September 17, 2025
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Houston County mom speaks out after 6-year-old son’s life-altering injury at school

A 6-year-old Houston County boy lost vision in one eye after a playground accident. His family is calling for better supervision and school protocols.

PERRY, Ga. — A Houston County mother is speaking out after her 6-year-old son suffered a life-changing injury during recess at Morningside Elementary.

Jasmine Jones said she received a call on April 14 around 2:30 p.m. informing her that her son, Jagger, had been hurt on the playground.

Jones explained that another student pulled back a tree branch near the playground, and when released, it flew forward and scraped Jagger’s left eye. The injury resulted in Jagger losing almost all vision in that eye.

“It’s kind of nerve-wracking. I can tell him to get something right in front of him, and he’s not seeing it. He’s looking everywhere and he’s not seeing it anymore,” Jones said.

Jones said the injury was accidental, but was upset to hear from Jagger that teachers were not watching the children during recess when it happened.

Linda Lee, Jagger’s adoptive grandmother, said she requested the school’s playground supervision protocol from the principal but never received a response.

“There were 60 children out there, and all the teachers were seated. I don’t consider that watching the children,” Lee said.

The family discussed legal action, but has not pursued it. When they reported the incident to the school district, they were met with a response citing sovereign immunity — the legal protection that often shields government entities from lawsuits.

The Houston County School District issued the following statement:

“The safety of our students is always our number one priority, and our hearts go out to this student and family. Teachers actively supervise their students during recess; however, as with any active play environment, accidents can still occur despite appropriate supervision. We remain committed to maintaining safe play areas and providing vigilant supervision to support the well-being of all students.”

The family hopes that sharing their story will raise awareness about the importance of vigilant supervision during recess to prevent similar injuries. […]

crime

Charlotte police warn of scammers impersonating officers

Scammers are claiming to be CMPD officers, threatening to arrest people if they don’t make an immediate payment to clear a warrant.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police are warning residents about an increase in scam calls from people claiming to be CMPD officers, with some using real officers’ names and spoofing department phone numbers.

The scammers typically claim victims have a warrant or legal issue and demand immediate payment or personal information, police said. The callers use high-pressure tactics to intimidate people and threaten arrest if they don’t comply.

CMPD officials emphasized that the department will never call residents to demand payment or request personal information over the phone.

“We will never request or accept bitcoin, Cash App, gift cards, wire transfers, etc… as a form of payment,” police said in the alert.

🚨Be Aware🚨 Recently there has been an uptick of scam calls claiming to be from CMPD, in some cases utilizing real officer’s names, with some even spoofing our division phone numbers.In many cases, the caller may:- Claim you have a warrant or legal issue- Demand immediate… pic.twitter.com/4ABP81j698— CMPD News (@CMPD) September 17, 2025

The department also clarified that warrants are never issued over the phone, and officers will never request or accept payment to reduce or dismiss charges.

Police advised residents who are unsure whether a call is legitimate to hang up and call the department’s non-emergency line at 311 directly.

For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts that impact you from WCNC Charlotte, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app and enable push notifications. […]

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Duke Energy power outage near Uptown could last until Thursday

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Nearly 1,000 Duke Energy customers near Uptown Charlotte could be without electricity until Thursday morning after a crash took down equipment. 
The crash happened around 7:30 a.m. along Statesville Avenue at Oaklawn Avenue, which is right outside Uptown. According to Duke Energy’s outage map, two separate outages are impacting roughly 933 customers. 
Duke’s outage map estimates the power may not be restored until around 8 a.m. Thursday. 
WCNC Charlotte has reached out to Duke Energy for more information about this incident.  […]

home

Flight from Charlotte turns around on way to Mexico City

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — An American Airlines flight on its way to Mexico City from Charlotte had to turn around after taking off Wednesday afternoon. 
American Airlines told WCNC Charlotte the plane had to return to Charlotte “due to a maintenance issue.” 
All the passengers were moved to a different aircraft, and that new aircraft is due to take off around 2 p.m. and arrive into Mexico City shortly after 4 p.m. local time., according to American Airlines’ flight tracker. […]

crime

Heavy police presence reported in Steele Creek

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Heavy police presence was reported in Charlotte’s Steele Creek neighborhood early Wednesday afternoon. 

Police activity is centered around Duval Drive near Rivergate Way. 

