EVANS, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Current and former students are shocked by the firing of an award-winning Lakeside High School math teacher over a so-called threat they say no one should have taken seriously.

Authorities on Wednesday said Jerry Meitin was arrested and booked in the Columbia County Detention Center on a charge of terroristic threats. His bond was $5,100.

As an example of the outpouring of support for him, a GoFundMe campaign for his legal fees and bond had reached more than $16,000 less than 24 hours after his firing was announced.

Meitin was well-loved by students, according to those who’ve reached out to News 12.

Columbia County deputy dies in single-vehicle crash

A Columbia County sheriff’s deputy was killed in a single-vehicle crash late Wednesday night while drivin

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