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Newton-Fatality in I-20 crash identified
NEWTON-One Fatality In I-20 Crash
i20-car-crash-site-mile marker 89
Staff Report
Updated: May 27, 2015, 2:21 PM
Published: May 27, 2015, 2:18 PM

52-year-old Joel William Simpson, a Newton County resident, has been confirmed dead after he drove his vehicle against traffice on I-20 Tuesday night, crashing into another vehicle around the 89 mile mark between Almon and Salem roads.

Simpson reportedly made a U-turn on the highway and began driving West on I-20 East. Two others are in critical condition following the crash. 

The incident is under investigation by the Newton County Sheriff's office.

 
Sheriff’s Office seeks help identifying suspected arsonist
arson suspect ncso
The suspect is believed to be a young Black male who is pictured wearing a pastel t-shirt, dark pants and white shoes. - photo by Courtesy of the Newton County Sheriff's Office
Kate Verity
Published: Mar 13, 2025, 8:24 PM

NEWTON COUNTY — The Newton County Sheriff’s Office (NSCO) is seeking the community’s help in identifying and gaining information regarding an arson suspect. 

According to the NCSO, on Friday, March 7 at around 2:30 p.m., the pictured individual is believed to have deliberately started a fire at the Silos Clubhouse.

The NCSO is requesting that residents of the Ellington Community check their cameras during the Friday afternoon time frame. Videos can be emailed to alberto@newtonsheriffga.org.

If anyone has any information regarding the case, including recognizing the suspected arsonist, call Investigator Alberto at 678-625-1429.

There is no information currently available about the fire itself or any damage it may have caused. The Covington News has reached out to the NCSO and Newton County Fire Services for more information regarding the incident.