senior recognition will take place after the first match, around 6:40 PM, as the team honors their graduating players. Congrats to the Ramblers, and best of luck Thursday night!