Sheriff’s Office investigates shooting in Topton
Police & Government May 2, 2018MURPHY, N.C. — Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated that shortly after 7:30 a.m. May 1, 2018, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office received a call for assistance at a residence on Bryson Branch Road, in the Topton community of Cherokee County. The nature of the call was a possible domestic situation.
As units were responding to the scene, information was provided that someone may have been shot at the residence. Emergency Services personnel were dispatched and staged until units from the Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene. Once on scene, the arriving deputy was able to determine that a 39-year-old male had been shot and required medical attention.
EMS arrived and transported the individual to a location where he was later flown to the University of Tennessee Medical Center. His condition is unknown at this time.
The investigation continued late into the afternoon, as several individuals were interviewed and search warrants were completed at the residence. The investigation is continuing and ongoing, and when complete, it will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for further review.
Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated, “At this time, I will not comment further concerning this investigation as it is ongoing. I can say that we are not looking for any additional person(s) of interest in this case. The teamwork displayed today between law enforcement and Emergency Services is outstanding, and we appreciate the level of professionalism displayed by all today. As always, these are difficult cases on everyone involved.”
To report suspicious activity and suspect violations of the law, please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at [email protected].
6 Charged in Federal Case
Police & Government April 11, 2018Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced following a 2-year investigation 6 individuals were charged on federal indictments for the illegal possession and distribution of controlled substances in Cherokee County.
In early 2016 Detectives with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit received information regarding the Trafficking of Methamphetamine into Cherokee County from the Metro Atlanta Area. Detectives initiated an investigation into the source of the Methamphetamine being brought into Cherokee County. During the course of the investigation Detectives conducted numerous hours of surveillance, undercover purchases of Methamphetamine, multiple interviews and traffic stops resulting in multiple seizures of Methamphetamine. It was later determined during the course of the investigation that the contact for this source of Methamphetamine was an inmate in the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Detectives from the Cherokee County Narcotics Unit began a joint investigation with agents from the Georgia Department of Corrections, the GBI, FBI, DEA and the US Attorney’s Office. As a result of that investigation six federal indictments were issued for Conspiracy to Sell and Deliver Methamphetamine and for the Sale and Delivery of Methamphetamine for the following persons:
Glen McTaggart (confined Georgia Prison)
Dale Hamilton Dutto (confined Georgia Prison)
Isaac Daniel Hughes (not yet arrested)
Carla Blair Lloyd (currently being held)
Candice Brooke Cole (currently being held)
James Donald Taylor (currently being held)
McTaggart and Dutto are currently incarcerated in the Georgia Department of Corrections, federal detainers have been issued for both. Taylor and Cole are currently being held in the Cherokee County Detention Center on other charges, federal detainers have been issued for both. Lloyd was taken into federal custody and is being held in the Cherokee County Detention Center for the US Marshals. Hughes is currently at large.
Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated “Again, these investigations are completed over night. This is a push in the right direction as we continue our war against drugs!”
To report suspicious activity and suspect violations of the law please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at [email protected].
MHS Wrestling: Farmer caps off senior season with state title
Team FYN Sports February 18, 2018
Murphy High School is known for having quality academics and talented athletes. With a decorated history of state champions in literally every sport but hockey, this past weekend another Murphy athlete brought yet another state championship back to the Dawg House. And if you’re scratching your head – no, Murphy doesn’t have a hockey team – but if they did, the Bulldogs would probably find a way to win at that, too.
Cory Farmer, a senior at Murphy High School, won the 1A NCHSAA State Championship this weekend. Photo courtesy of MHS Wrestling and Brandy Farmer, photographer.
TeamFYNSports has the pleasure of tracking and covering athletic performances throughout nine North Georgia counties and Cherokee Co, NC. While we interact with coaches, athletes, and college scouts on a daily basis, the best part of our job lies in the opportunity to highlight young athletes in a positive way. Thankfully there’s a 195-lb senior at MHS that made our job a whole lot easier this week.
Cory Farmer could be seen making big hits on the football field earlier in the school year. The veteran middle linebacker was the heart of what many would argue was one of the very best defenses in the state of North Carolina. When his high school football career ended, he transitioned from knocking people down at the line of scrimmage to throwing them and pinning them on the wrestling mats.
Photo courtesy of MHS Wrestling and Brandy Farmer, photographer.
A natural athlete, Farmer is no stranger to hard work. He put in countless hours of training with MHS head coach Daniel Ledford, his father Josh Farmer, and his teammates; learning and working within one of the most decorated high school wrestling programs in all of Western North Carolina (not to mention North Georgia and Eastern Tennessee).
