March 19, 2024
LATEST NEWS
connect-the-dots

Sand hole collapses posing real dangers at NC beaches

OCEAN ISLE BEACH, N.C. — Spring break is around the corner for a lot of families, and if you’re planning to head to the beach, officials are warning people of a danger outside of the water.
The sand is posing a deadly risk for vacationers. Let’s connect the dots.
‌Sand hole collapses are posing real dangers, and its causing big concerns on the Carolina coast, including in the Outer Banks.
It doesn’t just affect humans — holes also pose risks for sea life. Sea turtles fall into them, trapping mothers and their hatchlings.
‌Officials recommend leaving the holes to the sand crabs, and if you do dig a hole, be sure to fill it in after you’re done.
All of WCNC Charlotte’s podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.  […]

environment

South Charlotte residents speak out against two big development proposals

The rezoning petitions for two different projects would total more than 1,500 housing units.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Two project proposals aim to reshape south Charlotte.

On Monday night, Charlotte City Council held public hearings on two housing developments that developers are hoping to build in District 7. 

Both projects encompass about 180 acres and could create a mix of housing totaling over 1,500 units in south Charlotte. One project is smaller in size than the other but is being met with fierce opposition. 

People in green shirts that said, “No Rezoning” flooded the Government Center Monday night. 

Download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app for the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts. 

“It is very rare, something like this,” District 7 Councilman Ed Driggs told WCNC Charlotte. 

Driggs was referring to the fact that there are two big rezoning petitions in his district being considered at the same time. Another council member noted during the meeting that they’ve never seen so many citizens come to a zoning meeting to oppose a petition.

Piper Glen residents are urging city officials to vote no on the petition to build 640 apartments and townhomes, mostly for a retirement community, on 53 acres next to the Four Mile Greenway.  

RELATED: Homeowners in south Charlotte concerned about impact of proposed development on environment, traffic

Many homeowners are against having high-density housing in the area due to traffic and congestion concerns. “We’ve asked them three times to reduce it and they haven’t,” homeowner Garland Green said during the hearing.  

The land, called the Gillespie property, will be developed.  

Driggs explained that the decision is whether to allow the developer to build houses and duplexes as allowed on the land in the UDO, or to rezone the property for higher density, but with added community benefits. 

“Our UDO promotes the idea of higher-density housing and a diversity of housing types. So, people in single-family home areas are thinking, ‘I don’t want that here, that’s not what this area is like,'” Driggs said. 

RELATED: Charlotte selected for program that addresses pollution, racial disparities

His district is also home to 125 acres of farmland, called the Cato property, on Tom Short Road. It could be the future home to over 900 apartments, townhomes, and houses, plus a middle school. 

Two neighbors came to the public hearing Monday to speak in opposition to the petition.  

“If the Gillespie rezoning was an exhibit for overcrowding and over-densifying Charlotte, the Cato rezoning is exhibit 1B for that,” south Charlotte resident Glen Danzinger argued.

Driggs previously told WCNC Charlotte that he will not support the Gillespie proposal as it stands, but he thinks the Cato proposal has promise. 

“I’m just hoping on Cato in particular that we can work with the residents to achieve an improvement on the stormwater side and a minimum impact on traffic,” Driggs said.

City leaders noted this public hearing highlights issues in Charlotte’s new zoning code called the UDO. They think more work needs to be done to ensure infrastructure improvements come with future growth. 

Contact Julia Kauffman at jkauffman@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram. 

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RELATED: Mecklenburg County health leaders working to combat the number of kids vaping

RELATED: A ‘one-time error’ caused NC voter’s party affiliation to change, state board of elections says […]

health

County health leaders looking for creative ways to help kids stop vaping

Last year, the State of North Carolina was awarded millions from a major e-cigarette manufacturer based on deceptive marketing geared toward teens.

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — “It’s 6 o’clock in the morning and when I go in the bathroom, it’s like 30 people in there vaping, they’re tweaking,” recent grad Jayden Thomas said.

More kids are becoming addicted to nicotine, with school districts like CMS reporting 758 documented incidents of use of a vaping device last school year.

Download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app for the latest breaking news, weather qand traffic alerts.

Some students say that number may not include the many kids who vape in hideaway spots.

“Most of the hidden spots are like the bathrooms or locker rooms,” student Josiah More said. 

Vaping is an issue state and local leaders are working to tackle, with Mecklenburg County public health leaders assessing 228 local tobacco retailers to find solutions.

“The results of that assessment showed some alarming things … one being that 70% of our tobacco retailers are within a half-mile radius of our schools,” Mecklenburg County Assistant Health Director Kimberly Scott said.

“It’s easy to get,” Thomas said. “You can just go to the gas station and get a vape.”

County leaders say online sales are also helping drive the addiction, which is encouraging them to take a multi-layered approach.

“This has been a disturbing upward trend and we’re hoping we can through our efforts reverse some of those trends,” Scott said. 

Scott discussed some initiatives that are geared toward helping young people quit vaping through support and resources.

This is Quitting is one initiative that has expanded within North Carolina, including Mecklenburg County. A second initiative called Quit the Hit is an Instagram-based campaign that focuses on youth cessation resources for teenagers.

As local leaders continue to find creative ways to help teens, some are optimistic vaping trends will shift gears.

“They don’t want to vape — it’s just they can’t stop,” Thomas said.

You can stream WCNC Charlotte on Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV, just download the free app.

Along with tackling youth engagement with vaping, next month Mecklenburg County public health leaders are also launching a tobacco coalition hoping to educate about tobacco and its impact on underserved communities.

Contact Tradesha Woodard at twoodard1@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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forecast

A cold start Tuesday

Much warmer Wednesday with plnety of sunshine.

