Fayette County

A single-vehicle crash that occurred in the pre-dawn hours of Thursday, Oct. 31, has claimed the life of a Fayette man. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), Thomas Bellsnyder IV, 32, was fatally injured when the 2009 Chevrolet Equinox he was driving left the roadway and struck a tree. Bellsnyder was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger in the Chevrolet Equinox, Jennifer L. Chaney Franks, 36, of Fayette, was injured and airlifted to UAB Hospital in Birmingham for treatment. The crash occurred on Co. Rd.

As Veterans Day approaches, we reflect on the remarkable stories of service and sacrifice that have shaped our nation. One such story is that of Milborn Savage, whose service highlights dedication, faith, and unity.

The Fayette County Commission held its regular meeting on Monday, Oct. 28, at the Courthouse Annex Building. The meeting began with a prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Asher Cox. All commissioners were present except for District Five Commissioner Robert Townley.

Fayette was forever changed by a heartbreaking tragedy that occurred one summer night in 1971. On Wednesday, July 21, six-year-old Mary Ann Johnson was found dead. According to the Broadcaster newspaper, her unclothed body was discovered in a wooded area near the Spring Street Housing Project after a frantic search by local law enforcement. The incident cast a long shadow over the community, a sorrow that lingers even today.

A single-vehicle crash that occurred around 5:45 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 25, has claimed the life of a Florence woman. Madalyn G. Powell, 28, was fatally injured when the 2009 Kia Rio she was driving left the roadway and struck a culvert. Powell was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The crash occurred on Hwy 13 near mile marker 237, approximately seven miles north of Berry. The crash is under investigation by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).

The Fayette County Commission held its regular meeting on Monday, Oct. 22, at the Courthouse Annex Building. Commission Chairman Mike Freeman led the meeting, opening with a prayer followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. All commissioners were present except for District Four commissioner Wesley Jacobs.

The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s assistance for any information regarding break-ins at three local churches. The burglaries have occurred over the past month. The churches that were targeted are all within the same geographical area on County Road 35. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with any information is urged to call the sheriff’s office at (205) 932-3205.

A defendant responsible for the murder of his former wife has been sentenced to serve two life sentences in prison, 24th Judicial Circuit District Attorney Andy Hamlin announced.

In the small town of Fayette, clogging was more than just a dance; it is a way of life for Bama Renfroe Bates. The local instructor turned her passion into a vibrant community. With her jingling taps, she continues to welcome students of all ages to her classes.