Pavilion Damaged At Park After Car Runs Into It

pavilion-wreckA Toccoa woman faces charges after an alleged fight at a local park leads to damage at the park.

Toccoa Police Chief Tim Jarrell said it happened on Friday just before 6:30 p.m. when an officer responded to the area of Emory Johnson Park on West Whitman Street in Toccoa.

“When he arrived, he discovered a 2016 Kia Forte with extensive damage to the front bumper area,” said Jarrell. “His investigation revealed the vehicle rolled down the embankment and struck a 4 x 4 post that was helping to support the pavilion at the lower portion of Emory Johnson Park,” said Jarrell.

Jarrell said the officer made contact with the owner and driver of the vehicle, 19-year-old Tyanna Cody of Toccoa, as well as witnesses on the scene.

According to Jarrell, witnesses said 18-year-old Unique Simmons of Toccoa approached Cody while she was sitting in her vehicle at the park.

“An argument developed,” said Jarrell. “Statements were given to our officer that Ms. Simmons pulled Ms. Cody from her vehicle while the vehicle was still running and in drive. The vehicle, without a driver, then went down the embankment and struck the pavilion.”

Jarrell said Cody was checked by Stephens County EMS but refused further treatment.

He said Simmons fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival and has not yet been located.

According to Jarrell, police have charges pending on Simmons.

Those charges include Criminal Damage to Property, Simple Battery, and Interference with Government Property.

As for the pavilion, Jarrell said it is still being inspected to determine the extent of the damage.