February 2, 2026
Sinkhole Forces Closure of Empire Church Road Near Bear Lake Road in Groveland
By Cindy Peterson
Sinkhole Forces Closure of Empire Church Road Near Bear Lake Road in Groveland
Empire Church Road has been shut down near Bear Lake Road after a sinkhole was reported early this morning, prompting an immediate response from Lake County officials.
According to reports from area residents, the sinkhole was first noticed in the early morning hours and has continued to grow. As a result, officials have closed Empire Church Road at Anderson Road and at Mascotte Empire Church Road to prevent traffic from entering the affected area. Officials are currently on scene assessing the situation and determining next steps to ensure public safety.
Drivers are being advised to use Mattioda Road and Anderson Road as alternate routes and to avoid the area entirely while crews work to evaluate the sinkhole. Residents are urged to remain cautious, follow posted detours and stay clear of the roadway as conditions continue to change.
We will continue to update as we get more information.
Photos provided by Damian A. Vila
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.
