🌱 CPD Arrest Woman For Hit & Run + Local Morgue 'Antiquated'

Hello, friends! I'm back with your new copy of the Columbus Patch newsletter. Follow along for everything you need to know about what's happening in town these days.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Sunny and pleasant. High: 71 Low: 51.
• Friday: Showers and a heavier t-storm. High: 71 Low: 43.

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Here are the top stories today in Columbus:

1. On Mar. 15, Columbus Police arrested Ashley Lewis in connection to the fatal hit-and-run on Mar. 9 that killed 34-year-old Robert Carter near Macon Road and I-185. Authorities believe Carter’s death was an intentional act and charged Lewis with aggravated assault and murder. Lewis’ preliminary hearing will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Mar. 17 in Recorder’s Court. (WRBL)
2. The morgue and its equipment on Beaver Run Road in Columbus is "antiquated," according to Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan. Bryan said the morgue is always at capacity because there are not enough coolers for the bodies and the van used to transport bodies is constantly breaking down. When the van does not work, he has to rent a U-Haul to transport bodies to Atlanta due to overcrowding. The morgue is also responsible for all the bodies from Talbot, Stewart and Chattahoochee counties. Bryan will go to the budget committee on Mar. 21 to request a new transport van and two new stretchers. He also said remodeling and expanding the morgue would probably cost less than $5,000. (Ledger-Enquirer)
3. Charity Lawson, a 26-year-old child and family therapist from Columbus, will star in the new season of "The Bachelorette!" Lawson made it to the final four women on the current season of "The Bachelor" where she became a fan favorite. Now, instead of vying for bachelor Zach Shallcross' love, 30 men will compete for Lawson's love. The 20th season of the show will premiere on Channel 2. (WSB-TV)

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Today and tomorrow in Columbus:

Thursday, March 16

• Crown & Comedy At The Loft (7:30 PM)

Friday, March 17

• St. Patrick's Irish Dinner At Hudson's (6:00 PM)
• Guys and Dolls At Springer Opera House (7:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) will host the Mayor’s Masked Ball on Mar. 25 at 6:30 p.m. at the Columbus Trade Center. The fundraiser will help UNCF continue to help students achieve their dreams through college scholarships. (WTVM)
• The local housing scene is never boring, and there are a variety of homes to browse these days! Check out the latest homes for sale in the Columbus area, including a beautiful and unique three-bedroom on 3rd Avenue for $225,000! (Columbus Patch)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• Homebuyer Blueprint Live Webinar (March 16)
• Add your event

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Thursday off right. I'll see you around!

— Rose Mendez

About me: Rose Mendez is a freelance writer. She is studying English Literature at Hunter College. She loves reading, walking around the city, and coffee!