That’s about three miles away from where a 4-year-old boy was shot and killed earlier Wednesday morning. It’s not clear if the two scenes are connected in any way. 

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have not provided further information on the police presence at this time. WCNC Charlotte is working to learn more. […]

forecast

Coolest day of the week with a slight rain chance

A few showers expected for Tuesday into Wednesday morning.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Rain chances were minimal on Wednesday morning with most of the rain falling close to Greensboro and barely any in Rowan County. Now, the greater Charlotte area will be rain-free for most of the next seven days, except for a spotty rain chance on Saturday night.

Wednesday:

Clear and warmer with highs climbing back into the mid-80s. The coastal low is gone, and so fewer clouds and little to no rain chances. Overnight lows will only fall into the low-to-mid 60s (near normal).

Rest of the Week:

Thursday through Saturday look to be dry and the warmestHighs are back into the mid-to-upper 80s on ThursdayHighs near 90 on FridayUpper 80s on SaturdayChance of isolated storms next Sunday and Monday

Tropical update

The tropics are officially active again as of the first Tropical Depression since late August has formed in the Atlantic (Tropical Depression Number Seven). This will become Tropical Storm Gabrielle on September 17th and likely become Hurricane Gabrielle over the weekend.

Right now, this soon-to-be hurricane will aim toward Bermuda and then turn back out in the middle of the Atlantic. Bermuda will either have direct or indirect impacts over the next 8-11 days. 

A shift in the steering currents will open up a storm to form closer to the United States by days 8-14 of the forecast so an active end of September and beginning of October.

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🌩️ If you like weather, watch Brad Panovich and the WCNC Weather Impact Team on their Emmy Award-winning Weather IQ YouTube channel. 🎥

Stay connected to the WCNC Charlotte Weather Team

Contact Brad Panovich at bpanovich@wcnc.com or follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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Contact Majestic Storm at majesticstorm@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Contact Brittany Van Voorhees at brittany@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. […]

community

Happy Birthday! WWII Navy veteran celebrates turning 99 Chick-fil-A style

He served in World War II and the Korean War.

ACWORTH, Ga. — A World War II Navy veteran went to “eat more chicken” at a popular restaurant to celebrate living to nearly a century.

Richard Stroud was just 15 years old when he decided he wanted to fly. According to an article on the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs (DAV) website, Stroud enlisted in the Navy at age 17 and trained as a machine gunner before serving in World War II. Later, he attended flight school while in the Navy, according to the DAV website, and earned his wings. According to DAV, this training enabled him to serve as a pilot in the Korean War.

After leaving the Navy, Stroud spent 62 years working as an aeronautical engineer. 

Now, at 99, Stroud spends his days, mostly Tuesdays, in a less stressful environment: Chick-fil-A.

According to the restaurant, he is a member of a local seniors’ group that gathers at the restaurant every Tuesday, in a fun “tradition that has become the highlight of their week,” as well as the restaurant’s. 

Although September 16, 2025, was a particularly special day. 

“To honor his milestone birthday, Chick-fil-A Acworth hosted a joyful celebration complete with Chick-fil-A menu classics, cake, a special gift box, a Chick-fil-A plush Cow wearing a navy-inspired ensemble and the company of his closest friends.”  […]

home

Candlelight vigil to be held in Matthews to honor life and faith of Charlie Kirk

The event is open to the public.

MATTHEWS, N.C. — Community members will gather Wednesday evening in Matthews for a candlelight vigil honoring the life and faith of Charlie Kirk.

The event is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Stumptown Memorial Park on South Trade Street. Friends, family and supporters are invited to take part in what organizers describe as a peaceful evening of prayer, remembrance and reflection. Candles will be provided, though attendees may also bring their own.

The program will include scripture readings, community-led prayers and a moment of silence. Speakers will share personal reflections on Kirk’s legacy and the values he championed. Matthews Commissioner Dr. Leon Threatt will close the event with prayer and reflection.

“Charlie inspired countless Americans to live boldly in their faith and never back down from speaking the truth,” organizer Jaime Daniell, who is also a candidate for North Carolina State Senate District 42, said. “This vigil is an opportunity for our community to come together, find comfort, and honor the values he championed.”

The event is open to the public.

Download WCNC+ on your Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV or Samsung device, and stream the news that impacts you for free. […]

animals

Quit monkeying around: Monkey on the loose in Iredell County

A Capuchin monkey from Zootastic Park is loose in Iredell County.

