ReportWire

Tag: Justin Pryor

  • Funeral to be held Monday for WakeMed officer killed in line of duty

    [ad_1]

    Funeral services for WakeMed Officer Roger Smith will be held Monday, Nov. 17, officials announced on Friday.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Officer Roger Smith was killed in the line of duty on Saturday, Nov. 8

    •  Smith was shot during a struggle, officials said, at WakeMed Garner Healthplex

    •  The suspect has been arrested and charged with murder, officials said

    • A memorial service will take place Monday, Nov. 17, at noon in Raleigh, N.C., followed by interment in Clayton, N.C.


    The service will start at noon at Providence Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. 

    Smith’s casket will be taken by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol’s Caisson Unit, starting at 10:45 a.m., down Glenwood Avenue from Mitchell Funeral Home to Providence Church.

    Following the service, Smith will be buried at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Clayton, N.C., officials said.

    A visitation will be held on Sunday, Nov. 16, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Mitchell Funeral Home at Raleigh Memorial Park, according to Smith’s obituary.

    Smith, 59, served as an officer with WakeMed Campus Police for 14 years.

    He was shot and killed on the morning of Saturday, Nov. 8, while on duty. Officials say the shooting happened during a struggle at the WakeMed Garner HealthPlex.

    The suspect has been arrested and charged with murder, officials said.

    Authorities have not released many details as to what led up to the shooting. The Garner Police Department and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation are investigating.

    “He will be remembered for his compassion, his dedication to others, his kind smile, his friendship and his heroism,” WakeMed Health and Hospitals said in a statement earlier this week. “Officer Smith lost his life while protecting the lives of others – and we will forever remember and honor his memory.”

    A spokeswoman for WakeMed Health and Hospitals said there will be a memorial in Smith’s honor soon.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

     

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • How Charlotte police cracked a 10-year-old cold case from New Jersey

    [ad_1]

    A person’s remains found in 2016 have finally been identified, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department announced Monday.

    Skeletal remains were found on Jan. 29, 2016 in a wooded area off of University Point Boulevard in the University City area, investigators said. At the time, officials said they were only able to determine the victim was male and there were “no obvious signs of foul play.”

    After conventional means failed to identify the victim, authorities said a sample of the remains was sent to Texas-based Othram Labs in 2022 for advanced DNA testing.

    In 2025, genetic research that stemmed from the 2022 sample allowed investigators to ultimately obtain a DNA profile from a close relative and confirm the victim’s identity, according to a release.

    The victim has been identified as Kenneth McCarthy. McCarthy, born in 1961, was a New Jersey native living in Charlotte at the time of his disappearance.

    His family said McCarthy worked in the IT field for several major corporations, the release said.

    Police have not said what led to McCarthy’s death. The investigation is, however, active and ongoing, CMPD said.

    Anyone with information is asked to call 704-432-8477 (TIPS) or Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Cleveland Co. deputy charged in deadly domestic violence shooting, officials say

    [ad_1]

    A deputy with the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office has been charged in connection to a deadly shooting late Thursday evening, authorities said.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Cleveland County Sheriff’s Deputy Mitchell Hilton is accused of fatally shooting someone during a domestic incident Thursday evening

    •  The deputy was off-duty, officials said, when the shooting happened at the Crown Ridge Apartments in Shelby, N.C.

    •  Hilton is charged with first-degree murder

    • The SBI is leading the investigation


    Deputy Mitchell Hilton, 37, was off-duty when authorities say he shot and killed someone during a domestic dispute at the Crown Ridge Apartments on South Dekalb Street in Shelby, North Carolina.

    Shelby police officers responded to the shooting call, according to a release, and immediately asked the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation for assistance.

    After learning the suspect in the case was a deputy, “the NC SBI was called to ensure a fair and impartial investigation,” officials said.

    Hilton has been charged with first-degree murder.

    “Domestic violence is a devastating issue that affects individuals and families from all walks of life, including members of the law enforcement community. It serves as a painful reminder that no one is immune to the far-reaching impact of these tragedies,” the sheriff’s office said in a release. “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the victim during this incredibly difficult time.”

     

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • ‘This is No. 1 priority for us’: Authorities continue manhunt in Craven County

    [ad_1]

    The State Bureau of Investigation, N.C. State Highway Patrol and the U.S. Coast Guard have deployed air units to assist in the search for a Craven County man accused of killing his grandmother and stabbing a deputy, Craven County Sheriff Chip Hughes said Tuesday.