Author: WCNC Staff, Brad Panovich, Chris Mulcahy, Brittany Van Voorhees (WCNC), KJ Jacobs, Larry Sprinkle

Published: 12:41 PM EST March 6, 2019

Updated: 9:22 PM EDT March 18, 2024

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Tonight:

Clear and cold with a freeze warning for many counties. Protect those tender plants that have come up early—lows in the low 30s by morning and very breezy with northwest winds 10-15 mph. 

Tuesday

Skies will be sunny with cool temperatures continuing across the area.  Highs should be in the upper 50s to around 60° with west winds around ten to fifteen mph. This gentle to moderate breeze will keep the pollen count high. Look for lows in the upper 30s. 

A cold start onTuesday with a light freeze and then mostly sunny and cool with highs near 60°. #cltwx #ncwx #scwx #wcnc pic.twitter.com/P0csw10CUJ— Brad Panovich (@wxbrad) March 19, 2024

RELATED: Weather IQ: The severe weather words you need to know

Wednesday-Friday

Wednesday will be the warmest day of the with highs in the low 70s again.Thursday and through the weekend, highs will range across the 60s. Friday will be the wettest and coolest day of the week.Rain moves in for the morning and will become widespread. It is shaping up to be almost a washout or rain for most of the day at least.

Weekend forecast

Rain could linger into Saturday morning but should be all clear by the afternoon at leastBoth mornings starting in the 50sBoth afternoons reaching into the mid 60s

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RELATED: Weather myths: Deciphering fact from fiction

WCNC Charlotte’s Weather IQ YouTube channel gives detailed explainers from the WCNC Charlotte meteorologists to help you learn and understand weather, climate and science. Watch previous stories where you can raise your Weather IQ in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.

Stay connected to the WCNC Charlotte Weather Team:

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

Contact Larry Sprinkle at lsprinkle@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram. 

Contact Chris Mulcahy at cmulcahy@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

Contact Brittany Van Voorhees at bvanvoorhe@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Contact KJ Jacobs at kjacobs3@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram. […]

crime

After violent week in Charlotte leaves 8 dead, many question the city's approach

The first three months of 2024 have been the deadliest that Charlotte has seen in over a decade.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It’s been a deadly week in Charlotte. Since Tuesday, eight people have been found dead in the Queen City. So far this year, 27 people have been killed. That’s nine more than this time last year. 

Here is crime data from CMPD for the last four years:

2024 – 27 people2023 – 18 people2022 – 15 people2021 – 13 people2020 – 19 people

The start of this year is now the deadliest three months Charlotte has seen in at least a decade. Greg Jackson with Heal Charlotte said while he reflects on the numbers he looks forward to the future.

For the latest stories that focus on people seeking solutions to systemic issues, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app and enable push notifications.

“Where are we going,” Jackson said. “[I] Immediately start thinking about what the numbers are going to look like at the end of the year.” 

Jackson said curbing this starts ad-497c-bea2-54fa3ac8c435t the beginning and is a domino effect.

RELATED: Northwest Charlotte shooting leaves man dead

“We can’t serve the kids without serving the parents, can’t serve the parents without serving the kids, we can’t stop the violence without putting people in housing, can’t do that unless they are making a good hourly wage,” Jackson said. “The city needs to be making a larger investment financially, conflict resolution, youth programming.”

For some in the community like Jackson, it’s jarring to see and for others, this is not unexpected. 

⏯ Subscribe to WCNC Charlotte on YouTube to be notified of new videos

Ralph Miller owns Bubba’s BBQ and his business sits across the street from a crime scene that happened over the weekend. He said his over the years, the area has changed. 

“The neighborhood, it’s kind of sad,” Miller said. “The problem is, it’s all over Charlotte … the criminals have cars. You call 911 … and you go on hold.” 

WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the many issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com.

Contact Austin Walker at awalker@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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home

State Public Service Commissioner resigns over energy bill concerns

The legislation under scrutiny would grant Dominion Energy and Santee Cooper permission to construct a large natural gas plant in Colleton County.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A former state utility regulator has raised serious concerns about a proposed bill that would ease some of the state’s regulations governing power companies.

Tom Ervin, who recently submitted his resignation letter to lawmakers last week, cited the bill’s provisions regarding the construction of a new natural gas plant as a primary reason for his departure. 

Ervin’s resignation letter outlines several significant worries about the bill, notably its potential impact on solar companies and the level of public oversight it allows. He also issued a stark warning, cautioning that these proposed changes could lead to a recurrence of the costly V.C. Summer nuclear station debacle.

“Here it comes again, it’s deja vu all over,” said Ervin. “We need more information. What will it cost? How long will it take to build it? What’s going to be the impact on ratepayers? And is it in our best interest? Or should we consider something like energy efficiency that actually studies have shown creates more jobs and costs less to ratepayers in the long run.”

The legislation under scrutiny would grant Dominion Energy and Santee Cooper permission to construct a large natural gas plant along the Edisto River in Colleton County. 

Another notable aspect of the bill being considered by lawmakers is a proposal to reduce the size of the Public Service Commission to three members. Additionally, it would require regulators to consider the economic impact of new electric utility projects and permit off-the-record meetings with utility representatives.

“Decisions need to be made transparently, with a complete record of proceedings, to ensure accountability and transparency,” Ervin added.

Environmental watchdog groups like the conservation voters of south carolina are also lining up against the bill. 

“When you look at what’s in the bill, I could understand how a commissioner wouldn’t want to be put in the situation that bill puts them in. It’s essentially a rubber stamp on plans that could, you know, really harm south carolina, its people, and the environment here,” said John Booker with the Conservation Voters of South Carolina. 

Senator Brad Hutto, a co-sponsor of a similar bill in the Senate, acknowledged Ervin’s concerns but emphasized the urgent need to address the state’s energy crisis. 