TROUTMAN, N.C. — Quit monkeying around, a monkey is on the loose in Iredell County.

A Capuchin monkey owned by Zootastic Park in Troutman got loose, Iredell County Animal Services announced on Wednesday. Now, authorities are working with the zoo to safely recapture the animal. 

Iredell County Animal Services is urging people to avoid attempting to capture, chase, or interact with the monkey on their own — leave the monkey business to professionals.

If you see the monkey while out and about, don’t go bananas. Call Iredell County Animal Services 704-878-5335.

Monkey On The Loose!🐒 Monkey Business in Troutman!

A viewer sent us this wild video early this morning—yes, that’s a monkey making a break for it through Troutman. As of now, no word on whether the little escape artist has been apprehended.

Firewire listened into Troutman Police and Animal Control, but the radio waves were suspiciously monkey-free. Either it’s a stealth operation… or the monkey’s just too fast for dispatch.

***UPDATE***

Firewire Dan spoke with Zootastic owner Scottie Brown, who confirmed he’s aware of the loose monkey. He and others are actively searching for her. Scottie added that if anyone spots the escaped monkey, they should call him immediately at 704-309-5564.

#MonkeyLife #zoo #monkeyontheloose #Escape #BreakingNews #BREAKING #fypシ #fypreelsシ゚viralシPosted by Iredell Firewire on Wednesday, September 17, 2025

For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts that impact you from WCNC Charlotte, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app and enable push notifications.  […]

helene

EPA highlights western North Carolina recovery efforts nearly a year after Helene

LAKE LURE, N.C. — The Environmental Protection Agency will join state and local officials Wednesday at multiple locations across western North Carolina to showcase recovery work completed over the past year and highlight ongoing rebuilding efforts in the region after Hurricane Helene.
The commemoration events will take place at several sites throughout the area, with one notable gathering scheduled at Lake Lure. 
WCNC Charlotte is attending the Lake Lure event, and will have the latest updates this afternoon on WCNC+ and on air on WCNC Charlotte at 4:30 p.m.  […]

home

Charlotte Douglas International Airport unveils largest terminal expansion in history

A central highlight is the Queen Charlotte statue, a 16-foot, 3,000-pound bronze sculpture by artist Raymond Kaskey that has been part of the airport since 1990.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte Douglas International Airport marked a major milestone this week with the celebration of its Terminal Lobby Expansion (TLE), the largest passenger-facing construction project in the airport’s history. The five-year effort is set for substantial completion on Oct. 1.

The expansion added 175,000 square feet of new lobby space and renovated another 191,000 square feet, modernizing a facility that originally opened in 1982 to handle just 2.8 million annual passengers. In 2024, CLT served a record 58.8 million travelers, with 18 million using the terminal lobby for arrivals and departures.

“The Terminal Lobby Expansion is a transformational milestone for CLT,” said Airport CEO Haley Gentry. “This monumental effort represents years of planning, construction and commitment to improving the passenger experience. The result is a modern, spacious lobby that reflects the dynamic growth of our region and positions us for the future.”

Construction began in early 2020, following a December 2019 groundbreaking. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the project stayed on schedule through six phases, minimizing disruption for travelers. The TLE follows earlier projects in the Destination CLT capital investment program, including the Hourly Parking Deck and the Elevated Roadway.

The $608 million expansion brings sweeping changes for passengers, including:

Expanded ticketing, baggage claim and basement levels.A 146,000-square-foot canopy to shield passengers from weather.Two pedestrian bridges and two underground walkways connecting the terminal with parking decks.New pre-security concessions.11 public art installations commissioned with the Arts & Science Council.Four Automated Exit Lanes and 21 security lanes, including 11 automated screening lanes, up from 17 previously.Eight high-capacity baggage devices to speed up processing.

A central highlight is the Queen Charlotte statue, a 16-foot, 3,000-pound bronze sculpture by artist Raymond Kaskey that has been part of the airport since 1990. The restored statue now anchors Queens Court, a new open gathering area on the baggage claim level across from CLT’s first full-service pre-security restaurant, The Queen’s Kitchen.

The project was funded through a combination of passenger and customer facility charges, general airport revenue bonds and airport cash reserves. As a city enterprise fund, the airport does not rely on tax dollars for operations or capital projects.

