The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is examining a fatal officer-involved shooting that took place late Monday night in a residential neighborhood of unincorporated Marietta. Cobb County Police officers responded around 10:40 p.m. on February 16, 2026, to reports of possible gunfire near a home on Bradley Avenue, close to Windy Hill Road, where the incident occurred.
Cobb County Superintendent Chris Ragsdale is standing firm after politically charged student walkouts disrupted multiple high schools, warning that leaving campus during instructional hours is “one of the most dangerous things students can do.” District leaders say the demonstrations were fueled by outside activist groups and posed serious safety risks, while some elected officials openly supported the protests. At a recent board meeting, Ragsdale and Chairman Randy Scamihorn emphasized discipline, campus security, and the need to keep political movements from interfering with public education.
A renewed grand jury indictment against Democrat Cobb County Clerk of Superior Court Connie Taylor has brought fresh scrutiny to allegations of public record destruction and a long-standing Georgia law that allowed clerks to personally collect passport processing fees. The case has raised broader questions about transparency, use of taxpayer-funded resources, and how hundreds of thousands of dollars in passport income went largely undisclosed until records were requested. Lawmakers have since moved to close the loophole, even as the legal case continues.
Rep. Barry Loudermilk’s decision not to seek re-election in 2026 has opened Georgia’s 11th Congressional District for the first time in more than a decade, setting the stage for a competitive open-seat race. With the advantage of incumbency gone, Republicans are expected to face a crowded primary field, while Democrats look for a potential opening in a district that has long leaned conservative. Candidate qualifying closes March 6, 2026, with the May primary offering the first test of voter sentiment in this new political landscape.
The Cobb County School District is pushing back against planned student walkouts during school hours, warning that participating could result in suspension and other disciplinary actions. District officials say outside activists are encouraging students to disrupt class time, raising concerns among parents and school leaders about maintaining order, discipline, and focus on education. School Board Chairman Randy Scamihorn called in-school protests “inappropriate and ill-advised,” emphasizing the need for consistent enforcement of school policies.
On a brisk fall morning in Cobb County, students at Kemp Elementary witnessed a moment they’ll never forget—a surprise reunion between two young children and their father, Army Staff Sergeant David Miller, home from deployment. Cheers of “U-S-A!” filled the gym as Emma and Noah rushed into their father’s arms, bringing teachers and students alike to tears. This touching scene reminds us all of the sacrifices made by military families—and the deep gratitude we owe them.
Acworth is set to welcome a $1 billion Wellstar hospital that will bring over 1,500 new jobs and expanded healthcare access. Alderman Tim Richardson, a key leader in the project, shares how the city is ensuring smart growth, protecting community character, and keeping residents at the center of progress
Cobb teachers received a mass email from activist Luma Mufleh, founder and CEO of Fugees Family Inc., urging them to share sensitive immigration information with families. Cobb County Schools responded firmly, reaffirming their commitment to student safety and the law. Citing violation of federal privacy laws, putting educators at legal risk.
The Cobb County School District is standing firm, declaring it “will not be moved” on enforcing professionalism among staff. Superintendent Chris Ragsdale emphasized that free speech has limits when it crosses into celebrating violence or undermining trust, safety, and the integrity of the classroom. Despite petitions and community pressure, the district says its duty is clear: uphold professional standards and protect students.
Cobb County School District officials are reviewing whether recent comments made by teachers on social media violated district communication policy. The review comes in the wake of the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a school/college event, which sparked a wave of online discussion, including among local educators.
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