“If we’re not going to cite another coal plant, we’re not going to cite a nuclear plant, and it seems in a natural gas plant for South Carolina, is probably the best option. What it would take to cite a new gas plant here is the question,” said Hutto. “We’ll just have to see what tweaks in the law, changes in the law we have to make to make that happen.”

Dominion Energy South Carolina responded to Ervin’s claims, saying in a statement: 

Our proposed plans to build a natural gas combined cycle resource is a key part of this commitment to help end reliance on coal as soon as possible. We must complete a thorough regulatory process with the Public Service Commission of South Carolina and other oversight agencies, which includes siting and permitting, to get approval on this proposed project – just as we would for any other project of this kind

While Speaker Smith was unavailable for comment Monday, House members are expected to discuss amendments to the bill later this week.

The General Assembly holds the authority to appoint Ervin’s replacement, with the Governor able to make the appointment if they are out of session.

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home

Police identify man hit, killed by train in University City area

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A man was hit and killed by a train in the University City area on Sunday afternoon, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. 
Police later identified the man as 30-year-old Mohamed Ahmed.
People were encouraged to stay away from the area where Old Concord Road and W.T. Harris Boulevard meet on Sunday. 
This stretch of road was closed as CMPD investigated the deadly crash between a train and a pedestrian near the intersection of old Concord Road and McLean Road.  
Officers had responded to a report of a pedestrian struck by an Amtrak Train and found Ahmed, unresponsive, on the tracks. They said Ahmed was walking southbound on the tracks when he was hit.
This investigation is active and ongoing.
 If your loved one was impacted by this incident, WCNC Charlotte hopes to make this process less painful with our More Than A Number initiative. With your help, we want to share who your loved one was with our viewers in North Carolina and South Carolina. When you’re ready, fill out the form below or send us photos, memories and other details about them to desk@wcnc.com.   […]

crime

Northwest Charlotte shooting leaves man dead

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A man is dead after a shooting in northwest Charlotte on Sunday morning, Medic confirmed. 
The shooting happened Sunday around 5 a.m. on Bradford Drive. 
A suspect has not been identified, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
The victim was identified Monday as 31-year-old Darien Morrison.
CMPD said it would provide additional details when more information becomes available. 
 If your loved one was impacted by this incident, WCNC Charlotte hopes to make this process less painful with our More Than A Number initiative. With your help, we want to share who your loved one was with our viewers in North Carolina and South Carolina. When you’re ready, fill out the form below or send us photos, memories and other details about them to desk@wcnc.com.   […]

environment

A freeze warning is in effect. Here's what that means

Tuesday will mark only the second time this month Charlotte has seen below-freezing temperatures.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Freezing temperatures will make a brief, but unwelcomed, return to Charlotte on Tuesday.

Brad Panovich and the WCNC Charlotte Weather Team forecast for a low-temperature Tuesday morning at 30 degrees in Charlotte. Combined with the wind, the wind chill could make it feel more like 28 degrees.

The temperatures on Tuesday are similar to the cold snap from the start of last week when morning commuters and school bus riders had to dig back out winter coats between days of 70-degree weather. Last Monday and Tuesday were the only days so far this month where morning low temperatures were actually below the average temperature range for Charlotte. All the other days have had morning temperatures above the climactic average, which for Charlotte, dates back to 1878. 

Temperatures Tuesday morning will feel extra chilly because they come sandwiched between 70 degrees, which is above-average for March weather in Charlotte. 

However, there has been one big procedural change since last week. Sunday marked the beginning of the “growing season” in Charlotte and some surrounding counties. 

The growing season marks the period when plants and crops could have begun growing. Recent above-average temperatures have caused the blooming and budding of some plants.

While perennials may have been tricked by recent warm weather, Panovich has been warning home gardeners and farmers from starting any new crops just yet.

“We’re going to see another freeze by the end of the month,” Panovich forewarned on March 11. “We’re gonna see some overnight lows well below freezing by the end of the month, and it is still early.”

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Again this week, Panovich is still warning about the likelihood of one more cold snap.

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

“The best advice I have for you is to bring in plants,” WCNC Charlotte meteorologist Chris Mulcahy said. “Frost needs to have an open sky. So if you put it even under the porch, a covering is going to help.”

If you can’t bring in your plants and they started growing because of recent warm temperatures, you can cover them with blankets, cardboard, sheets, towels, or even a tarp.

RAISE YOUR WEATHER IQ: How frost forms

It is only during the growing season when the National Weather Service, the government agency charged with issuing official weather warnings, issues freeze warnings. Outside the growing season, the agency does not issue freeze warnings during the heart of winter.

The growing season for counties such as Cleveland, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Carbuss, and Union in North Carolina — and York, Chester, Lancaster, and Chesterfield in South Carolina — began Sunday. Further north, where most plants won’t start growing until the average temperature warms further, the growing season will begin March 24. In the highest elevations of the western North Carolina mountains, such as in Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties, the growing season does not officially start until May 1.

“So we often use that Tax Day, April 15, at the best rule of thumb for planting around here,” Panovich said of the Charlotte growing season. “If you really want to wait, wait till after Mother’s Day.”

Charlotte’s average last freeze is now March 28. Historically, it has come as late as May 2, 1963.

The last frost does not typically arrive until April 10, and as late as, May 18 in 1973.

Over the past 24 years, the average nighttime low in Charlotte was 41 degrees during March. Compare that to an average high temperature of 64 degrees.

Globally warming temperatures have adjusted the start of the growing season slightly earlier than previous decades.

Those same warming trends can be credited with securing Charlotte’s longest-running drought without measurable snow. As of Monday, Charlotte has now gone 779 days with nothing more than a few flakes. January 30, 2022, was the last time snow accumulated in the Queen City.

Charlotte’s official temperature and weather observations are recorded at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

WCNC Charlotte’s Weather IQ YouTube channel gives detailed explainers from the WCNC Charlotte weather meteorologists to help you learn and understand weather, climate and science. Watch previous stories where you can raise your Weather IQ in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded. 

