🌱 Deputies Investigate Fatal Drive-By + Sandy Beach Water Park Closes

Hello again, neighbors. It's Thursday in Macon and I'm back in your inbox to get you caught up on the most important things happening in our community.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Couple of thunderstorms. High: 70 Low: 61.
• Friday: A shower and thunderstorm. High: 76 Low: 57.

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Here are the top three stories in Macon today:

1. Bibb County deputies are investigating the fatal drive-by shooting that led to the death of a 15-year-old boy in his Macon home over Easter weekend. Tasha Fordham, the victim's aunt, said Ozias Gore was pouring a glass of water in the kitchen when the shooting occurred on Saturday evening. Fordham said the home had been a target of drive-by shootings at least six times in the last few months. Authorities are investigating if there is a connection between the previous shootings and the recent incident. As part of the investigation, the Sheriff's Office is currently searching for a beige or tan Mercury Marquis or Crown Victoria. (WSB-TV)
2. Multiple videos of Mark Taylor, the owner and operator of Speed Edge Sports in Macon, using racist language are circulating on social media. The local coach used the N-word, encouraged his friends to go "hunting" for Black people, and pointed out a tree where they could hang a Black woman. The videos have gone viral and many are outraged. (WGXA.TV)
3. Sandy Beach Water Park in Macon is now permanently closed due to staffing issues, mechanical breakdowns, and a bacteria problem in the water. Macon-Bibb County released a statement saying the contract with the park has been terminated and "we will now have to figure out what the future of the park will be." (13WMAZ.com)

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Today and tomorrow in Macon:

Thursday, April 13

• Macon Bike Party: South Macon Slow Roll At South Bibb Recreation Center (6:00 PM)
• Tab Benoit At Capitol Theatre (8:00 PM)

Friday, April 14

• Macon Blues Festival At Macon Centreplex (8:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Bibb County deputies arrested 18-year-old Tiara Everett of Macon for making a false 911 call claiming she and others were being held hostage at a Macon McDonald's. Everett had called 911 saying that she was hiding in the bathroom at McDonald's on Ocmulgee East Boulevard and a man was holding five people, including children, at gunpoint. (wgxa.tv)
• The Macon-Bibb County Planning and Zoning committee unanimously approved the creation of the "Museum Commercial" category in the Comprehensive Land Development Resolution, which will redefine commercial museums in a historic residential zoning district. Currently, The Big House Museum in Macon must apply for a special events permit each time it holds a concert or other outdoor event on the property, which would change if the new category is created. Many residents oppose the change due to concerns about noise, traffic, parking, and the preservation of the neighborhood. (WMAZ 13)
• Looking for a new home or interested in the local housing market? Check out the latest homes for sale in the Macon area, including a unique home with a beautiful porch on English Avenue for $220,000. (Macon Patch)

You're all caught up for today. See you all soon for another update!

— 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!