“This sentence was serious and reflects the grave nature of the offense,” Attorney General Jackson said. “Investigating and prosecuting this case was a team effort by law enforcement. My office will continue working with our partners to keep people safe across North Carolina.”

Travelers through some of the nation’s busiest airports could soon face fewer flights as the Federal Aviation Administration prepares to roll out temporary reductions to ease mounting strain on unpaid air traffic controllers.

Deputy James Day with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office has charged 38-year-old Jessica Helms Huskins of Marion with felony assault with a deadly weapon to inflict serious injury. Huskins was issued a secured bond of $75,000.

A search of Buchanan’s bedroom led to the discovery of the missing firearm, a Ruger LCP .380. Buchanan, a convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing a firearm in the state of North Carolina.

Investigators determined that Bartlett had set the fire following a verbal altercation with his wife. He later sent her video footage and threatening text messages confirming that he started the blaze.