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crime

Man arrested after police chase in Mooresville

The first chase happened on Friday, March 15, around 9:30 p.m. Police began following a driver who was believed to be fleeing a law enforcement checking station on Highway 115. 
Officers lost sight of the white Chevrolet Corvette the driver was in near Interstate 77 southbound at Exit 31, and the chase ended.
The next day, around 8 p.m., MPD officers found the same vehicle at LangTree Market on Mecklynn Road. Officers used a license plate reader and determined the car was registered to Carlos Manuel Clark, who had an active warrant. 
When officers tried to box in the Corvette, the driver got away, striking two patrol vehicles in the process. After a chase on I-77 southbound, the driver pulled onto the shoulder north of Exit 23 and tried to run away, but was caught by officers and a K-9.
The driver, Christopher Lewis Clark, was the twin brother of the registered owner of the Corvette. He was carrying a concealed handgun and is facing multiple charges. He was taken to the Iredell County Detention Center and placed under a $50,000 secured bond. […]

elections

DMV 'one-time error' switched Stanly County voter's party affiliation

Stephanie Smith voted by provisional ballot on Super Tuesday after raising concerns that her registration listed the incorrect party.

STANLY COUNTY, N.C. — A “one-time error” by a state agency caused a Stanly County voter’s party affiliation to change without her approval, according to the North Carolina State Board of Elections. The Stanly County Board of Elections has since accepted the unaffiliated voter’s primary election provisional ballot after she contested her registration as a Democrat on Super Tuesday.

Stephanie Smith raised several concerns on Election Day about her voter registration document, including the fact someone else’s signature was at the bottom of the form. 

“It is our understanding that this individual visited the Albemarle Driver License Office on July 31, 2023, and a DMV transaction and voter registration application were initiated,” NCSBE Public Information Officer Patrick Gannon said. “Soon after starting the process, it was revealed that the customer was ineligible for the driver license service that was initiated. Neither that transaction, nor the voter application, was completed. However, the incomplete voter registration application was mistakenly sent to the State Board of Elections and processed. It is the State Board’s understanding that this was a one-time error and that the (North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles) has taken corrective action to ensure this does not happen again. This includes Division-wide training and an after-action review. The error occurred as a result of an incomplete transaction. The signature was for the next customer serviced.”

Download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app for the latest breaking news, weather qand traffic alerts. 

Smith previously told WCNC Charlotte she had to fill out a provisional ballot, because if she didn’t, she would’ve been required to vote in the Democratic primary, even though Smith said she’s not a Democrat.

Ahead of Election Day, Smith said she went to the state’s website to confirm her precinct and quickly noticed her party affiliation was listed as Democrat. She said she did not notice the error on her registration card, because she recently moved and was preoccupied.

“I’m always registered as unaffiliated or an independent voter,” Smith told WCNC Charlotte. “When I saw that I was a registered Democrat, I was very confused.”

Smith said upon discovering the issue, she immediately went to the election office, afraid it might be the result of a clerical error. She said her fears only grew when workers printed out the last voter registration form they received from the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, the agency Smith said she registered through in 2023 when she secured her new driver’s license. Not only did she see someone else’s signature on the NCDMV form, she noticed the wrong place of birth listed and a submission date several days before the state issued her new license.

RELATED: South Carolina opens second round of school safety grants after few districts received money

“I have no idea who that is,” Smith said of the mystery signature on the voter registration application. “Somebody’s messing with something that I can’t see and I don’t like it, because I should have full control over what that information states.”

Stanly County Director of Elections Kimberly Blackwelder told WCNC Charlotte this was an uncommon complaint.

“I can confirm that the staff and myself spoke with Stephanie at length regarding her voter registration record,” Blackwelder said. “We informed her of the option to vote a provisional ballot, and she provided our office with documentation to assist us in researching her record during the canvass period. The provisional process is very important in situations where the voter’s information or eligibility is in question.”

You can stream WCNC Charlotte on Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV, just download the free app.

There are multiple allowable instances where voters can vote by provisional ballot. 

Smith said she used her provisional ballot to vote in the Republican primary. At the time, she also alerted criminal investigators, unsure if this was the result of a mistake or something more sinister.

Contact Nate Morabito at nmorabito@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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crime

Allisha Watts murder: Attorney calls for James Dunmore to be released from jail

The attorney for James Dunmore, who is charged with killing his then-girlfriend Allisha Watts, called for his release.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, N.C. — James Dunmore, the man accused of killing Allisha Watts, will not have his bond changed despite a request from his attorney.

A judge denied a request Monday by Dunmore and his lawyer to change his bond conditions. WRAL News on Friday confirmed Dunmore’s attorney had asked the court to change his $1 million secured bond to unsecured so Dunmore can wait for trial outside of prison.

Dunmore is the man accused of killing his then-girlfriend Watts, the Charlotte woman whose remains were found in August in Montgomery County, North Carolina after an extensive search.  Dunmore has been charged with murder.

The request from Dunmore’s lawyer came after the state medical examiner said last week they were unable to determine the official cause of death for the woman. Dunmore’s attorney said because of that indetermination, his bond should be changed.

Download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app for the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts.

The report states Watts’ cause of death was “undetermined” because her body was so badly decomposed by the time it was found in the woods. In summary, the report said the remains showed no apparent injuries. 

The report included other graphic details about the condition of her body, some of those details, published within this paragraph, include that Watts’ body was “skeletonized” and “severely decomposed.” The autopsy report from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services said Watts’s skull was detached, the body was entirely decomposed, and that she was missing teeth. She was 39 when she died.

Watts was last seen alive leaving her boyfriend James Dunmore’s Charlotte home on July 16, 2023. Family members said she had tickets to a comedy show at Bojangles Coliseum but never arrived. She was reported missing by family members three days later. 

