GBI assisting local sheriff’s office with ‘hazardous material’ investigation
Published 11:54 am Wednesday, January 21, 2026
UPDATE 01/21 11:41 a.m. – The Dalton Daily Citizen has reached out to local law enforcement on scene at the location. No further information was currently available pending the arrival of the GBI. Law enforcement officials reiterated the incident does not pose an “immediate threat” to the public, but that nearby residents within a 300-yard radius were being evacuated as a precautionary measure. We will continue to provide more information as it becomes available.
Original news release shared by the Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office just before 10 a.m. on Wednesday:
“The Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office is on scene on Walt Maddron Road awaiting the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to assist with a hazardous material. There is no immediate threat to the public. The roadway at both intersections of Walt Maddron Road will be closed at this time. Please plan your routes accordingly.”