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Civil Air Patrol joins hurricane relief efforts in Augusta

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Civil Air Patrol joins hurricane relief efforts in Augusta


AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The Civil Air Patrol’s Georgia Wing joined the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency Sunday for Hurricane Helene relief efforts needed in the aftermath of the storm that left devastation across multiple eastern states.

Civil Air Patrol teams are assisting local officials with humanitarian efforts after the hurricane left millions of homes without power.

Teams of volunteers were sent to three locations in the Augusta area to assist in food and water distribution to local communities.

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The effort frees up emergency responders so they are able to continue focusing on life-saving calls for assistance, according to the Civil Air Patrol.

“Following Hurricane Helene, our trained and professional volunteers are ready to step in and provide critical support,” Georgia Wing Commander Col. Michael Willis. “Our commitment is to support our partners and ensure the people impacted by this disaster receive the assistance they need as quickly and effectively as possible.”

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
Hurricane Helene: Community updates from across CSRA

Take a look at the recent updates across the CSRA as a result of Hurricane Helene, including travel warnings, open gas stations, restaurants and grocery stores along with power outages and other updates for the public.

Augusta storm damage from Hurricane Helene.
Georgia Power crews deploy to help Texans affected by Beryl
Trees have fallen across the CSRA as a result of Hurricane Helene.

The Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, plays a critical role in emergency services and disaster response operations.

Working in close coordination with state and local agencies, volunteers provide essential support in times of need, often serving as a force multiplier when disasters strike.

Its diverse capabilities include aerial reconnaissance, search and rescue, and ground team support, to ensure timely and effective responses to natural and man-made disasters.

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During operations, CAP members assist by conducting aerial photography to assess storm damage, delivering essential supplies to isolated areas, and even performing search-and-rescue missions for missing people.



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Augusta, GA

25-year-old woman killed in shooting on Cameron Drive

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25-year-old woman killed in shooting on Cameron Drive


AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – One person has died after a shooting on Cameron Drive in Augusta early Friday morning.

The Richmond County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim as 25-year-old Khyla Rodriguez, of Augusta.

Richmond County deputies responded to the 3600 block of Cameron Drive around 1:11 a.m. for a suspicious situation.

While on scene, deputies spoke to the complainant who stated they got a call form an unknown person saying their friend was dead at the incident location.

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Deputies then searched the area, where they found Rodriguez on the ground unresponsive with several gun shot wounds to the stomach area.

The coroner’s office says Rodriguez was pronounced dead at 2:27 a.m. An autopsy has been scheduled.

As of 4:15 a.m., at least one deputy and crime scene crews were still on scene.

Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.



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Augusta, GA

Four indicted in Augusta on federal drug trafficking charges

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Four indicted in Augusta on federal drug trafficking charges


AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Four individuals from Augusta have been indicted by a federal Grand Jury on federal drug trafficking charges, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Southern District of Georgia announced Thursday.

The following individuals were indicted:

(Indictments contain charges, and defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty.)

  • Tyriquez McFadden, 39, and Nichael Lessey, 44, both of Augusta, charged in a five-count indictment with Possession with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl; Possession with Intent to Distribute 28 Grams or More of Crack Cocaine;  Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
  • Roman Kelly, 51, of Augusta, indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine; Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin; and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.

These charges carry statutory penalties up to life in prison, substantial financial penalties and a period of supervised release upon completion of any prison term.

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South Georgia wildfires 90% contained, but hot spots still a concern

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South Georgia wildfires 90% contained, but hot spots still a concern


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  • Two large wildfires in south Georgia have burned approximately 54,000 acres and are now 90% contained.
  • Suppression costs for the fires are estimated to exceed $18.3 million, with crews still managing hot spots.
  • Georgia remains in an extreme drought, increasing the risk of fires throughout the summer.

Two large wildfires burning in south Georgia were now 90% contained, as of Wednesday, after consuming about 54,000 acres, according to the Georgia Forestry Commission.

The Pineland Road Fire has burned 32,575 acres. The Highway 82 Fire has burned 22,420 acres.

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However, fuel conditions remain extremely dry, officials said. Containment continues to improve on both fires, but crews remain actively engaged in patrol, suppression, and mop-up operations.

Seth Hawkins, urban and community forestry program coordinator for the Georgia Forestry Commission, worked on the Highway 82 Fire in Brantley County, which is still about 22,000 acres. Suppression costs are estimated to exceed $18.3 million.

“The rain put out the active flame on that fire,” Hawkins said. “However, there’s still that deep layer, that organic material, burning, and hot spots can still flare up as soon as humidity drops.”

Hawkins said 166 people are still working hot spots on the Highway 82 fire, setting up sprinkler systems where needed.

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As of May 12, the State Forester burn ban has been lifted, but the Environmental Protection Division’s summer burn ban remains in place. Many counties may still have local ordinances. Georgia residents are encouraged to check with their county before burning.

The state remains in an extreme drought.

“It’s just unique down there because of all that organic fuel,” Hawkins said. “And when it dries out, it’s very susceptible to ignition. It’s going to be a long, hot, dry summer. We’re telling folks to keep their guard up and be safe with campfires and debris burning.”

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This reporting content is supported by a partnership with Journalism Funding Partners.

Erica Van Buren is the climate change reporter for The Augusta Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network. Connect with her at EVanBuren@usatodayco.com or on X: @EricaVanBuren32.



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