Last year, Farmer was the state runner-up. Just two weeks ago, he finished third at the regional tournament. Winning state was never a guarantee.
At the 1A NCHSAA state wrestling tournament, Farmer’s resume was as impressive as his humble – yet hungry attitude. He came in with 24 wins and only two losses this season, and opened Day One with a big win over Dylan Jones (32-11), who nearly finished 3rd overall. Jones, a senior at Uwharrie Charter, lost the battle for 3rd place by a 2-0 decision from Farmer’s next victim (Edwards, EASU).
After defeating Jones in just two minutes and 39 seconds, Farmer locked up with top-seeded junior Mitchell Edwards of East Surry. Edwards also had only two losses coming into state, and had 28 wins to his merit. Farmer won a 3-2 decision in one of the most exciting matches of the entire event, advancing to the championship final.
Farmer went on to defeat senior Jonathan Zafra of Manteo with a 12-3 majority decision to claim the state championship crown.
“It feels real good and it’s a relief after being runner up last year,” Farmer told TeamFYNSports Sunday afternoon.
We asked if he was considering wrestling at the college level next year. “I’m not sure yet, but I have a few offers,” Farmer replied. With his skillset and his work ethic, we look forward to reporting in the future on Farmer’s final decision after high school.
All photos courtesy of Murphy High School Wrestling and Brandy Farmer, contributing photographer.
Murphy Lady Bulldogs break Cherokee’s 30-game streak
Murphy Bulldogs, Team FYN Sports January 28, 2018
The Murphy Lady Bulldogs have been nothing short of legendary this season, but that’s nothing new for them. Last year the varsity girls went 26-2, falling by only one point in the Elite 8 to the eventual state champions.
“I couldn’t ask for a better team. They work extremely hard and do everything asked of them,” Murphy head coach Ray Gutierrez told TeamFYNSports last week. This week was no exception.
The Lady Bulldogs (18-1, 7-0) kicked last week off with a 52-32 win on the road at Hayesville, followed by a 74-26 road win over Andrews.
Jessica Beckner (15) pulls in a tough rebound while Sydni Addison (35) and Bri Moore (10) assist defensively in a game earlier this season. Photo by Jenni Dixon, TeamFYNSports.
Sydni Addison, the ball hawk of the night, had seven steals on defense, scored six points and pulled in seven rebounds.
How do you beat two great wins on the road? You turn around and win two big games back-to-back at home.
How do you beat a 19-90 road win over Nantahala (Topton, NC)? You hold them under 10 points of offense.
On Friday, Nantahala took a rough road trip down to Murphy only to leave with their lowest offensive performance of the season. The Lady Bulldogs (wo)man-handled the Lady Hawks, coming away with a 77-8 home win, their 17th team victory of the season. They knew Saturday night’s game would be a true test.
Following the huge win over Nantahala, the Braves of Cherokee High (then 10-4, 7-0), came to Murphy for the matchup the entire state of North Carolina has been waiting to see.
“Cherokee had won 30 straight regular season conference games,” coach Gutierrez said of their opponent. “The gym was packed and both teams played their guts out. It was a great atmosphere for a basketball game.”
The first quarter was a close one – much closer than many of the games Murphy has played this season – with the Lady Bulldogs holding only a 4-point margin over the Braves, 18-14. The Lady Bulldogs, who average more than 60-points per game, were hitting their usual offensive numbers; but the Braves’ offense was up to the task early-on, making this game a true challenge for Murphy.
The ability of the Murphy Lady Bulldogs’ defense to collapse on the ball and apply pressure for four full quarters of basketball is a large part of their success this season. Photo by Jenni Dixon, TeamFYNSports.
By halftime, Murphy had extended their lead by only one point. Trailing by five (43-38), the Braves were still in a dangerous position and neither team was a sure victor. Sharpshooters Clapsaddle and Pickens refused to leave the game in anyone’s hands other than their own. The two combined for 8-of-11 3-point attempts, combining for 31% of the total points for the Lady Bulldogs.
In the end, the Lady Bulldogs held on to defeat the Cherokee Braves 77-74, giving the Braves their first conference loss of the season (breaking a 30-game streak).
Clapsaddle scored 30 points, while Pickens had 14. Beckner scored 12 points in the game while Thompson scored nine points, Bri Moore had six, Martin scored four points and Addison scored a basket for two. Addison led the team with rebounds (8), while Beckner also pulled in eight boards, three offensively and five on defense.
