The Lead Story

McDowell Sheriff Warns of Dangerous New Synthetic Opioid

The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to stay away from illegal drugs as a powerful new synthetic opioid emerges in the region. The warning comes amid reports of cychlorphine , a newer opioid believed to be significantly stronger than fentanyl. The drug has been detected in several states across the U.S., including South Carolina, and has recently been linked to multiple overdose deaths in East Tennessee. While the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office has not y

Lou Gilliam

53 minutes ago1 min read

Latest News

Two Arrested

On April 8, 2026, the Burke County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop. The driver was identified as Katia Celaina Christian, and the passenger as Alyson Moss Wilson.

1 min read

Fire Rises as Drought Conditions Worsen in North Carolina

A Special Weather Statement was issued Thursday by the National Weather Service for Rutherford County, warning of increased fire danger due to dry and windy conditions.

1 min read

McDowell Sheriff Warns of Dangerous New Synthetic Opioid

The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to stay away from illegal drugs as a powerful new synthetic opioid emerges in the region. The warning comes amid reports of cychlorphine , a newer opioid believed to be significantly stronger than fentanyl. The drug has been detected in several states across the U.S., including South Carolina, and has recently been linked to multiple overdose deaths in East Tennessee. While the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office has not y

1 min read

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Local News

Fire Rises as Drought Conditions Worsen in North Carolina

A Special Weather Statement was issued Thursday by the National Weather Service for Rutherford County, warning of increased fire danger due to dry and windy conditions.

1 min read

McDowell Sheriff Warns of Dangerous New Synthetic Opioid

The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to stay away from illegal drugs as a powerful new synthetic opioid emerges in the region. The warning comes amid reports of cychlorphine , a newer opioid believed to be significantly stronger than fentanyl. The drug has been detected in several states across the U.S., including South Carolina, and has recently been linked to multiple overdose deaths in East Tennessee. While the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office has not y

1 min read

Sgt. Crump Retires

The Burke County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognizes Sergeant Sam Crump as he retires after more than 27 years of dedicated and faithful service.

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Regional News

Chimney Rock council Tackles Recovery, Finances and Elections

The Chimney Rock Town Council met on April 14 to discuss storm recovery, town finances, and an upcoming municipal election. WCAB News was the only media organization present.

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Lake Lure council approves phased lake reopening

The Lake Lure Town Council voted Tuesday to begin a phased “soft opening” of the lake starting April 20, marking a major milestone in the town’s recovery while officials emphasized ongoing safety concerns and infrastructure work.

3 min read

Rutherford County Sheriff Speaks on Chimney Rock Recovery

Following Homeland Security Secretary's visit to Chimney Rock on April 7, Rutherford County Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg said it reinforced that Rutherford County remains a priority in Washington.

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Business News

Supreme Court Voids Trump Emergency Tariffs

The U.S. Supreme Court on Feb. 20 struck down President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs imposed under a federal emergency powers law, ruling 6-3 that the Constitution gives Congress — not the president — the power to levy import taxes.

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Report: Tariffs are $695M Risk to North Carolina Farmers

Plausible reductions in agricultural exports because of retaliatory trade policies stemming from aggressive U.S. tariffs could cost North Carolina farmers $695 million, a new report says.

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North Carolina Tops Nation for Workforce Development

North Carolina has been named the number one state for workforce development in 2026 by Site Selection magazine, following its 2025 ranking as “America’s Top State for Business.”

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Obituaries

Mona Callahan Ruppe

Mona Callahan Ruppe, age 75, of Cliffside, NC went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, April 13, 2026 at Atrium Health-Cleveland in Shelby.

1 min read