Fayette County

County considered an “ambulance desert”

We have seven minutes to be en route once the call comes in. - Greg Rainey

Across the nation, emergency medical services (EMS) are struggling under increasing financial and logistical pressures. Fayette County, along with other rural areas, is experiencing funding and staffing challenges that can pose risks for residents needing urgent care. Greg Rainey, who has dedicated 38 years to serving his community, offers a sobering look at the unseen struggles of rural EMS.

Woods sheds light on unspoken burden veterans carry

Photo of SPC. Ray Joseph Hutchinson of Texas, who was killed in a roadside bomb attack during their tour of Iraq. | Contributed photo

Sam Woods, a native of Fayette County, shared his journey of military service, reflecting on sacrifice, duty and remembrance. After graduating from Fayette County High School in 1999, he joined the U.S. Army, inspired partly by his family’s military background and the desire for personal growth beyond college.

Where is the money? Concerns raised over possible misappropriations

I want to know where the money is from the equipment that was sold. That’s what the people in the county want to know. Where’s that money at? Somebody knows.  - Billy “Jo Jo” Rogers

The Fayette County Commission held its regular meeting on Monday, May 12, at the courthouse annex building. The meeting began with a prayer led by Commission Chairman Mike Freeman, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Freeman called the meeting to order with all commissioners present except District Four Commissioner Wesley Jacobs.

Remains found in case of missing toddler

Investigators sifted through 14 barrels of debris from burn piles collected at the family’s residence at 13635 Hwy. 129 in Glen Allen. | Photo courtesy of the Fayette County Sheriff's Office

In an exclusive interview, Fayette County Sheriff Byron Yerby shared details about the investigation that led to the discovery of remains believed to be those of missing toddler, Kahleb Rowan Collins. The sheriff’s office, along with the assistance of multiple agencies, launched an intensive search immediately after Kahleb’s disappearance that was reported on Dec. 9, 2024.

March for Jesus set for May 17

March for Jesus participants are shown above at last year’s event. | Aerial photo by Tommy Williams

On Saturday, May 17, community members will gather for the 27th Annual March for Jesus. The March will begin at 9 a.m. at the Fayette Train Depot Museum in downtown Fayette and will conclude with a prayer rally at Fayette First Baptist Church. This year’s theme, inspired by Titus 2:13 — “Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ”— sets the tone for a powerful day of praise and fellowship. For early marchers, biscuits will be served at 8:15 a.m., and balloons will be handed out at 8:30 a.m. before the event begins.

New charges in case of missing toddler

Photo of Wendy Pamela Bailey, left, and John Elton Bailey | Photo courtesy of the Fayette County Jail

New charges have recently been filed in the case of the missing toddler. A preliminary hearing for John and Wendy Bailey was held Wednesday, April 9, at the Fayette County Courthouse. According to court documents, a grand jury indicted Wendy Bailey and her father in connection with the case of her missing son, Kahleb Rowan Collins.