Charlotte City Council approved the contract in October 2019. Construction was led by the joint venture Holder-Edison Foard-R.J.Leeper, with design by Gresham Smith.

With the TLE and last year’s opening of Concourse A – Phase II, the airport’s footprint has grown from 1.8 million square feet to 2.4 million, cementing Charlotte Douglas as one of the busiest airports in the country

Download WCNC+ on your Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV or Samsung device, and stream the news that impacts you for free. […]

community

‘Dad was the hero of the day.’ | Surveillance video captures baby delivery in a North Texas hospital parking lot

What started as a tense drive to the hospital ended in joy, community, and a story that Methodist Dallas staff — and a proud dad — will remember for years to come.

DALLAS — Thousands of babies are born at Methodist Dallas Medical Center each year, but few arrivals have drawn a crowd quite like baby Kamilah Mendoza. 

On Sept. 2, she made her grand entrance just as her father pulled up outside the hospital’s main lobby, creating a dramatic and unforgettable scene as staff and visitors rushed to welcome a new life into the world.

“Two blocks away from the hospital, she started having big contractions,” said Luis Mendoza, recalling the intense drive with his wife, Angelica Martinez. “The baby’s head started coming out, and I reached out to make sure she didn’t come out.”

By the time they reached the hospital, Luis had jumped out of the car, told the valet attendant to call for help, and delivered his daughter himself. Within minutes, nearly two dozen nurses, doctors, and even Methodist Dallas President John Phillips had gathered at the circle drive, and it was all captured on surveillance video.

“Dad was the hero of the day,” said Carrie Urista, a nurse manager who retired after 43 years at Methodist Dallas and now volunteers at the front desk. “He had already lifted the baby up and laid her on mommy’s tummy.”

Phillips, who happened to be near the entrance at the time, called the moment “like a television drama.” He added, “I’m just thankful at Methodist Dallas, we always have good people available to take care of our amazing patients.”

The Mendoza family returned to Methodist Dallas on Tuesday, Kamilah’s original due date, to express their gratitude and introduce their newest family member.

“We are very, very grateful that everything turned out well,” Angelica said. “Thanks be to God and that we now have with us our princess Kamilah.”

At home, Kamilah is already feeling the love from her two big sisters, ages 10 and 16, who are adjusting to life with a brand-new little sister. […]

Entertainment

DaBaby drops track dedicated to CATS stabbing victim

Before the actor can stab the victim in the video, DaBaby appears to stop the attacker and escorts him off the light rail train to waiting security guards.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte native DaBaby raps a new song called “Save Me” dedicated to the victim of the deadly stabbing on Charlotte’s light rail. 

The beginning of the music video, which was published around 1:30 p.m. Tuesday begins with footage from WCNC Charlotte Reporter Jesse Pierre’s news story on the surveillance footage that showed Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska, 23, being stabbed to death on the LYNX Blue Line by a stranger who attacked her without provocation. The suspect who appears in the footage was later identified as Decarlos Brown, who now faces first-degree murder charges in connection to the Aug. 22 killing.

After about 30 seconds of that news footage, DaBaby begins rapping with dramatic reenactments using actors playing the parts of Brown and Zarutska on the light rail with DaBaby sitting across the aisle from them. The full music video is posted below. 

Warning: The content and lyrics of this song may be offensive or graphic to some viewers.

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His song focuses on whether people can or cannot be saved as the refrain of “you think you can save me” echoes at times, with some of the lyrics being:

“Think you can save me like you God or somethin’.””When I stay silent in my morals, yeah, it cost me plenty.””They say they love you then they act like they ain’t never love you. You go through s*** and, yeah, you act like it ain’t never nothing.””That youngin’ hurtin’ and he need love, so you can’t tell him nothing.”

Then, DaBaby starts saying “you know, and it’s just some people, man. Unfortunately, you know, man, we can’t save ’em. You know what I’m saying? I might be one of them.” 

He goes on to say “I ain’t looking for you to save me. Be more grateful. I’m gonna put my faith in God.”

Then, the actress playing Iryna Zarutska, later identified as Natalie Jones, seems to walk home looking thankful she is alive still. The actor playing the suspect is credited as KenDarius “Too” Hargrove. 

Below the music video, DaBaby posted a link to Zarutska’s GoFundMe which has already accumulated more than $430,000 since the story of her death went viral.

