“One year later, it’s clear that recovery isn’t just about repairing infrastructure,” RCS said in a statement. “It’s about people and the places that hold communities together—including our schools.”

The Rutherford County Emergency Communications Center in Forest City reported a busy two-day stretch, handling 501 emergency and administrative calls over the past 48 hours, according to a report obtained by WCAB News.

“It has been 365 days since Hurricane Helene hit our mountains, destroying roads, flooding businesses and homes and tragically taking the lives of 108 North Carolinians,” Cooper said on social media. “Today, in spite of a broken Washington, communities are stepping up and supporting each other as they rebuild.”

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.

Approximately 4.9 grams of methamphetamine and 2.7 grams of fentanyl were seized. The fentanyl, which had been ripped open during the incident, spread across the suspect, the back seat, and remaining packaging. Deputies conducted a field test that indicated the powder was fentanyl.

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. 

For generations, WCAB has been more than a radio station. It’s been a companion, a reliable source of truth, and a reflection of community life in Rutherford County. From breaking news and weather alerts to Friday night football and familiar voices on the air, WCAB has always been where this county turns for information and connection.

A winner tonight would have the choice of taking home the $474 million jackpot as an annuity or $219.4 million in cash. 

Nearly one year after Hurricane Helene devastated Lake Lure, town officials have issued a new "No Flush Order" for Firefly Cove, highlighting persistent vulnerabilities in the local sewer system.

Prosecutors said Wright took money from the Sheriff’s Office Chaplain’s Benevolence Fund in May 2023 under the pretense of covering travel expenses for deputies attending a Washington, D.C., memorial for a slain officer. Instead, Wright kept the cash for himself.

Beth was born Tuesday, December 13, 1955, in Dallas, Texas to the late Clyde Elmore Hollifield and Jean Fay Brasier Hollifield. Beth worked for many years at the Cone Mill Cliffside Plant and later in Home Healthcare. She was of the Baptist Faith. Beth loved spending time with her family, cooking and playing games. She also loved caring for her two little dogs, Mr. B and Precious. 

The data reveals how some departments have used a large portion of their allocations, while others have left the bulk of funding untouched. According to the auditor’s office, the Department of Transportation has not spent nearly 50% of its money. By contrast, the Department of Public Safety has just 16 percent of its allocated funds remaining. Other agencies fall in between. Several agencies show even higher balances. 

One year ago, Hurricane Helene tested the strength of Lake Lure, Chimney Rock Village, and the Hickory Nut Gorge. What followed wasn’t defeat, but determination. This weekend, the community will gather to honor that resilience with a series of events dedicated to remembrance, recovery, and looking toward the future.

Following the investigation, Foster was charged with multiple offenses involving a child. Sheriff Quentin Miller said the outcome demonstrates the dedication and collaboration of law enforcement professionals, adding that “the justice delivered will have a lasting impact, making our neighborhoods safer for everyone.”

According to City of Shelby officials, a contractor accidentally struck the waterline causing a temporary disruption of water service in the area.

The case began when a passerby found two children outside the home and called police. Officers discovered the crime scene, sparking a five-year investigation involving interviews with family, neighbors, and associates, as well as forensic evidence and assistance from state and federal agencies.

On Sept. 24, Judge Monica J. Gillett entered a voluntary dismissal at the DA’s request. The official disposition states: “VD–District Dismissals w/o Leave by DA – No Plea Agreement. No crime charged.”

During the stop, troopers developed probable cause to believe that controlled substances were inside the vehicle and requested assistance from the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.