"The best way to prevent rabies is to avoid contact with wild animals and ensure pets are vaccinated against rabies," said Emily Herring, NCDHHS Public Health Veterinarian. "Through this annual oral rabies vaccine distribution and the vigilance of pet owners, we can work to prevent the spread of this deadly disease."

Detective Adam Burnette with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office charged 57-year-old William Ray Messer with felony possession of methamphetamine, along with misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana (up to ½ ounce) and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The arrests took place in the parking lot of a business in Old Fort, where deputies located the vehicle along with illegal drugs. The suspects, identified as 30-year-old Matthew Paul Smith of Kingsport, Tennessee, and 31-year-old Amber Noelle Harr of Blountville, Tennessee, were taken into custody without incident.

The coordinated effort focused on ensuring compliance with North Carolina motor vehicle laws, serving outstanding arrest warrants, and deterring violent crime and drug trafficking. Law enforcement agencies used strategically placed checkpoints and saturation patrols throughout McDowell County.

Haynes bought his lucky ticket for the Sept. 13 drawing using Online Play. He matched the numbers on four white balls and the red Powerball to win $50,000. Because he bought a Power Play ticket, his prize doubled to $100,000 when the 2X multiplier hit.