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office said Dunmore was arrested on Aug. 24, 2023, the same day investigators found Watts’ body in a remote area near a cemetery in the town of Norman. 

Montgomery County Sheriff Pete Herron said officials believed her body had been there since July 18, the same day Dunmore was found unresponsive in Watts’ SUV in Anson County.

Friends and family of Watts returned to the courthouse Monday. After the hearing, they gathered outside the courthouse to speak to reporters and the community.

Allisha Watts disappearance timeline

July 16, 2023: Allisha Watts is last seen leaving James Dunmore’s home in northeast Charlotte. The couple was supposed to attend a comedy show at Bojangles Coliseum but Watts never made it, family members said. 

July 18, 2023: Dunmore was found unresponsive in Watts’ Mercedes-Benz SUV outside a DMV office in Anson County. Detectives said he appeared to be the victim of an apparent attempted suicide. 

July 19, 2023: Watts is reported missing by family after she never returned home from Charlotte. Her best friend said it wasn’t like Watts to not show up at work and she immediately became suspicious. 

July 20, 2023: A shell casing was found by Charlotte-Mecklenburg police outside Dunmore’s home. It was for a 9 mm handgun. 

July 26, 2023: Family and friends of Allisha Watts travel to Charlotte demanding answers from CMPD. Watts’ best friend and a cousin said they saw red flags in Dunmore’s behavior, but her best friend said Watts shrugged it off because they were “in love.”

On this same day, CMPD searched Dunmore’s home again looking for evidence that could be used to cover up a homicide. Warrants revealed that detectives were looking for all sorts of evidence, including guns, other weapons and DNA evidence. They seized clothing, phones, a camera, laptop and other critical evidence. 

Aug. 1, 2023: WRAL-TV reports that Dunmore had a lengthy criminal history in Virginia, including convictions for assault and battery, stalking and abduction. 

Aug. 2, 2023: It’s revealed that a Durham courthouse granted a protective order to a woman claiming to be Dunmore’s wife. The woman requested the order in March 2023 and it was granted on April 9. The woman claimed Dunmore was physically abusive and threatened to kill her. 

Watts’ sister Tammy Utley shared a letter with WCNC Charlotte pleading for answers in the case. Utley wrote that the community “deserved to know” what happened to their beloved sister and asked Dunmore what made him “snap.”

Aug. 8, 2023: Utley shares another letter asking Dunmore to tell the truth about what happened to Watts. She also criticized CMPD’s handling of the case, saying they weren’t being informed about new developments. 

Aug. 9, 2023: CMPD detectives address the case publicly for the first time. Capt. Joel McNelly says the department’s main goal is to find Watts and to protect the integrity of the case. He revealed CMPD had a surveillance photo showing Watts and Dunmore together at Northlake Mall. 

Aug 22, 2023: A 911 call lays out a clear timeline of when Watts’ vehicle left Dunmore’s home. 

Aug. 24, 2023: Remains believed to be Watts are found in Montgomery County. Dunmore is arrested a short time later in Charlotte and will be charged with murder.

Aug. 25, 2023: Dunmore is charged with murder.

Aug. 28, 2023: Dunmore appears in court. He was read his murder charge, given a court-appointed attorney, and told he’d be held without bond.

Sept. 1, 2023: Friends and family come together at Northlake Mall to remember the life of Allisha Watts. “The pain is endless,” Tammy, Allisha Watts’ sister, said. “Show love to one another because you never know when the last time will be the last time.”

Sept. 14, 2023: The court finds probable cause that James Dunmore killed Watts on or around July 18.

Oct. 23, 2023: Despite being listed on the administrative docket for that day, Dunmore did not appear in court.

Oct. 25, 2023: Dunmore was given a $1 million bond in court. Montgomery County District Attorney Lynn Clodfelter stated they will not seek the death penalty.

Dec. 7, 2023: Before Watts was killed, she was planning on opening up a group home for those who needed help. Taisha Calloway and her family created a foundation to continue her work in advocating for equality for those seeking treatment for mental health. Calloway spoke to WCNC Charlotte about her mission.

Jan. 29, 2024: The defense attorney for James Dunmore asks the judge to expedite the release of evidence.

Feb. 7, 2024: Watts’ mother, Evex Franklin, opens up about her daughter’s death, saying “I think about how my baby was laying near a graveyard.”

March 13, 2024: Allisha Watts’ autopsy results listed her cause of death as “undetermined.”

WCNC Charlotte wants to hear about your loved one

If your loved one was impacted by this incident, WCNC Charlotte hopes to make this process less painful with our More Than A Number initiative. With your help, we want to share who your loved one was with our viewers in North Carolina and South Carolina. When you’re ready, fill out the form below or send us photos, memories and other details about them to desk@wcnc.com. 

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CATS riders unable to buy new tickets online

The Charlotte Area Transit System is experiencing an issue processing new purchases on the CATS-Pass App and online ticket sales.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Riders of the Charlotte Area Transit System buses and trains cannot currently purchase new tickets using the CATS app or website.

A technical outage is preventing the purchase of new ticket fares using the CATS-Pass App or online pass sales, the transit system announced Monday. The issue is impacting transit services city-wide.

Riders who have previously purchased digital tickets can still redeem those tickets from within the app for travel needs.

Those needing to purchase new passes on the system’s Lynx Blue Line light rail or CityLynx Gold Line streetcar can purchase passes using in-person kiosks near station platforms. Bus riders can purchase tickets using exact change.

You can stream WCNC Charlotte on Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV, just download the free app.

🚨 CATS-Pass App and online pass sales are currently not accepting payments. Existing purchases in a CATS-Pass account are not impacted. Passes can be purchased in person or at ticket vending machines. CATS is aware of this ongoing issue that is impacting services city wide. pic.twitter.com/QGsX9KMnuN— Charlotte Area Transit System (@CATSRideTransit) March 18, 2024

The CATS-Pass app for Apple iPhones and Android devices was launched in 2021. 

