Madison County Community News network

On July 9, 2026, at approximately 9:15 a.m., officers with the Anderson Police Department responded to a report of a possible child battery at a business in the 1800 block of North Scatterfield Road.

Preliminary information indicates that an adult male approached a shopping cart occupied by a young child and allegedly poked the child with an unknown object before leaving the area. The child suffered a minor puncture wound and was evaluated by medical personnel following the incident.

Officers responded to the scene, interviewed witnesses, and began investigating the incident. Witnesses identified the suspect's vehicle as it left the area, and a short time later, deputies with the Madison County Sheriff's Department located it near Broadway Street and School Street. The suspect was identified as William Rothel, 40, of Anderson. He was taken into custody without incident and later turned over to detectives with the Anderson Police Department Criminal Investigations Division. Rothel was subsequently emanded to the Madison County Jail.

The investigation remains ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

7/4/26 7:20 pm radar view

If you are heading out to the parade or fireworks tonight in Alexandria, here is some important information for you!

🎆 Fireworks & Traffic Update for July 3rd Firework Show🎆

Please note that the fireworks shoot-off zone will be in the same general vicinity as previous years, but has been shifted slightly, as shown by the white highlighted area on the event map.

To accommodate the updated fireworks safety zone and provide space for emergency and safety personnel staging, Central Avenue will be closed between Curve Street and the north entrance of the high school parking lot.

🚗 High School Parking Access
Anyone wishing to park in the high school lot will need to enter from 11th Street onto Central Avenue and use the south entrance near the football field.

We appreciate your cooperation as we work to provide a safe and enjoyable event for everyone. Please review the event map before arriving and follow all posted signage and directions from event staff.

Food trucks will be up and running once parade ends!

🎇 We look forward to celebrating with you!