    What You Need To Know

    • The search continues for Dominic Connelly, 24, who is accused of multiple crimes, including arson, murder and stabbing a Craven County deputy

    • The deputy was stabbed inside a Bojangles in Vanceboro on the night of Wednesday, Oct. 29

    • Connelly’s grandmother was found dead inside a burning home on Oct. 25

    • He is considered armed and dangerous, officials said, and should not be approached. Anyone who sees him should immediately call 911


    Craven County Crime Stoppers and the U.S. Marshals have also issued a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Dominic Connelly.

    On Nov. 4, authorities said Connelly was seen on a home surveillance camera in the area of N.C. 43 Highway and Mile Road in Vanceboro, North Carolina.


    Hughes said that in prior sightings, Connelly had typically been seen wearing dark-colored clothing and seemed unprepared for the elements. However, in the Nov. 4 footage, Hughes said Connelly appears to have gotten a pair of desert sand colored coveralls.

    “We do have reason to believe there might be people out there assisting him in some way, shape or form. Whether it’s money, food, water, clothing… he does have family in the area,” the sheriff said.

    Authorities are continuing to ask the public to report any sightings of Connelly. He is considered armed and dangerous, officials say, and should not be approached.

    Anyone who sees Connelly should call 911 immediately.


     

    On Oct. 29, a deputy encountered Connelly in the bathroom of a Bojangles at the corner of Dawson Lane and Highway 43 in Vanceboro, North Carolina, according to a release. Connelly stabbed the deputy with a knife, officials said, before running off toward the Bailey Lane Apartments behind the Bojangles.

    The sheriff’s office said they were initially looking for Connelly in connection to the death of his grandmother, Patricia Lopedote, 72, on Oct. 25.

    Lopedote’s body was found inside a burning home on N.C. 101 Highway in Havelock, North Carolina, investigators said.

    Authorities said Connelly set the fire and took off in Lopedote’s vehicle, which was found unoccupied in a New Bern, N.C., parking lot on Pine Tree Drive on Oct. 28.

     

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor, Caroline King

    Source link

  • Election Day: A quick voting guide for N.C. municipal elections

    [ad_1]

    Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. Polls open at 6:30 a.m. and will remain open until 7:30 p.m.

    What You Need To Know

    • The General Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4

    • There are more than 1,000 seats up for election across the state 

    • In addition to voting for elected officials, some will get to vote directly on local legislation through referendums 

    • Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.




    There are more than 1,000 seats up for election and several referendums to be voted on.

    The map of where municipal elections are happening can be accessed online here. 

    To participate in a municipal election, people have to live and be registered to vote there. People can check their registration status and view more voter details, including jurisdictions, polling place and more, by clicking here.

    Voter Requirements

    • Be a U.S. citizen

    • Be at least 18 years old by election day 

    • Not serving a felony sentence





    People will also be asked to show a photo ID when voting. The list of acceptable IDs can be found here. If someone does not have a photo ID, they can still vote by filling out an ID Exception Form.

    More information on what to expect when voting on Election Day, click here.

    Here are some elections across the state to look out for:

    Mayoral race in Greensboro

    After the primary election narrowed the field from four to two candidates, Marikay Abuzuaiter, who secured 39.89% of the primary vote will face Robbie Perkins, who received 32.49%. Abuzuaiter is the current at-large council member and Perkins previously served as Greensboro’s Mayor from 2011 to 2013, prior to the incumbent Nancy Vaughan, who did not run for reelection.

    Mayoral race in Durham

    Leonardo (Leo) Williams and Anjanée Bell were the top two candidates out of the five that ran in the primary, receiving 55.35% and 29.78% of the vote, respectively.

    Williams has been Durham’s mayor since 2023, and Bell is the daughter of William V. “Bill” Bell, who was the city’s longest serving mayor, holding the office from 2001 to 2017.

    Cary Town Council race

    This year, the at-large representative seat and seats for districts A and C are up for election. The map of the town’s districts can be viewed here.

    Carissa Kohn-Johnson is the current at-large representative and will face Marjorie K. Eastman, who is challenging her for the seat.

    Jennifer Robinson, who has served as the representative for District A since 1999, is challenged by Brittany Richards.

    Jack Smith, the current representative for District C, opted not to run for reelection, leaving Bella Huang and Renee Miller in competition for the seat.

