Around 3:00 p.m. yesterday, emergency crews responded to reports of a possible structure fire at KFC located across from Rural King.
Initial reports indicated smoke coming from what appeared to be heater or vent areas of the building. Multiple Dothan Fire units were dispatched to the scene as a precaution.
At this time, injuries are unknown, and officials have not released the cause of the incident. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The Lee County District Attorney’s Office has filed an appeal challenging a judge’s decision to grant a new trial for a woman previously sentenced to 18 years in prison following the death of her newborn child.
Cherith Shoemaker was convicted in 2020 of chemical endangerment of a child resulting in death. During the original investigation, Shoemaker admitted to law enforcement that she had smoked methamphetamine shortly before going into labor, according to court records.
Earlier this year, Jeffrey Tickal, a Lee County Circuit Judge, vacated Shoemaker’s conviction and ordered a new trial. According to the Associated Press, Judge Tickal ruled that Shoemaker’s attorneys presented credible new evidence suggesting that an infection — not drug exposure — may have caused the stillbirth.
In a statement posted on social media, the Lee County District Attorney’s Office outlined evidence presented during the original trial that led to Shoemaker’s conviction. Prosecutors said Shoemaker told investigators she had smoked methamphetamine shortly before labor. Medical testimony at trial also indicated that approximately 500 nanograms of methamphetamine and 140 nanograms of amphetamine were found in the baby’s system.
The state medical examiner confirmed methamphetamine was present in the fetus’ bloodstream but ultimately listed the cause of death as undetermined.
Prosecutors further stated that jurors heard evidence showing Shoemaker gave birth in a bathtub, wrapped the baby in a towel, placed the infant in a corner of the room, and cleaned the scene. Authorities said Shoemaker did not seek medical assistance but instead contacted friends to inform them she had delivered the baby.
Shoemaker’s conviction and 18-year sentence were previously upheld by both the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals and the Alabama Supreme Court.
The appeal by the district attorney’s office seeks to overturn the order granting a new trial. The case remains pending.
🏛️ The City of Dothan is opening its PY 2026 Competitive Funding Process, which provides grant money to non-profit organizations that run social service programs benefiting Dothan residents.
Last year, the city awarded over $492,000 to more than 19 local agencies and programs.
Congratulations to Firefighter Michael Noble on successfully passing his Advanced EMT.
This accomplishment reflects the dedication, discipline, and commitment you bring to your training and service. You continue to uphold the highest standards of our profession, and we’re proud to serve alongside you. Thank you for all you do, and congratulations on this well-earned achievement.
The Dothan Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual pictured above.
Authorities say the person was captured on surveillance footage in connection with an ongoing investigation. Anyone who recognizes the individual or has information that could help identify them is asked to contact the Dothan Police Department.
A Wiregrass-based convenience store chain is expanding into Dale County, with support from Gov. Kay Ivey and state economic development officials.
Gov. Ivey announced Monday that the City of Daleville has been awarded a $120,000 Community Development Block Grant, which will be used to prepare land for a new Robert’s Grocery location near U.S. Highway 84 and Alabama Highway 85. The City of Daleville will contribute an additional $53,000 in local matching funds toward the project.
“This grant will pave the way for an Alabama-born business to grow and prosper while providing additional jobs and commerce for the city of Daleville,” Gov. Ivey said.
Robert’s Grocery currently operates locations in Wicksburg and Taylor, employing approximately 42 people. The new Daleville store is expected to create 15 additional jobs and represents a $5.7 million investment by the company.
Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Director Kenneth Boswell said the project will improve access to groceries while generating new revenue for the city.
ADECA will administer the grant using funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
