Black bears are making repeated visits to a neighborhood along Dripping Springs Road in LaFayette. Residents say bears have been spotted over the past two weeks at at least four homes, getting into deer feeders and garbage cans. One homeowner told WQCH a bear even climbed onto his porch and damaged handrails. The latest sighting was reported Tuesday night. Wildlife officials say black bear sightings are becoming more common across northwest Georgia and remind residents to secure trash, remove outdoor food sources, and never approach or feed a bear.
The Walker County Sheriff’s Office says a Flintstone couple is facing child trafficking and sex crime charges following an investigation into the alleged abuse of a child. Authorities say 60-year-old David Rutherford and 43-year-old Heather Rutherford were arrested May 22nd in Rhea County, Tennessee, with assistance from several law enforcement agencies in Georgia and Tennessee. Investigators say warrants include charges of trafficking, rape, and aggravated sodomy. A search warrant was also executed at the couple’s Flintstone home. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say no additional details will be released at this time.
Walker County voters will head back to the polls for the 2026 General Primary Runoff Election. Early voting begins June 8th and continues through June 12th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Walker County Elections Office in LaFayette and the Chickamauga Civic Center. Election Day is Tuesday, June 16th. Election officials remind voters that those who participated in a party primary must vote in the same party’s runoff. Voters who did not vote in the primary election may choose either runoff ballot. Those who previously voted a nonpartisan ballot are also eligible to select either party’s runoff ballot. Residents are encouraged to make plans now to vote.
Walker County residents are invited to help shape the county’s future during a public stakeholder meeting tonight. The meeting on the Walker County Comprehensive Plan update will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Walker County Civic Center in Rock Spring. County officials say the plan will help guide future growth, development, infrastructure, and community priorities. Residents are encouraged to attend and share ideas and feedback. A third stakeholder meeting is already scheduled for June 25th at the Civic Center.