Advocates have said the light rail stabbing highlights a major gap: A lack of mental health training for magistrates and judges, who often make critical decisions about whether someone should be released after an arrest. Brown was previously arrested and later released before being accused of Zarutska’s killing, underscoring why advocates believe mental health reform is necessary. DaBaby has advocated for mental health resources in memory of his late brother, who lost his life to suicide in 2020. 

CATS issued the following statement in response to the video, saying DaBaby didn’t have permission to film on their property. 

“CATS was not involved in this filming, nor did we grant permission. This filming was reported last night via the CATS See-Say Application in the CATS-Pass App at which time security responded by escorting them off the vehicle as per the video.”

DaBaby did not reach out to WCNC Charlotte for permission to use the footage in this music video. WCNC Charlotte has reached out to DaBaby’s team for further comment on this track.

For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts that impact you from WCNC Charlotte, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app and enable push notifications. […]

home

1-year-old girl missing from Randleman was found, authorities say

Sheriff’s office seeks help to find 1-year-old girl missing from Randleman, NC, believed to be with Tyler Toodle in a black Honda Civic.

RANDOLPH COUNTY, N.C. — UPDATE: Iris Everly-Marie Fargis was found in Sampson County.

Have you seen her?

A 1-year-old girl is missing from Randolph County, according to the NC Center for Missing Persons.

Iris Everly-Marie Fargis, 1, is missing from Randleman, NC. She is described to be about 2 ft. 1 in. tall and weighing about 23 lbs. She has brown hair and brown eyes.

The NC Center for Missing Persons said she was last seen wearing an orange Halloween shirt with a white ghost on the front and black tights with jackolanterns, lollipops and worms.

She is believed to be with Tyler Ray Toodle, 26. Toodle is not the child’s father, according to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.

Toodle is described to be 6 ft. and weighing about 175 lbs. He has brown hair and blue eyes. Randolph County deputies said he has acne scars and scabs on his face.

Deputies said he has the following tattoos:

“336” in blue ink on his left arm”Respect” on his right forearm”My Sister’s Protector” on his left arm”$” in red ink on right forearm

Their direction of travel is unknown, deputies said. Toodle is believed to be driving a black 2018 Honda Civic with dark-tinted windows and the NC license tag number JMS6500.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office immediately at (336) 318-6778, or call 911 immediately. […]

home

Houston County mom speaks out after 6-year-old son’s life-altering injury at school

A 6-year-old Houston County boy lost vision in one eye after a playground accident. His family is calling for better supervision and school protocols.

PERRY, Ga. — A Houston County mother is speaking out after her 6-year-old son suffered a life-changing injury during recess at Morningside Elementary.

Jasmine Jones said she received a call on April 14 around 2:30 p.m. informing her that her son, Jagger, had been hurt on the playground.

Jones explained that another student pulled back a tree branch near the playground, and when released, it flew forward and scraped Jagger’s left eye. The injury resulted in Jagger losing almost all vision in that eye.

“It’s kind of nerve-wracking. I can tell him to get something right in front of him, and he’s not seeing it. He’s looking everywhere and he’s not seeing it anymore,” Jones said.

Jones said the injury was accidental, but was upset to hear from Jagger that teachers were not watching the children during recess when it happened.

Linda Lee, Jagger’s adoptive grandmother, said she requested the school’s playground supervision protocol from the principal but never received a response.

“There were 60 children out there, and all the teachers were seated. I don’t consider that watching the children,” Lee said.

The family discussed legal action, but has not pursued it. When they reported the incident to the school district, they were met with a response citing sovereign immunity — the legal protection that often shields government entities from lawsuits.

The Houston County School District issued the following statement:

“The safety of our students is always our number one priority, and our hearts go out to this student and family. Teachers actively supervise their students during recess; however, as with any active play environment, accidents can still occur despite appropriate supervision. We remain committed to maintaining safe play areas and providing vigilant supervision to support the well-being of all students.”

The family hopes that sharing their story will raise awareness about the importance of vigilant supervision during recess to prevent similar injuries. […]

heartwarming

He was given 5 months to live, now he’s living his dream as a police officer

Given 5 months to live in 2018, brain cancer survivor DJ Daniel just became Matthews PD’s newest honorary officer.

MATTHEWS, N.C. — A young man who refused to let a terminal brain cancer diagnosis crush his dreams of becoming a police officer has been sworn in as an honorary member of the Matthews Police Department.

