News Roundup: Delta Variant Spreads in Baldwin County as Schools Require Masks

BAY MINETTE, Ala. — The Delta variant of COVID-19 is spreading in Baldwin County, prompting new precautions in local schools. Here is a roundup of recent news from Baldwin County and around Alabama.

Delta Variant and School Masks

The Delta variant has driven a rise in COVID-19 cases in Baldwin County, and at least one local resident who was not vaccinated has been airlifted to UAB in Birmingham for treatment.

The Baldwin County Public School System will require masks for students in grades 2 through 12 and for all staff. The decision drew opposition from some speakers at the Baldwin County Board of Education’s meeting.

Heat Advisory

A heat advisory was also issued for the area.

Law Enforcement

A suspect barricaded inside a car on the interstate just north of Bay Minette this week. Everyone involved surrendered.

The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit is investigating the shooting death of a suspect in Spanish Fort last week, in which about 80 rounds were fired at the suspect’s vehicle. Officials have not released further details.

Elsewhere in Alabama, the trial of Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely, who has held the office since 1983, has drawn statewide attention. Blakely is presumed innocent of the charges against him unless proven guilty.

State and Regional News

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade.

Former gubernatorial candidate Tim James has criticized Gov. Kay Ivey over her remarks about unvaccinated Alabamians.

The City of Mobile has announced plans for the old Mobile Civic Center.

Another Pleasure Island Bridge

Plans are in the works for another bridge onto Pleasure Island. No cost has been announced. Officials have not addressed previously discussed provisions in the Foley Beach Express contract that prohibit construction of a competing bridge.