Andrews woman arrested for falsely reporting crimes
Press Release January 24, 2018
MURPHY, N.C.— Cherokee County Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced the Jan. 16, 2018, arrest of 28-year-old Samantha Carol Head, of Andrews, North Carolina, for falsely reporting crimes.
On Jan. 14, 2018, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation of a female who during the past two years had been calling the administrative phone lines at the 911 center and falsely reporting an array of crimes. The reports included vehicle accidents, fights, and breaking and entering in progress. Head was identified as the calling party, and it was later determined that she was using an Android phone application on her phone to disguise her number.
Head was brought to the Cherokee County Detention Center where she was booked on 19 counts of falsely reporting an incident. Head was released on a $10,000 unsecure bond and is expected to be in Cherokee County District Court Feb. 26, 2018.
Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated, “This type of crime might appear insignificant, but in reality, could have some serious implications. Not only does this tie up our communicators who may be needed on real emergencies, it also ties up law enforcement and other public safety agencies whose services may be needed to attend to serious life-threatening situations.”
To report suspicious activity and suspected violations of the law, please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at [email protected].
Maroon Devils outlast Bulldogs, 29-27
Murphy Bulldogs, Murphy High October 22, 2017
By Tiffany Santos, TeamFYNSports Reporter:
The crisp October air set the tone for the friday night football game between the Murphy Bulldogs (7-2, 3-1) and Swain County Maroon Devils (5-4, 4-1). The last time Murphy went up against this rival, the Bulldogs handed the Maroon Devils a harrowing loss (35-3). October 20th’s game between the rivalry schools was a different story. The Bulldogs put up a great effort but fell short by a 2-pt loss with a final score of 29-27; Swain taking home the win and the bragging rights.
In the 1st Quarter, senior #12 Brodie Bowman from Swain County scored the first touchdown with a 9-yard blast to paydirt. However, #11 Tanner Wiggins’ PAT was no good. With the missed kick, Swain started the game with a lead of 6-0.
Murphy answered with a touchdown by senior quarterback (#1) Joey Curry, who threw a pass complete to senior receiver (#4) DeAndre Jackson for 58 yards. The PAT was spot on by senior kicker and female football superstar (#3) Katelyn Jones. With this touchdown Murphy led Swain 7-6 as the 1st quarter came to a close.
The 2nd quarter exploded with two touchdowns for Murphy, and two for Swain. It seemed like each team was coming in strong without backing down. With 0:51 seconds left in the 1st half, Murphy quarterback (#1) Joey Curry threw a 17-yard pass complete to (#2) Micah Nelson. Jones once again showed how she earned her jersey, making good on her PAT kick. The TD and PAT tied the score up 20-all going into halftime.
By the end of the 3rd, Murphy was leading Swain with a score of 27-26, but a 24-yard field goal was successfully attempted by Swain County #11 Tanner Wiggins, bringing the lead to Swain County with a 29-27 score. It’s safe to conclude that penalties and mental mistakes may have cost Murphy the game, as the Bulldogs were penalized a total of 14 times for 131 yards on the night.
Nearing the end of the 4th Quarter, a player for the Bulldogs made a mistake that put Murphy in a 4th and 72 play. The player recovered the ball that was fumbled by his own team, but mistakenly ran the wrong way. Thankfully a teammate was able to stop him from running any further.
“I ain’t blaming this on anybody, I blame this on everybody. Not just one side,” Murphy Bulldogs Coach Gentry told TeamFYNSports. “Everybody that stepped on this field tonight didn’t do their job. It’s that simple. It’s not what tonight is, it’s how you react to it, and how big you come back!”
All-in-all, the Bulldogs and Maroon Devils put up a good fight, but in the end the Maroon Devils were the ones to taste victory. Sportswriter’s note: They say those that never win, never learn from loss. From hearing Murphy’s head coach speak about this defeat, I believe the Bulldogs will be able to learn from this game and make any changes necessary to continue on the road to the State Championships.
The Murphy Bulldogs (7-2, 3-1) have a home conference game vs Rosman (2-7, 1-3) this Friday, October 27th, 2017 @ 7:30pm.
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Changes made to upcoming Board of Commissioners Meetings
Business July 18, 2017
MURPHY,Cherokee Co, N.C.-
The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners have rescheduled the August 7th board meeting to August 15th. The August 15th meeting will be held at the usual time of 6:30pm at Cherokee County Courthouse, in Downtown Murphy, N.C.