    A North Carolina voter fills out her ballot. (Associated Press)

    Referendums:

    Voters in some municipalities will get the chance to vote on legislation directly. The full list of referendums that will be on this year’s ballots can be viewed here.

    Mecklenburg County, which includes Charlotte, proposed a new sales tax that would add one cent to every dollar of local sales. The proceeds from this new tax would go toward paying for public transportation. Eligible voters will be able to mark if they are for or against this tax on their ballots.

    Nearby in Union County, residents of Stallings and Indian Trail will get to vote on a new room occupancy tax of up to 5% which if approved, would apply to all guests staying at hotels and other short-term rentals in the towns.   

    The counties of Cleveland, Columbus and Richmond are considering allowing mixed drinks to be sold in hotels, restaurants, private clubs, community theaters, and convention centers and allowing malt beverages and unfortified wine to be sold in qualifying locations. It will be up to voters to decide whether or not to allow these sales.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Search continues for murder suspect accused of stabbing Craven County deputy

    [ad_1]

    A helicopter and drones have joined the ongoing search for a murder suspect accused of stabbing a Craven County Sheriff’s deputy late Wednesday night.  

    What You Need To Know

    • The search continues for Dominic Connelly, 24, who is accused of multiple crimes, including arson, murder and stabbing a Craven County deputy

    • The deputy was stabbed inside a Bojangles in Vanceboro late Wednesday night

    • Connelly’s grandmother was found dead inside a burning home on Oct. 25

    • He is considered armed and dangerous, officials said, and should not be approached. Anyone who sees him should immediately call 911


    Dominic Connelly, 24, is wanted on charges of murder, first-degree arson, vehicle theft, first-degree attempted murder, felony assault on law enforcement, causing serious injury and resisting a public officer.

    “We will not stop,” Craven County Sheriff Corporal Kelly Cox said Thursday in a recorded statement addressed to Connelly. “We are asking you to end this peacefully now for your own safety and for the safety of the public and our officers.”


    He urged Connelly to turn himself in.

    “We are asking you to end this peacefully now for your own safety and for the safety of the public and our officers,” he said. “Do not make this situation worse.”

    Cox also called on Craven County residents to be on their guard.

    Connelly is considered as armed and dangerous and should not be approached if seen, he said.

    Connelly is described as a white male, 5 feet 5 inches tall, 135 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes. Deputies said he was last seen wearing dark clothing and running toward the Bailey Lane Apartments. 

    Craven County Schools closed Vanceboro Farm Life Elementary, West Craven Middle and West Craven High School for all students and staff on Thursday and announced that Friday would be a remote, asynchronous learning day.


    On Oct. 29, a deputy encountered Connelly in the bathroom of a Bojangles at the corner of Dawson Lane and Highway 43 in Vanceboro, North Carolina, according to a release. Connelly stabbed the deputy with a knife, officials said, before running off toward the Bailey Lane Apartments behind the Bojangles.

    The sheriff’s office said they were initially looking for Connelly in connection to the death of his grandmother, Patricia Lopedote, 72, on Oct. 25.

    Lopedote’s body was found inside a burning home on N.C. 101 Highway in Havelock, North Carolina, investigators said.

    Authorities said Connelly set the fire and took off in Lopedote’s vehicle, which was found unoccupied in a New Bern, N.C., parking lot on Pine Tree Drive on Oct. 28.

    Anyone with information on Connelly’s whereabouts is asked to call Craven County Sheriff’s Office at 252-636-6620, Craven County Communications at 252-633-2357, or submit an anonymous tip to the Craven County Crime Stoppers app at p3tips.com/986. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for information leading to Connelly’s arrest.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor, Caroline King

    Source link

  • 4 sexual assaults reported on ECU campus in under a month, crime log shows

    [ad_1]

    Crime reports at East Carolina University show four reported incidents of second degree forcible rape on campus in under a month. The ECU Police Department is investigating.

    What You Need To Know

    •  East Carolina University police are investigating four reported sexual assaults on campus in under a month

    • The crimes occurred on Oct. 3, 5, 8 and 14, according to the department log

    •  Police logs show each case remains an open investigation


    The crimes occurred on Oct. 3, 5, 8 and 14, according to the department’s crime log.

    The victims and suspects knew each other in the crimes that happened on Oct. 3 and 5, police said. No information has been released about the Oct. 8 and 14 crimes.

    “To be clear, sexual assault under any circumstance is unacceptable and is never the fault of the victim,” ECU police wrote in a statement posted to Facebook earlier this month when the first two cases were reported.