Download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app for the latest breaking news, weather qand traffic alerts. 

The city’s transit bus system began new management this year. National Express Transit took over management from RAPTDev, who did not submit a bid to continue operations after years of problems including staffing shortages and concerns about driver safety. 

Listen to free podcasts from WCNC Charlotte

Flashpoint is a weekly in-depth look at politics in Charlotte, North Carolina, South Carolina, and beyond with host Ben Thompson. Listen to the podcast weekly. SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora  || Google Podcasts || iHeart

Locked On is the leading podcast network for local sports and is owned by WCNC Charlotte’s parent company TEGNA. Listen to Locked On here. 

WCNC Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at WCNC Charlotte.   SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || TuneIn || Google Podcasts || iHeart

All of WCNC Charlotte’s podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere. 

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Here's what you should do with your tax refund

If you receiving a tax refund this year, it might feel like you just got some “free money.” But financial experts say it’s important to save that money.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Have you filed your taxes yet? If so, you might be getting your tax refund soon. 

But before you spend that refund, WCNC Charlotte is taking a closer look at what you should do with the money instead so you’re not left asking “Where’s the money?”

If you are receiving a tax refund this year, it might feel like you just got some “free money.” But financial experts say it’s important to save that money, rather than spend it right away. 

“When it comes to a lump sum of money, for a lot of people that only happens one time a year during tax season, and they get this check they’ve been waiting on all year,” Mark Henry, CEO of Alloy Wealth Management, said. 

WCNC Charlotte is always asking “where’s the money?” If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.

Henry said some people use their tax return and try to tackle some of their debt. But he said don’t rush to that option.

“I would caution people not to do that — and that sounds crazy, being the finance guy that I am,” he said. “We have to get rid of that debt, but if we don’t already have an emergency fund, which is three to six months of living expenses set aside… and because we don’t have an emergency fund, guess where we have to go to to take care of life — right back to the high-interest credit cards.” 

So what is the first thing you should do when you get that tax refund? Henry said do nothing. 

“Don’t cash it, don’t deposit it, don’t do anything,” he said. “Sit down and look at your emergency fund have a real discussion in the household about where this money needs to go, and what’s the best place we could use it.” 

⏯ Subscribe to WCNC Charlotte on YouTube to be notified of new Where’s The Money videos 

For those who have waited all year to make some home repairs, Henry said try and prioritize what you do. 

“You made it last year without the back deck being fixed, you can make it this year,” Henry said. “Unless it’s an emergency where we have to get AC on the house this year because it’s been broken or something like, that I get it.” 

WCNC Charlotte’s Where’s The Money series is all about leveling the playing field in the Carolinas by helping others and breaking down barriers. WCNC Charlotte doesn’t want our viewers to be taken advantage of, so we’re here to help. Watch previous stories where we ask the question “Where’s the Money” in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.

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connect-the-dots

Sand hole collapses posing real dangers at NC beaches

OCEAN ISLE BEACH, N.C. — Spring break is around the corner for a lot of families, and if you’re planning to head to the beach, officials are warning people of a danger outside of the water.
The sand is posing a deadly risk for vacationers. Let’s connect the dots.
‌Sand hole collapses are posing real dangers, and its causing big concerns on the Carolina coast, including in the Outer Banks.
It doesn’t just affect humans — holes also pose risks for sea life. Sea turtles fall into them, trapping mothers and their hatchlings.
‌Officials recommend leaving the holes to the sand crabs, and if you do dig a hole, be sure to fill it in after you’re done.
All of WCNC Charlotte’s podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.  […]

local

'It makes me angry' | Laken Riley's father says he feels her death is being used politically

Jason Riley, Laken’s father, spoke in an interview with NBC News that aired on TODAY on Monday morning.

ATHENS, Ga. — Jason Riley, the father of slain nursing student Laken Riley, spoke out in an interview for the first time since his daughter’s death — telling NBC News he feels her death has been used politically and that it makes him “angry.”

“I feel like, you know, they’re just using my daughter’s name for that,” Riley told NBC’s Priscilla Thompson in an interview that aired Monday on TODAY. “She was much better than that. She should be raised up for the person that she is.”

RELATED: Laken Riley’s murder on UGA’s campus becoming focal point for politicians discussing immigration policies

Jason Riley, Laken’s biological father, told NBC his daughter was a marathon runner with dreams of being a nurse and working with children. 

“She was like an angel,” he said.

The father of Laken Riley, the 22-year-old nursing student murdered on the University of Georgia campus last month, speaks out for the first time in an @NBCNews exclusive interview. @PriscillaWT reports. pic.twitter.com/1DtdAQQrYH— TODAY (@TODAYshow) March 18, 2024

Laken’s death has become a national political flashpoint in the debate on immigration and border security, with former President Donald Trump highlighting it in comments at the border and at his rallies. 

President Joe Biden referenced Laken’s killing at the State of the Union after pressure from conservatives who have blamed Riley’s death on immigration policies. Meanwhile Latino activists and advocates for undocumented immigrants have spoken out about increasingly stigmatizing rhetoric surrounding the debate.

Riley’s accused killer Jose Ibarra is from Venezuela and entered the United States illegally in 2022, according to federal authorities. 

Trump met with Laken’s mother, stepfather and siblings, and posed for a widely-circulated photo before his rally earlier this month in Rome, according to NBC. They were welcomed with a standing ovation and large signs handed out by the campaign that featured Riley’s photograph and the words “SAY HER NAME!” “REMEMBER OUR ANGELS,” they read on the back.

“We share your grief,” Trump told them in his remarks.

“I’d rather her not be such a political, how you say — it started a storm in our country,” Jason Riley told NBC. “And it’s incited a lot of people.”