The Board of Commissioners have also canceled its August 21st meeting, in respect to the Great American Solar Eclipse event.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that covers Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. If you would like to follow up-to-date local events in any of those counties, please visit us at FetchYourNews.com
John Clayton “JC” Newton: Obituary
Obituaries November 26, 2018August 22, 1944 – November 18, 2018
Mr. John Clayton “JC” Newton, age 74 of Marble, entered his heavenly home on Sunday, November 18, 2018 at his home with his family by his side. Mr. Newton was born August 22, 1944 in Murphy, NC to the late Lester Newton and the late Mary Ann Laney Newton. A member of Tomotla Baptist Church, he was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Crayton Newton and son, John Brian Newton. In his spare time, JC enjoyed farming, hunting, and going to livestock sales. He was an animal lover and he enjoyed taking them in and caring for them.
Survivors include loving wife of 53 years, Sallie Ruth Newton, son and daughter-in-law, John Steven and Mary Newton, brother and sister-in-law, Albert and Becky Newton, brother and sister-in-law, Therman and Jody Newton, sister and brother-in-law, Verdie and Joe Patterson, sister and brother-in-law, Annie Mae and Bobby Dockery, three grandchildren, Heather Newton, Greg Newton, and Michael Newton, and one great-grandchild, Little John Newton. Also several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 20, 2018 at 2:00 pm at the Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy with the Rev. Mitchell Totherow officiating. Music provided by Regina Owens Delili and Mary Newton. Interment will follow in the Little Brasstown Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Greg Newton, Michael Newton, Jason Newton, Jack Newton, Bronson Newton, Heather Newton, Marty Cook and Terry Macky. Honorary pallbearer is Jamie Reynolds.
The family will receive friends at the Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy on Monday evening, November 19, 2018 from 5-9 pm.
Arrangements entrusted to the Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy, NC. You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.
Peter Anthony Argo: Obituary
Obituaries November 7, 2018
Peter Anthony Argo
07/13/1930 – 10/29/2018
Joan Proksch: Obituary
Obituaries November 1, 2018Joan Proksch
11/08/1940 – 10/26/2018
She was born in Haywood County, NC to the late Ray Mercer and Mallie Wooten Anderson. Joan worked at Clifton Precision as an assistant personal manager.
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brothers: Jude, Ray Jr., Lynwood and Kenneth Anderson and sister, Brenda Teems.
She is survived by her brothers, Neal, Lane, Tommy, Robert and Terry Anderson; sister, Peggy Henson; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held at 2 pm, Monday, October 29, 2018 at the Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy. Rev. Aud Brown will officiate. Burial will be in the Hickory Stand United Methodist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Carl Henson, Joe Henson, Jimmy Henson and Greg Teems.
The family will receive friends from 12-2 pm, Monday, October 29, 2018 at the Townson-Rose Funeral Home in Murphy, NC.
Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.
Curtis Hewatt: Obituary
Obituaries November 1, 2018Curtis Hewatt
12/15/1967 – 10/25/2018
He was born in Gwinnett County, GA to the late Curtis Hewatt and Hazel Stroud and husband Boyd of Andrews, NC. Curtis was a self-employed painter.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his brother, Randy Hewatt; four sisters, Mary Brown, Jennifer Roper, Serena Hewatt and Cassandra Hewatt.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.
You may send tributes to the family at www.mem.com
Denise Elaine Holiway: Obituary
Obituaries October 25, 2018Denise Elaine Holiway, 53 years young, passed away Friday, October 12, 2018 at her home in Jacksonville, FL.
Denise was born December 31, 1964 in Lemasa, California to Shirley Holiway and the late Kenneth Holiway. She was the youngest of four children. Denise graduated high school at Hernando High School in Brooksville, FL.
Denise loved praising the Lord and singing in the choir. She loved to read her bible, and mark the verses.
Denise loved spending time with family, laughing and always wearing a smile. She was loving and caring person giving hugs to everyone. “To know her was to love her.”
Denise, surviving in addition to her mother, Shirley Holiway; sisters, Sheila Cenizal and Pamela Holiway; brother, David Holiway; brother-in-law, Roger Cenizal; sister-in-law, Gina Holiway; four nieces, five nephews, and 20 great-nieces and nephews in addition to cousins and friends.
Denise’s hobbies were bowling, swimming, playing go fish, working in her activity books and crayons.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:30 pm, Sunday, October 21, 2018 at the Harris Chapel Church of God.
The family will receive friends from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm, Sunday, October 21, 2018 at the Harris Chapel Church of God.
Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.