    “Reports of this nature commonly involve individuals known to each other. We want to emphasize the importance of clear, ongoing and enthusiastic consent in all intimate interactions. Consent can be revoked at any time, for any reason and that decision must be respected,” police said.

    The investigation into each case remains open, according to the department’s crime log.

    Police have issued the following reminders to help keep students safe:

    • Consent: permission or agreement to do something
    • Bystander intervention: stepping in to stop or prevent harm without putting yourself in harm’s way, and/or notifying the appropriate authorities
    • Healthy relationship: characterized by mutual respect, trust, open communication and shared power with voluntary consent for all intimate activity

    Anyone wishing to report a crime can do so by calling the ECU Police Department at 252-328-6787 or 911 in the event of an emergency.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Salibury chief says bystander likely saved officer’s life during assault

    [ad_1]

    A bystander likely saved an officer’s life during a knife-wielding assault at a Cookout Sunday evening, the Salisbury Police Department said.

    What You Need To Know

    • Salisbury Police Chief Patrick Smith is praising a bystander’s courageous actions that he says likely saved an officer’s life during an assault Sunday evening

    • The officer and bystander were injured by a knife-wielding suspect at a Cookout on East Innes Street, police said

    • The suspect faces multiple charges


    Officers responded to the restaurant on East Innes Street around 8:15 p.m. for a disturbance call.

    When officers arrived, police said they found the suspect, identified as Jamie Hunt, 44, armed with a knife.

    “A struggle ensued,” according to a release. That’s when Hunt began swinging the knife, injuring one officer.

    “During the altercation, a bystander intervened to assist the officers and sustained several lacerations to his left hand while preventing the officer from suffering further stab wounds,” the department said. “His actions likely saved the officer’s life.”

    An officer used a Taser to subdue Hunt, who was then taken into custody.

    Everyone involved was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The officer and bystander were treated and released.

    The suspect is in custody but is expected to remain at the hospital for several days, police said.

    Once released, Hunt faces several charges that include two felony counts of assault on a government official with a dangerous weapon, one felony count of assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of resisting, obstructing and delaying a public officer.

    “I am thankful for the citizen who stepped in to help. His act of bravery likely saved an officer’s life,” Salisbury Police Chief Patrick Smith said in a release. “We are relieved that both our officer and this Good Samaritan are recovering.”

    The investigation is ongoing.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Second victim dies after Thursday’s Charlotte home invasion, kidnapping

    [ad_1]

    A second person has died, police say, after a home invasion and kidnapping Thursday afternoon in north Charlotte.

    Both victims’ identities were made public over the weekend.

    What You Need To Know

    • Two people were found shot at the intersection of Hoskins Road and Black Avenue around 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23

    • One victim, Justin Carlton, died shortly after being taken to the hospital. Police said the second victim, Shabazz Grant, died Sunday

    • The suspect in the shooting and a connected kidnapping, according to CMPD, died in a shootout with police

    Justin Carlton, 38, and Shabazz Grant, 34, were found shot around 4 p.m. at the intersection of Hoskins Road and Black Avenue on Oct. 23, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.

    Both victims were taken to the hospital, but Carlton died from injuries a short time later.

    Grant died from his injuries on Sunday, police said in a release.

    The shooting, according to police, was connected to a kidnapping reported in the same area.

    Officials said Joseph Andrade, 28, the suspect in the shooting, forced his way into a home, kidnapped a woman and drove away with her.

    Police began chasing Andrade’s vehicle after seeing him driving with the woman in the passenger seat. During the chase, police said Andrade started shooting at police before crashing at the intersection of Freedom and Morehead.

    Andrade then jumped out of the car, police said, and started a foot chase with officers.

    “He approached additional officers on Morehead Street where he pointed a firearm at at least one of the officers and the officers then returned fire,” CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings said in a video statement posted to X Thursday evening.

    Andrade died at the scene, and police said a gun was recovered.

    None of the officers were injured, Jennings said. The woman was also found uninjured near the area of the crash.

    The State Bureau of Investigation is investigating the shooting, which is standard practice in a police shooting.

    CMPD will handle the investigation of the assault with a deadly weapon, the homicide and the kidnapping, Jennings said.

