URGENT UPDATE: Georgia drivers are experiencing relief at the pump as gas prices continue their downward trend. As of January 5, 2026, the statewide average for regular gasoline has dropped to $2.65 per gallon, a decline of 3 cents from last week and 25 cents from a year ago. This development is critical for consumers amid ongoing global uncertainties that could still impact prices.
In Whitfield County, prices are even lower, averaging $2.58 per gallon. Nationally, gas prices stand at $2.81 per gallon, with analysts predicting no major short-term shifts. The price of U.S. crude oil remained stable, closing at $57.32 per barrel on Friday, indicating a sufficient global supply despite volatility abroad.
In a separate significant development, Synovus Financial Corp. and Pinnacle Financial Partners have finalized their merger, forming a larger regional banking entity now operating under the Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc. name. Announced in July 2025 and approved by shareholders last fall, the merger became effective on January 1, 2026, with the bank merger wrapping up on January 2. The newly combined firm boasts approximately $117 billion in assets and over 400 locations across nine states. Customers at the local Synovus branch in Dalton will continue to receive service as the integration unfolds.
In stark contrast to these economic updates, the Georgia Department of Public Safety reported a tragic toll during the New Year’s holiday travel period, with seven fatalities statewide. Georgia State Patrol troopers recorded 368 DUI arrests, 482 distracted driving citations, and 645 seatbelt violations. Troopers investigated a total of 333 crashes, leading to 156 injuries and three fatalities in their cases alone. The remaining four fatalities were confirmed by other law enforcement agencies, marking a slight decrease from last year’s nine fatalities during the same period.
The holiday period is traditionally one of the busiest for traffic enforcement, with heightened patrols focused on impaired driving and seatbelt compliance. Fortunately, none of the fatalities occurred in Whitfield County, according to the Georgia Department of Public Safety.
As these events unfold, drivers should remain vigilant regarding road safety during travel seasons while also benefiting from decreasing fuel prices. Stay tuned for more updates on these developing stories as authorities continue to monitor the situation.