Wynn Anthony Abernathy: Obituary
Obituaries October 17, 2018
Wynn Anthony Abernathy, 52, of Murphy passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 16, 2016.
Wynn was born in Murphy, North Carolina on October 3, 1966 to Dr. F.L. (Linford) and Ginger DeWeese Abernathy. He graduated from Murphy High School in 1985. Wynn was an outgoing and friendly person with a loving heart. His most special times were spent with his family and friends. Wynn loved every holiday; planning the celebration and decorating was his fun times.
An avid outdoorsman, Wynn loved fishing, being on the lake and just hanging out with his friends. Another passion was restoring old cars. Wynn always participated in the car shows and traveled to those all over the Eastern United States.
After his graduation, Wynn worked with Steve Forrister and was later employed by Jacky Jones for 20 years in Cleveland, Georgia.
Wynn was preceded in death by his father, Dr. F.L. (Linford) Abernathy; paternal grandparents, “Frosty” and Illma Abernathy; and maternal grandparents, Ralph and Flonnie DeWeese.
Wynn is survived by one daughter, Emma Cowart and husband, Matt of Cleveland, Georgia; his mother, Ginger DeWeese Abernathy; one sister, April Harper and husband, Bill; one nephew, Matthew Harper; and one niece, Isabella Harper, all of Murphy.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, October 21, 2018 in Murphy First Baptist Church with the Revs. Jimmy Tanner and Fred Lunsford officiating. The inurnment will be at a later date in Moss Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Brent Hoover, Richie Hughey, Bill and Matt Harper, Matt Cowart, and Cody Ramey.
The family will receive friends from 2-2:45 Sunday afternoon at the Murphy First Baptist Church prior to the services.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Wynn Abernathy to the Good Neighbors Auto Club Scholarship, c/o Frankie Hughes, 1716 Martins Creek Road, Murphy, NC 28906.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy in charge of all arrangements.
Michael Irving Ruff: Obituary
Obituaries October 17, 2018
A graveside memorial service will be held for Irving Carl Ruff and his son, Michael Irving Ruff on Friday, October 19, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Greenlawn Cemetery with the Rev. Jimmy Tanner officiating. Irving, Beverly, and their family spent many memorable and wonderful years in Murphy.
Friends and acquaintances are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations can be made to the Gideons International, PO Box 164, Murphy, NC 28906 or First Baptist Church of Murphy, 517 Hiwassee Street, Murphy, NC 28906.
They are in our hearts, forever and always.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy in charge of local arrangements.
Johnny Lowery: Obituary
Obituaries October 5, 2018
Johnny Lowery, age 53, of Murphy, passed away Friday, September 7, 2018 in a Murphy hospital. Johnny was born in Tate, Georgia, but had lived in Cherokee County throughout his life. He had worked for Creative Woodworks as a cabinet maker for nearly 15 years. Johnny enjoyed racing, fishing, Tennessee football, and practical jokes was his favorite pastime. Johnny loved being a father and was proud of his family.
He was the son of the late Mark Lowery and Roberta James Harrell. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Louise Gulledge.
Surviving are his loving wife of 28 years, Shea Lowery; two daughters, Shelby and Morgan Lowery, both of the home; two sons, Heath Goad and wife, Kalie and Kelton Goad, all of Lubbock, Texas; a sister, Doris Pressley of Murphy; two brothers, Harold Lowery and wife, Teresa of Dalton, Georgia and Timothy Harrell and wife, Michelle of Marble; three grandchildren, Avery, Hunter, and Natalie Goad and another grandchild on the way. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
The family received friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy in charge of all arrangements.
Thomas W. Kline: Obituary
Obituaries October 5, 2018
Thomas W. Kline, age 76 went to be with the Lord Sunday September 23, 2018.
Tom was a veteran of the US Navy and later retired from Northwest Airlines after 39 years.
He is survived by his loving wife, Robin Kline; sister, Marybeth Schipke; brother, Robert Kline; two stepsons, Steven and Lloyd Hazelbaker; stepdaughter, Sharon Risner and six grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Alice and Charles Kline and brother, Donald Kline.
Tom was a member and treasurer of Messiah Chapter of The Brotherhood of St. Andrew and was a groundskeeper at the Episcopal Church of the Messiah.
Tom was a devoted fan of the Minnesota Vikings and The Minnesota Twins.
He was a good friend who would always lend a hand to anyone.
A memorial service will be held at 11 am, Thursday, September 27, 2018 at the Church of the Messiah.
Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.
You may send tributes to the family at www.mem.com