The father did not entirely shy away from the question of immigration policy, however, telling NBC when asked if different policies would have made a difference that he has “no idea if that would’ve changed anything” but that Ibarra, the accused killer, “might not have been here had we had secure borders.”

“Laken has been a rallying cry for secure borders and for the illegal immigration policies of this current administration, but there’s many women we don’t get to hear about,” he added in his comments to NBC.

Riley’s father told the network he wishes he had been there to protect her.

“I wish it would have been me,” he said. 

“Se was so full of life,” he added. “I just hate that she was taken so early.”

News happens fast. Stream it faster with our re-designed 11Alive+ app.

Watch newscasts, breaking news streams and get the latest sports, weather and VERIFY content — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Available on Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. Text “plus” to 404-885-7600 to download 11Alive+ and stream now.

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2 people hurt in southwest Charlotte crash involving school bus, officials say

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Two people have minor injuries after a crash involving a school bus in southwest Charlotte Monday morning, officials said.
The crash happened on West Tyvola Road near Tyvola Drive just before 8 a.m. Medic confirmed two people had non-life-threatening injuries following the crash.
The crash has the eastbound lanes of Tyvola Road blocked and one westbound lane blocked. No word on when the lanes will reopen at this time.
Check back here for updates and on the WCNC Charlotte app.
All of WCNC Charlotte’s podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere. […]

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Homeowners in south Charlotte concerned about impact of proposed development on environment, traffic

The land is currently allowed to be developed with around 470 houses and duplexes but developers want to rezone the property for 640 apartments and townhomes.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — One neighborhood’s battle against a proposed development continues to get a lot of attention. 

A current change.org petition, centered around the Piper Glen development, has nearly 20,000 signatures against a rezoning petition for a rental community near Four Mile Creek Greenway. 

Piper Glen is popular for its tree canopy and trails. “It’s a great community,” homeowner Chris McIntire said.  

McIntire and his neighbor were staking signs along the greenway on Bevington Place Friday, hoping to encourage the Charlotte City Council to oppose the development. 

“Rather than seeing the trees, you’re going to see these big box apartments,” McIntire said while pointing to the woods on the other side of the creek. 

Download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app for the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts. 

Developers want to turn 53 acres of land into 640 apartments and townhomes. Most of the housing units will be age-restricted for a retirement community. 

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McIntire said he and his neighbors are asking city leaders to vote no on the rezoning request due to density, traffic, and environmental concerns. 

He also worries flooding in the area could worsen due to the development.

The developers told WCNC Charlotte the plan saves 15 acres of trees whereas the land’s current zoning code only requires saving about 6 acres of trees.  

RELATED: Disparities in access to fair housing in Gastonia continue, federal housing study shows

McIntire understands the land will be developed but he’d prefer to see houses for sale. Some neighbors want the land untouched. 

Charlotte City councilman Ed Driggs, who represents the area, said that’s not an option.

“The county expressed an interest at one point to the owner in buying the site for a park,” Driggs explained. “The owner said, ‘I don’t want to talk about that, it’s under contract.'” 

Under the land’s current zoning, the developer can build about 470 homes but no apartments. Driggs thinks rezoning could bring the community more benefits. 

“The UDO allows by-right development there that would remove most of the trees and wouldn’t require the same kind of traffic improvements that the petitioner is offering,” Driggs said.

Driggs said the project highlights concerns with the UDO, which is the city’s new zoning code. “I voted against it because I saw problems like this coming,” Driggs said. “And now we have to deal with the fact that it is the law of the land.” 

You can stream WCNC Charlotte on Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV, just download the free app.

However, Driggs said unless the homeowners and developer can come to an agreement, he will not support the project when it’s time to vote on it. 

The project has a public hearing on Monday, March 18 at the Charlotte City Council zoning meeting.

Contact Julia Kauffman at jkauffman@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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crime

Man arrested after missing mother, 2 children found dead in northeast Charlotte apartment

Police charged Benjamin Joseph Taylor, 35, with 3 counts of murder. Final identification of the remains still needs to be made with the medical examiner’s office.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte woman and her two young children were found dead more than a week after they were reported missing, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.

Police charged Benjamin Joseph Taylor, 35, with 3 counts of murder and one count of concealment of death.

Taylor was found on Saturday and arrested in Imperial County, California. He will be held in the Imperial County jail, awaiting extradition to North Carolina.

“I’m often asked what the most difficult part of my job as police chief is and without hesitation, my answer is always seeing families grieving the loss of their loved one after a violent crime–especially when small children are involved,” CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings said in a statement following the arrest.

On Friday, CMPD shared a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, that said officers were investigating an apartment complex along Orchard Trace Lane near the Interstate-85 Connecter and U.S. Highway 29. The department said at the time that human remains were found in the area.

Download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app for the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts.

Officers discovered the remains around 1:45 p.m. that day. On Saturday,  CMPD said they had presumptively identified the remains as 22-year-old Markayla Johnson and her children: 4-year-old Miracle Johnson and 7-month-old Messiah Johnson. All three had been reported missing on March 8.

Chief Jennings said in a news conference Saturday afternoon they believed a person of interest to be at large somewhere in the Carolinas. However, he also said the department wouldn’t hesitate to launch a nationwide manhunt.

Jennings did not identify the suspect during the news briefing on Saturday. However, he did say the person they were looking for was in a relationship with Johnson.

“We’re going to do everything we can to bring closure to the family and bring justice to the person responsible for these murders,” he said, “and we’re going to continue on until that is concluded.”

On Sunday, CMPD announced Taylor’s arrest in connection to the case. 

Following the arrest, Jennings called the deaths “a senseless act of violence and a devastating loss for their family and our community.” 

Members of Markayla Johnson’s family had attended Saturday’s briefing, including grandmother Ramona Johnson who lamented the tragedy.