    “We’re still piecing a lot of different things together, so I can’t really say what the motive was for the home invasion, what the motive was for the shooting in the homicide and the assault with a deadly weapon at this point,” Jennings said Thursday evening. “So we’re going to try to work through that and piece it together,”

    “Lives were lost, but we have a lot of lives that were saved because of officers’ response time,” he said. 

     

    [ad_2]

    Jordan Kudisch, Charles Duncan, Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • 4 killed in 24 hours: Charlotte-Mecklenburg police investigating

    [ad_1]

    Four people were killed in separate homicides across Charlotte over the weekend, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said.

    The killings all took place within 24 hours Saturday into Sunday.

    What You Need To Know

    • CMPD is investigating four separate homicides that took place within 24 hours over the weekend

    • The incidents happened on Wembley Drive, North Graham Street, Park Fairfax Drive and Wilkinson Boulevard

    • Out of the four incidents, police have identified two of the victims

    • One suspect has been charged in connection to one of the killings, police said


    The first incident happened at about 2 a.m. Saturday in the 1300 block of Wembley Drive. Police said the victim, identified as 50-year-old Ernesto Toledo, was found dead from “some sort of blunt force trauma” that happened during an altercation.

    No additional details were released.

    Around 4:45 p.m. Saturday, a man was found with multiple gunshot wounds, police said, in the 5600 block of North Graham Street. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

    His name has not yet been released.

    About 15 minutes later, CMPD responded to a man being shot and killed in the 100 block of Park Fairfax Drive. He has not yet been identified.

    On Sunday, police then responded to a shots fired call in a parking lot of Coyote Joe’s on the 4600 block of Wilkinson Boulevard around 1:25 a.m. Officers said they found a man, later identified as 41-year-old Jason Neal, dead from gunshot wounds when they arrived.

    Of the four killings, detectives have only arrested one suspect.

    Andre Walker, 44, has been arrested in connection to the Sunday killing of Neal. Walker has been charged with murder, police said.

    Police have not released any information on possible suspects in the other three cases. Anyone with information on any of these incidents is asked to call 704-432-8477 (TIPS) to speak with a Homicide Unit detective or Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

    The outbreak of violence comes as many residents are voicing concerns about safety across the city.

    After the August killing of Iryna Zarutska on a city light rail, groups and families of victims killed by violence have called upon city and state leaders to address court systems they say have failed to protect the public and keep defendants in jail while awaiting trials, as well as staffing shortages within local police departments.

     

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Durham is alive with ‘The Sound of Music’

    [ad_1]

    “The Sound of Music” has been a favorite for audiences around the world, both on screen and on stage, for more than 60 years. Now, a piece of Broadway history has made its way to Durham.

    The Broadway musical that first debuted in 1959 and was later made into the iconic film starring Julie Andrews in 1965 is currently on tour and will be wrapping up its stop at the Durham Performing Arts Center this weekend.

    Two of the shows stars, Cayleigh Capaldi, who plays Maria Rainer, and Kevin Earley, who plays Captain Georg Von Trapp, stop by to share behind-the-scenes insights from the show and talk about why it has continued to captivate audiences for more than six decades. Check out the video for Spectrum News 1’s conversation with Capaldi and Earley.

    The show will also be making stops in Charlotte and Greensboro in the coming months. For information on the show’s schedule and tickets, click here.

    Kevin Earley (Captain Georg von Trapp) and Cayleigh Capaldi (Maria Rainer) in “The Sound of Music.” Photo by Jeremy Daniel.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • $1 million bond for longtime N.C. legislator charged with child sex crimes

    [ad_1]

    A longtime state legislator from Guilford County facing multiple charges related to indecent liberties with a minor has allegedly attempted to contact and locate the victim using his political status, according to court documents.

    A judge set a $1 million bond for Rep. Cecil Brockman Friday.  

    What You Need To Know

    • Court records show Rep. Cecil Brockman, a six-term Democratic lawmaker from Guilford County, was arrested on charges of statutory sexual offense and taking indecent liberties with a child

    • Court documents say he attempted to contact and locate the victim 

    • A judge set a $1 million bond for Rep. Cecil Brockman Friday

    • The alleged crimes involved a 15-year-old


    Brockman, a Democrat representing part of Guilford County, has served six terms in the North Carolina House. He is charged with two counts each of taking indecent liberties with a child and statutory rape, the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office said.

    He was jailed without bond.

    A magistrate’s order says Brockman is accused of engaging in a sexual act with a 15-year-old twice and is twice alleged to have committed “a lewd and lascivious act” upon the juvenile. The alleged victim in each felony count was identified by the same initials.

