WISK / WDEC

“Local News’

Friday November 27th, 2020

A tragic Thanksgiving in Americus and Sumter County with 3 homicides within 24 hours. The Sumter County Sheriffs Office is investigating the first homicide happened Wednesday night around 6 p.m. in the Rainbow Terrace area. An arrest was made there. Americus Police are investigating the second one that happened Wednesday around 8:45 p.m. on Lester Street. Kedrick Deon Williams was the victim there. A Suspect has been arrested there also. And Now The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office is now investigating a homicide in the 200 block of Middle River Road. Sumter County’s Coroner says he was called to the scene just before 12:30 p.m on Thanksgiving. Deputies said first responders found the victim dead on the scene. The victim’s name is Richard Pitts, 48. An autopsy will be conducted next week.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is assisting. A suspect is in custody. The suspect’s name has not been released at this time.

Tomorrow November 28th, Americus will host its downtown-wide small business weekend event. Inspired by the annual American Express event :Small Business Saturday”, downtown Americus aims to extend the festivities and give shoppers ample time to start their holiday shopping, downtown Americus merchants will have discounts, extended hours, specials and more this festive weekend. Shoppers are invited to come experience all the unique items and gifts the downtown businesses have to offer while strolling the scenic downtown. If you’re looking for something unique then check out the many specialty stores. For more information, go to the Downtown Americus-Main Street Facebook page. Black Friday shopping is much different this year with many local and chain stores opening early instead of starting on Thanksgiving Day as in year’s past.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program (LIHEAP) is this Tuesday December 1st for 1 day only. Applicants must be US citizens or legally admitted aliens. This will be a drive-thru event from 8 to 5:30 at Union Tabernacle Baptist Church on Adderton Street. You will never have to leave your vehicle. You can also call on Tuesday and sign-up. Those numbers to call are 478-472-3607 or 855-473-9423. This LIHEAP sign-up is for the general public this Tuesday December 1st only.

The offices of the City of Americus and Sumter County are closed today in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. All offices resume normal business hours on Monday November 30th.

Trash pickup is also altered due to the holiday. Thursday’s normal trash pickup is today and if Friday is your normal trash pickup, your trash will be picked up tomorrow.

Weather permitting, Willett Way Wonderland will be lit up tonight but Santa will NOT be sitting out this year. Instead, a stand-in Santa will be present in Santa’s House so you can continue to take pictures at Willett Way Wonderland.