By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Accident blocks off part of I-20 near exit 90
Placeholder Image
Staff Report
Updated: Jan 10, 2013, 7:52 PM
Published: Jan 10, 2013, 7:53 PM

An accident on Interstate 20 just west of exit 90 is blocking traffic, with the Covington-Newton County 911 Center reporting both east and westbound lanes are blocked off. According to a law enforcement official, a car flipped over on the Interstate close to where Mama Maria's is located.

An employee of The News driving on the interstate reported that eastbound traffic in the area was moving very slowly and that westbound traffic appeared to be at a standstill. The 911 Center is advising people to use an alternate route.
Newton County native charged with threatening school in Warren County
Mason Garrett taught at Warren County High School
mason garrett
Mason Garrett, a Newton County man, was arrested for making terroristic threats at Warren County High School. Photo via McDuffie County Sheriff's Office.
Kate Verity
Updated: May 9, 2025, 9:23 PM
Published: May 9, 2025, 9:14 PM

WARREN COUNTY — The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) arrested a Newton County native who taught at a school 75 miles east of Covington.

Mason Garrett, 22, was arrested on April 29 for making verbal threats at Warren County High School (WCHS), where he is a teacher. 

According to a press release from the GBI, Garrett – a 2020 Alcovy High School graduate –  allegedly made verbal threats to shoot staff and students at WCHS. The incident reportedly occurred on school premises on April 24.

“On Monday, April 28, 2025, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer requested the GBI to investigate a potential incident involving terroristic threats and acts made by a teacher at the school,” the press release states.

The following day, the GBI arrested Garrett and charged him with one felony count of terroristic threats and acts. He was booked into the McDuffie County Jail.

The GBI is continuing to investigate the situation. Following the investigation, Garrett will be prosecuted in the Toombs Judicial Circuit.

The GBI requests that anyone with information call 706-595-2575. Additionally, anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or on the See Something, Send Something mobile app.