    Court documents say he made attempts to locate the juvenile in the hospital and tried to use his state legislator title to get access to information about the victim’s whereabouts.

    After Brockman’s arrest was announced on Wednesday, several other state legislators, including North Carolina Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton who was speaking on behalf of the state’s Democratic Party, called for his resignation.


     

    State Republicans leaders also have called for Brockman to immediately step down.

    “If true, there is no place in public service now or in the future for someone accused of these heinous crimes,” the N.C. GOP stated in a tweet. 

    The leader of the state House, Republican Rep. Destin Hall, urged Brockman to resign so the charges would not be a distraction for his chamber. 


     

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor, Caroline King, Associated Press

    Source link

  • N.C. legislator arrested on child sex charges, officials say

    [ad_1]

    Leaders on both sides of the aisle are calling on a state legislator from Guilford County to step down after he was arrested on multiple charges related to indecent liberties with a minor.

    Rep. Cecil Brockman, Democrat, is charged with two counts each of taking indecent liberties with a child and statutory rape, the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office said.

    After news of his arrest, North Carolina Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton said in a statement on X, “The North Carolina Democratic Party calls on Representative Brockman to resign effective immediately. The profound seriousness of these criminal charges makes it impossible to represent his community.”

    The N.C. House Speaker Destin Hall, Republican, also joined the calls for Brockman’s resignation. “The charges against Rep. Brockman are shocking and extremely serious. Given the evidence that’s publicly known, he should resign immediately so these charges do not distract from the work of the North Carolina House,” he said in a statement.

    Brockman has served six terms in the North Carolina House, according to the N.C. General Assembly’s website.

    Other leaders in North Carolina also weighed in on Brockman’s arrest.

    “The allegations against Rep. Brockman are serious and, if true, would disqualify him from public office,” House Democratic Leader Robert Reives said in a statement Thursday morning. “This is a developing situation and it is important to let the legal process unfold.”

    “These charges are extremely serious and deeply troubling. While the legal process has yet to play out, it’s clear he cannot effectively serve his constituents and should resign immediately,” Gov. Josh Stein said.

    The N.C. GOP also released a statement saying, “These allegations are abhorrent. If true, there is no place in public service now or in the future for someone accused of these heinous crimes.”

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Community honors those killed, injured after Southport restaurant shooting

    [ad_1]

    SOUTHPORT, N.C. — A community on North Carolina’s coast is mourning and seeking answers after a shooting took the lives of three people over the weekend and injured five others.

    What You Need To Know

    • The shooting happened Saturday night at the American Fish Company

    • Authorities said three people were killed, and five others were injured. Their names have not yet been released

    • The suspect, Nigel Edge, was arrested shortly after the shooting and is facing multiple charges

    • Officials say Edge is a former combat veteran who was injured in the line of duty and is believed to suffer from PTSD


    Flowers, cards and more placed outside the American Fish Company Monday morning in honor of those killed and wounded by a gunman Saturday night. (Spectrum News 1/Patrick Thomas)

    The community has been placing flowers, signs and letters outside of the American Fish Company on Yacht Basin Drive in Southport, North Carolina, since the shooting Saturday night.

    Members of the tight-knit coastal community say this type of violence is not normal for the area. They describe the town as quiet, with little to no violence, and say this type of thing is almost unbelievable.

    “In the face of such darkness, we will not let hate or despair win. We will come together to support one another. We will not let this define Southport,” the city’s police chief, Todd Coring, said in a statement.

    The community held a vigil Sunday night. Whitney Johnson was in attendance and said she was in the restaurant roughly 30 minutes before the shooting happened.

    “We’re so thankful that we got out OK, but just devastated for the people that were injured and their families and people that were killed. It’s just, you know, a senseless act and just terrible and heartbreaking for such a small coastal town,” Johnson said.


     

    Authorities said the shooting was a “highly premeditated” attack carried out by 40-year-old Nigel Edge, of Oak Island. Edge piloted a small boat close to shore, which was lined with bars and restaurants, investigators said, and fired into a crowd at the American Fish Company.

    Coring said in a press conference Sunday that the location was “targeted,” but did not elaborate.

    After the shooting, Edge sped away in his boat, officials said, but was spotted by a U.S. Coast Guard crew trying to pull his boat from the water at an Oak Island public ramp and taken into custody.

    Edge is charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon, officials said. Coring said additional charges could be added.

