By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great local journalism.
Some trouble on lake, but no fatalities in Forsyth over holiday weekend
lake

FORSYTH COUNTY — Independence Day celebrations over the weekend in Forsyth County did not result in any fatalities on roads or Lake Lanier, authorities said.

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office did, however, record eight arrests for driving under the influence and one for boating under the influence between Friday-Sunday.

According to Robin Regan, a spokesman for the sheriff’s office, the agency did not respond to any “fireworks-related issues.”

July 1 marked the beginning of a new law that allows the purchase of aerial fireworks in Georgia.

In addition to the BUI handled by the sheriff’s office, Georgia Department of Natural Resources rangers made 12 BUI arrests.

This number marked eight more than the holiday period in 2014.

“It’s a disappointing statistic to me,” said Mark McKinnon, DNR public information officer. “I really want to see those numbers come down, and I really want to see those numbers at zero.”

A dozen rangers on six boats patrolled Lanier over the weekend. There is no rhyme or reason, McKinnon said of the increase.

“We let them know that we’re going to be out there enforcing it,” he said. “Still, a lot of people have the mentality that drinking and boating go together.”

Rangers in the Gainesville region responded to five boating incidents and reported four injuries, compared to last year’s three incidents and single injury.

McKinnon said the incidents were minor and didn’t involve serious injuries.

 

Nick Watson of the FCN regional staff contributed to this report.

Weather
CUMMING WEATHER