Local News
There are now harsher penalties for people under the age of 18 who are caught distracted driving. A teenage driver caught not paying attention to the road more than once will receive seven points on their driving record — enough to potentially have their license suspended for six to 12 months. The legislation raising the penalty from a $50 fine was named after Middle Tennessee business owner Eddie Conrad. In July 2020, Eddie Conrad, his wife Joslyn, and their grandchildren were driving to lunch when they got hit by a distracted driver from behind. Eddie was killed in the crash.
Two people were killed in a crash in Gallatin on Highway 386 inbound near mile marker 13 on New Year’s Eve. Police say two vehicles – a gray Chevrolet Equinox and a black Kia Soul were involved in the crash. The drivers of both vehicles died in the crash and were the only occupants. They have been identified as Samantha Gant and Illyria Edwards. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
A man in Huntland allegedly drove into a single-story house New Year’s morning, knocking bricks out of it during the collision. A Franklin County Sheriff’s Office deputy arrested Dwight McKendrick as their prime suspect. He’s in jail for DUI. His court date is set for April.
Fireworks thrown away in a trashcan are the reason for a garage and attic fire in Spring Hill. Fire officials said an electrical line against the home also created a challenge for firefighters, but they were helped by Middle Tennessee Electric. Crews confined the fire to the garage and attic areas.
Things to set your sights on in 2024: An Australian man said it took six months of training to break an unusual world record: Nicholas Manning of Brisbane put on 10 pairs of underpants in 13.03 seconds. He said he always wanted to break a Guinness World Record, and he eventually settled on attempting the underpants-donning title.