    The weapon used was an assault rifle, although Coring didn’t specify what kind.

    “We understand this suspect identifies as a combat veteran. He self-identifies. Injured in the line of duty is what he’s saying, he suffers from PTSD,” Coring said, referring to post-traumatic stress disorder.


     

    Edge is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Monday, District Attorney Jon David said. He is being held without bond.

    Among the five people hospitalized with injuries, at least one “is now clinging for their life,” David said. Some of the victims were vacationers from out of town.

    Oak Island Police Chief Charlie Morris said the suspect was known to police as someone “who frequently hung out on our pier,” and that he had filed lawsuits against the town and police department over the last few years. He did not elaborate.

    The district attorney said Edge had had “minor contacts” with police in the past “but nothing significant in his past which would give us any indication that he was capable of such horror.”

    It was not immediately known whether Edge has an attorney to speak on his behalf. No attorney was listed on court documents. A call to Legal Aid services in Brunswick County went unanswered Sunday.

    Investigators from multiple agencies — including the State Bureau of Investigation and the Coast Guard — remained on the water and at the scene Sunday collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.

    Officials did not immediately release the names of the victims.

    [ad_2]

    Jordan Kudisch, Justin Pryor, Associated Press

    Source link

  • Early voting begins for local primaries in many N.C. cities

    [ad_1]

    Early voting has started in several counties across North Carolina where municipal elections are scheduled October. The biggest elections this round are in Durham, Greensboro and Fayetteville.

    What You Need To Know

    •  In-person voting for the October 2025 municipal elections in North Carolina is underway

    •  Voting begins Sept. 18 and runs through Oct. 4 at 3 p.m.

    •  The October municipal elections will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 7


    Early voting runs from Thursday, Sept. 18, through Saturday, Oct. 4, at 3 p.m. The October 2025 municipal elections will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 7.

    Early voting has begun in the following counties:

    • Burke
    • Camden
    • Catawba
    • Craven
    • Cumberland
    • Durham
    • Edgecombe
    • Franklin
    • Guilford
    • Harnett
    • Nash
    • Orange
    • Pasquotank
    • Person
    • Randolph
    • Richmond
    • Vance
    • Wake

    To see a complete list of early voting sites in those counties, click here.

    You can use the following map from the North Carolina State Board of Elections to learn more about the municipal elections in your area. 

    Early voting for municipal elections taking place in November will begin on Thursday, Oct. 16, and will run through Saturday, Nov. 1.

    November municipal elections will be held Tuesday, Nov. 4.

    For more information on early voting, voting locations, voter ID requirements, registration and more, click here.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Elon and Queens universities announce merger

    [ad_1]

    Elon University and Queens University Charlotte will be merging, according to an announcement made by the universities Tuesday morning.

    “Elon University, with Queens University of Charlotte, is embarking on a strategic merger – combining complementary strengths, shared values and a deep commitment to Charlotte,” a statement on Elon University Charlotte’s website read. “Together, we’re honoring the past, strengthening the present and redefining what a great educational experience can – and should – be.”

    The Boards of Trustees for both institutions gave the merger unanimous support, officials said, and was backed by trusted civic and education leaders across the Queen City.

    Once the merger is complete, officials say Elon University will operate Queens University.

    “Queens has long been a leader in education, deeply connected to Charlotte’s civic and business community. This merger with Elon accelerates that vision, ensuring continuity while creating bold opportunities to expand our impact,” Jesse Cureton, acting president and CEO of Queens University, said in a statement.

    For more information on the merger, click here.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • 26-mile stretch on Blue Ridge Parkway reopens almost a year after Helene

    [ad_1]

    A 26-mile section of the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville to Craggy Gardens has reopened, the National Park Service announced Monday.

    The reopening marks the completion of two more landslide repair projects following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.

    After the completion of the projects at mileposts 375 and 380, officials said they were able to reopen the section of the parkway between Asheville and the Ridge Junction Overlook near NC 80 and the Mount Mitchell State Park entrance.

    The newly reopened section includes popular stops in the Craggy Gardens area, near milepost 364. Those stops include the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, Craggy Pinnacle Trail and short sections of the Mountains to Sea Trail.

    Officials said the Craggy Gardens Picnic Area and sections of the Mountains to Sea Trail from the Craggy Trail Shelter to the Snowball Mountain Trail remain closed, however.

     

    “Today’s opening also provides access to other popular, adjacent recreation areas, including Mount Mitchell State Park and lands managed by the USDA Forest Service,” the park service said.