DJ Daniel was officially appointed as an honorary police officer by Chief James Avens in a ceremony that highlighted both his courage and determination to live fully despite facing overwhelming odds.

Daniel was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2018 and given just five months to live. Instead of surrendering to the devastating prognosis, he embarked on a mission to join as many law enforcement agencies across the United States as possible.

“We are so proud to have someone with the courage, bravery, and inspiration that Officer Daniel possesses as a member of the Matthews Police Department,” the department said in announcing the appointment.

The swearing-in ceremony was conducted by K-9 Officer Ashley Liles, who presented Daniel with his official certificate of appointment on behalf of Chief Avens during a mass ceremony.

Daniel’s journey represents more than just the fulfillment of a childhood dream — it’s a testament to resilience in the face of a life-threatening illness that typically claims lives within months of diagnosis.

Brain cancer, particularly the aggressive forms that carry such dire prognoses, affects approximately 24,000 Americans annually, according to the American Cancer Society. The disease’s rapid progression and limited treatment options make Daniel’s survival and continued pursuit of his goals all the more remarkable.

His mission to join law enforcement agencies nationwide has created a unique legacy that extends far beyond traditional police work. Each honorary appointment represents not just recognition of his determination, but also serves as inspiration for others facing similar challenges.

The Matthews Police Department expressed gratitude for being included in Daniel’s journey.

“We thank him for allowing us to be a small part of achieving his goal,” the department stated.

For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts that impact you from WCNC Charlotte, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app and enable push notifications. […]

crime

South Rowan High School under ‘secure hold’ after reports of gun on campus

Rowan-Salisbury Schools clarified that South Rowan wasn’t placed on lockdown. All students and staff members are secured inside the building and no one is allowed to enter the school. A secured hold doesn’t disrupt instruction, according to the district. 
A family member of a student said kids were waiting outside and being picked up by parents. The incident happened on the same day as a prayer vigil for conservative activist Charlie Kirk, according to the family member. 
WCNC Charlotte asked district officials if a gun was found on campus. Rowan-Salisbury Schools hasn’t responded to that request.  […]

crime

‘Not authorized’ | Principal responds to message painted on Charlotte school’s spirit rock

The principal stated that the incident at Ardrey Kell High School is considered vandalism.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Officials at Ardrey Kell High School are investigating vandalism to the school’s spirit rock that included references to slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot at a Utah university on Wednesday.

Principal Susan Nichols notified families on Sunday that the rock in front of the school was painted over the weekend. Photos of the rock showed that the rock was painted with the message “Live Like Kirk,” along with the names “Gabby,” “Lily,” and “Logan,” the message “Freedom 1776,” and an American flag.

School officials said the vandalism was not authorized or sponsored by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and violates the district’s student conduct code. Students found responsible for the vandalism could face disciplinary action.

Kirk, a popular conservative commentator, was killed on Wednesday during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. 

Law enforcement has been contacted about the Ardrey Kell incident, according to the principal’s message to families. District officials later confirmed this is not a criminal investigation, and school officials are handling the situation. 

The school is encouraging students and families to use the district’s “Say Something” anonymous reporting app if they have information about the vandalism. Officials emphasized that using the reporting system or speaking with trusted school staff is the preferred method for communicating concerns.

“As always, the safety and well-being of our students and staff is our top priority,” Nichols said in the message.

For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts that impact you from WCNC Charlotte, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app and enable push notifications. […]

connect-the-dots

FDA to reveal data on child deaths following COVID vaccination at CDC meeting

At an upcoming CDC advisory committee meeting, officials plan to present data that points to at least 25 reported deaths in children following vaccination. 
That data comes from the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, a public database where anyone can submit a report of a possible vaccine side effect. But health experts stress an important point: These reports are not verified, meaning they don’t prove that the vaccine directly caused harm.
This review comes as the CDC prepares to update its vaccine guidance for the fall.
Officials want to look at all the evidence before making new recommendations for children and teens.
Public health leaders continue to emphasize that COVID vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective for most people, but they also say keeping the process transparent is key to maintaining public trust. […]

home

Juan Diego Mazuera Arias narrowly wins Charlotte City Council District 5 primary recount

Mazuera Arias said he won by 34 votes.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A tightly contested Charlotte City Council primary race has finally been decided. 

Juan Diego “JD” Mazuera Arias narrowly beat incumbent Councilwoman Marjorie Molina in the District 5 race. Mazuera Arias said the recount ultimately came down to 34 votes, in his favor. 