“We loved her to death and she knew that,” Ramona Johnson said, also asking for prayers and mentioning her Christian faith. “Jesus is in charge of everything that is going on right now. We can’t do more than is expected.”

Markayla Johnson’s mother also spoke through tears.

“I miss my baby. I miss my grandkids. She was a good person and everybody knows Markayla would do anything for you. She didn’t deserve this,” she said.

A neighbor who spoke to WCNC Charlotte on Friday said the situation is making her rethink her usual routines.

“I do walk down here at night, but I’m not going to do that anymore,” she said. “This project is unsafe and they need to do something about it.”

You can stream WCNC Charlotte on Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV, just download the free app.

Anyone with information about this case can call (704) 432-TIPS to talk with detectives. Tips can also be shared anonymously with Crime Stoppers online or by calling (704) 334-1600.

Homicide Investigation in the North Tryon Division https://t.co/eeA2UQIhmw— CMPD News (@CMPD) March 15, 2024

WCNC Charlotte wants to hear about your loved one

If your loved one was impacted by this incident, WCNC Charlotte hopes to make this process less painful with our More Than A Number initiative. With your help, we want to share who your loved one was with our viewers in North Carolina and South Carolina. When you’re ready, fill out the form below or send us photos, memories and other details about them to desk@wcnc.com.

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WCNC Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at WCNC Charlotte.   SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || TuneIn || Google Podcasts || iHeart

All of WCNC Charlotte’s podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.  […]

features

Dragon helps put out fire: Charlotte Knights mascot seen helping put out uptown Charlotte fire

This time, the dragon helped extinguish a fire.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Knights mascot Homer the Dragon flipped the script Tuesday: he helped put out a fire. 

When a small brush fire broke out in a flower bed near Truist Field and Romare Bearden Park, the Charlotte Fire Department said, “Homer was in the neighborhood and assisted Charlotte Fire Engine 4 with putting the fire out.”

Walter Hawkins, who shared photos of the event with WCNC Charlotte, said he was at Romare Bearden park Tuesday around noon when he noticed the fire. Hawkins said while waiting for a fire engine to arrive, multiple people stopped to help — among them, Charlotte’s favorite dragon. 

Homer the Dragon told WCNC Charlotte he was shooting a video in the team store when the team store manager noticed a fire across the street. Homer ran over, and when he noticed an extinguisher in use had emptied, he said he knew it was time to step up.

At that point, Homer said they pulled the pin on their extinguisher, working to get the fire out. When Engine 4 pulled up, Homer said the firefighters had big smiles and let Homer use the fire hose to cover the fire in water. 

“I’m so thankful for the brave citizen that started putting the fire out, those that called 911, and the Engine 4 crew!” Homer said in a statement. “It was an honor to protect and serve the neighborhood and city that I love.” 

RELATED: Charlotte Knights announce season delayed until May 4

RELATED: Long lines at Spectrum Center COVID-19 vaccine clinic […]

gastonia

Gaston County leaders confront homelessness crisis

Gaston County Commissioners voted Tuesday to create an intergovernmental agency task force on homelessness.

GASTONIA, N.C. — Gaston County commissioners met Tuesday and voted unanimously to create a homelessness task force. The task force will review how many people are homeless, what barriers people face seeking help, and review potential solutions.

John Mills, the director of social services for The Salvation Army in Gastonia, is optimistic about the possible changes resulting from a task force.

“Just more collaboration and communication as far as our services because really no one agency can do it all,” Mills said. “I think it’d be much more stronger focus as far as our clientele and just trying to help them more.”

Dwayne Burks is the director and chaplain of The Gateway, which connects people with chronic crises to relief programs to lift themselves out of homelessness.

He said there are two challenges with Gaston County’s homelessness issue: affordable housing, and government services and non-profits in the county that are siloed in their efforts yet have overlapping responsibilities.

Gaston County commissioners will be meeting tonight to discuss forming a homelessness taskforce. Today at 5:30 p.m. @wcnc, the unique challenges to solving Gaston County’s homelessness, and how the promise of big projects could exacerbate the issue. pic.twitter.com/8MzhpLSNze
— Brandon Goldner (@BrandonWCNC) March 9, 2021

Burks said in The Gateway’s last count, they had 5,600 people receiving Supplemental Security Income from the federal government, which is under $900 a month.

But he said, at any given time, the county only has about 2,200 rental units total, with a median price of $800 a month.

“It’s wonderful to see the growth that we’re seeing in our community,” Burks said. “But we’re also gentrifying because we’re not planning ahead for that.”

He said Gaston County has a unique challenge because outside of Gastonia, there are few options for people seeking help.

“We need a pathway for those folks that’s clearly delineated, ‘This is how you get yourself out of homelessness,'” Burks said.

The number of people in Gaston County on the verge of homelessness is also on the rise.

Crisis Assistance Ministry in Gastonia helps people facing an emergency crisis situation by providing food, financial assistance, or limited medications.

Kim Wheeler, the nonprofit’s director, said the pandemic’s placed more people on the brink of homelessness.

“Most of the people we’re seeing are new applicants who have never been in this position,” Wheeler said.

From March 2020 to February 2021, the non-profit distributed $365,000 in emergency rent and utility payments, which was more than double the amount during the same period in 2019 to 2020.

Here’s a breakdown of who will be on the task force: 

A member of the board of commissioners who will chair that task force
A representative of the elected board or council of each of the cities or towns
A local faith community representative that geographically represents the county
A county health department representative appointed by the county manager as well as a social service representative
A Gaston County police department representative 
A United Way county representative 
Aston County Salvation Army representative 
Gaston/Lincoln/Cleveland Continuum of Care planning committee 
A Catherine’s House Sisters of Mercy representative

Commissioner Tracy Philbeck was approved as the chairman of the task force. […]