    For more information on Mount Mitchell State Park’s reopening, click here.

    Officials said additional projects are beginning at 45 remaining locations along the parkway as part of a phased system to restore road access to areas damaged by Helene.

    Anyone traveling to the Blue Ridge Parkway should plan their trip carefully, officials said, to ensure safe travel and avoid delays. To find more information on road closures along the parkway, click here.

     

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Woman charged in fire that killed four children in Chadbourn

    [ad_1]

    A woman is facing charges related to the death of four children in a house fire in Chadbourn early this month.

    What You Need To Know

    • Reagan Powers, 28, is facing multiple charges related to a deadly house fire in Chadbourn
    • Warrants say Powers left the home and other children in the care of an 11-year-old child
    • Four children died in the fire, while two children were able to escape the fire unharmed
    • Chadbourn is a town located about one hour west of Wilmington


    Reagan Powers, 28, has been charged with four felony counts each of involuntary manslaughter and child abuse, according to court documents.

    Warrants say Powers committed “grossly negligent omission” by leaving both her residence and the children in the care of an 11 year old. “The defendant’s act and omission resulted in serious bodily injury, death, to the child,” the warrants said.

    While the 11 year old and another child were able to escape the fire unharmed, four other children perished.

    Related: ‘Unimaginable loss’: Father gives statement after four girls killed in fire

    The ages of the children killed were 2, 4, 6 and 7, according to a post on the N.C. SBI Facebook page.

    Investigators have not been able to determine the exact cause of the fire, but say there is no evidence that it was intentionally started.

    Chadbourn is located about one hour west of Wilmington.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Teens face charges in killing of Wake Forest High School coach’s wife

    [ad_1]

    Two teenagers are facing charges after a deadly shooting involving the wife of a Wake Forest High School football coach.

    What You Need To Know

    •  The wife of a Wake Forest High School football coach was killed in a shooting on Aug. 29

    •  Investigators do not believe Ericka Lucas was the intended target of the shooting

    •  A 16-year-old was arrested on Aug. 30 and 18-year-old Dexter Mills was arrested on Sept. 9 in connection to the shooting

    • They have each been charged with murder, officials said


    Dexter Mills, 18, and a 16-year-old juvenile have been arrested in connection to the deadly shooting of Ericka Lucas last month, the Wake Forest Police Department said.

    Each of them have been charged with murder, officials said.

    Investigators say they do not believe Lucas was the intended target when the shots were fired along East Nelson Avenue.

    The shooting happened around 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29.

    Lucas, the wife of Wake Forest High School Football Coach Reggie Lucas, was found with a gunshot wound and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, officials said.

    The injuries she suffered led to her death.

    “The WFPD extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Ericka Lucas. Our thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones during this difficult time,” the department said in a release.

    At the time of the shooting, police said they believed this was an isolated incident and there was no danger to the public.

    This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the Police Tip Line at 919-435-9610.

    [ad_2]

    Daniel Gray, Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Missing 7-year-old found dead in Randolph County, sheriff says

    [ad_1]

    A 7-year-old boy was found dead in a pond Tuesday, according to the Randolph County sheriff.

    The boy, who had cognitive impairments, was reported missing on Sunday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Liam King was reported missing on Sunday, Sept. 7

    • Officials say King had cognitive impairments was non-verbal 

    • His body was found in a pond near where he disappeared, the Randolph County sheriff said




    Liam King (Randolph County Sheriff’s Office)

    “This morning, at approximately 10:11 a.m., the body of 7-year-old Liam King was discovered in a pond near the area where he was initially reported missing,” Sheriff Gregory Seabolt said in a statement just after noon Tuesday. 

    “We are absolutely devastated. I wish more than anything that we had a different outcome—for Liam’s family, for our community, and for the hundreds of first responders and volunteers who poured their hearts into finding him alive,” the sheriff said. 

    King was reported missing on Sunday, Sept. 7, according to the sheriff’s office, in the area of Forest Hills Drive in Asheboro.

    Seabolt said many people volunteered to help with the search.

    He said they used all the resources they could, including helicopters, airplanes and thermal imagery. 

    “We are grateful for the outpouring of support, prayers, and willingness to help,” deputies said. 

    Related: Authorities searching for missing Asheboro 7-year-old

    [ad_2]

    Daniel Gray, Justin Pryor, Ashley Van Havere

    Source link