The Mecklenburg County Board of Elections confirmed the votes have been certified. 

RELATED: Incumbents dominate Charlotte primary, but fresh faces emerge in Districts 3 and 5

Mazuera Arias said he will be the city’s first Latino councilmember, which he noted is particularly notable with Hispanic Heritage Month underway. 

“This is not just my victory,” Mazuera Arias said in a post on X. ” It belongs to East Charlotte, to all of us, and to all who have fought to make our city more inclusive and representative.”

Mazuera Arias also thanked Molina for the work and contributions made to District 5 and the city at large during her two terms. 

Molina acknowledged the recount results on X as well, saying she considers it a “tremendous honor” to have served as the first Black woman ever duly elected to lead the district. 

“We made significant progress,” Molina said. “Progress that I am extremely proud of.”

Molina said the district is “rich in diversity and perspective,” and congratulated Mazuera Arias on his win. 

Mazuera Arias will run unopposed in November, so is set to assume the office later this year.

“This December, I look forward to hitting the ground running on City Council & fighting for a better East Charlotte — one rooted in honesty, integrity, equity, & a deep love for community.” Mazuera Arias said. “Our work is just beginning. Now, for the people.”

For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts that impact you from WCNC Charlotte, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app and enable push notifications.  […]

No Picture
home

How fallout from the light rail stabbing could impact Charlotte’s political sphere

The fatal stabbing on Charlotte’s Blue Line has amplified political discussions on crime and public safety ahead of the November election.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The fatal stabbing of a passenger on Charlotte’s Lynx Blue Line light rail has triggered a citywide — and national — conversation that’s reaching deep into the political sphere. With the November election approaching, and a major sales tax proposal on the ballot, crime and public safety are quickly becoming defining issues in the Queen City. 

Tragedy on the Blue Line

The attack occurred on Aug. 22, when 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska was fatally stabbed while riding the light rail. Authorities say the suspect, Decarlos Brown Jr., acted without provocation. Tuesday, a grand jury returned a murder indictment for Brown. 

Video of the stabbing, which circulated widely online, fueled public outrage and immediate concerns over safety on Charlotte’s public transit system.

Brown had a history of arrests, raising questions about how and why he remained free. Some Republican leaders across North Carolina pointed to flaws in the justice system, while others have blamed what they call “soft-on-crime” policies for contributing to the tragedy.

Spotlight on Mayor Lyles

Mayor Vi Lyles, who recently won the Democratic nomination for another term, has come under fire for what critics say was a delayed and muted response. 

In her response, Lyles acknowledged the community’s grief and pledged to improve safety across the city’s transit system. She emphasized that the city had already been making long-term investments in infrastructure, transit safety, and police coordination, and pledged more transparent communication going forward.

Crime as a campaign issue

With the general election looming, Lyles’ challengers have seized on the light rail attack as evidence of broader leadership failures. Some are calling for:

Stronger bail policies for repeat offendersIncreased police presence on and around public transitExpanded use of surveillance and emergency systems in the CATS networkFaster response times and improved coordination between CATS security and CMPD

The mayor, meanwhile, has cautioned against over-policing and emphasized a balanced approach — one that also includes expanding mental health services and housing support.

Voters face big decisions

Charlotte voters will not only decide who should lead the city but also vote on a proposed 1% sales tax increase, revenue that would fund transportation and infrastructure improvements.That puts even more pressure on city leadership to convince residents that their transit system is safe, reliable, and worth investing in.

RELATED: Mecklenburg County approves new transportation authority for upcoming referendum

Some residents say the Blue Line attack has shaken their confidence.

At the state level, Republican lawmakers are proposing new legislation that could potentially include restarting the death penalty and ending cashless bail, according to Senate Leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Destin Hall.

The proposals remain in the discussion phase, but Republican leaders said they have started conversations across the aisle and with Gov. Josh Stein. They plan to have the legislation finalized when the General Assembly returns to session later this month.

Bottom line

As the mayoral race heats up, the political reverberations from the Blue Line stabbing are unlikely to fade. The attack has brought long-simmering debates over crime, public safety, mental health, and leadership to the forefront of Charlotte’s civic conversation.

With early voting approaching and public trust on the line, what happened on the light rail in August may very well shape what happens at the ballot box in November. […]