An April survey had found that walk-in customers were waiting more than three hours. Meanwhile, the number of in-office transactions has risen 7% this fiscal year to 643,000.

That timeline — more than four months for arrival alone — sparked discussion among council members and Public Services Director Dean Lindsey, who said his team is trying to expedite the process.

“Domestic violence comes in many forms — not just physical abuse,” Ellenburg said. “As your Sheriff, I want you to know that we are here to help — whether that means connecting you with assistance, removing you from a dangerous situation, diffusing a volatile conflict, or building a case for prosecution.”

Mark Tate, age 65, of Ellenboro, passed away Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at Hospice of the Carolina Foothills.

"These young men didn’t hesitate," Moore said in his statement. "They pulled over, grabbed the water bottles and drinks they had packed for the trip, and started working together to put out the flames. Their troop leader said that at one point, the flames were shoulder height. Thanks to their quick thinking and resourcefulness, they helped stop the fire before it could spread and cause serious damage."

“Not only is Boiling Springs excited about our new Chief, but I’m sure he’s excited to be here,” added N.C. House Rep. Scott. “It’s a great town, with great people; and we’re looking forward to him having a successful career in Boiling Springs.”  

“A comprehensive plan is a roadmap for how a community wants to grow,” Janko said. “It’s not just about land use—it covers housing, recreation, economic goals, and infrastructure.”

According to the court filing reviewed by WCAB News, McDowell is accused of "unlawfully, willfully, and with malice aforethought attempting to kill Brian Spurling." 

On October 22, 2025, the remains were positively identified as those of Ricky Watson, who was last seen on June 20, 2025, around 2:00 p.m., and reported missing by family members the following morning.

The survey begins by asking participants what they value most about the town — including options such as community appearance, sense of community, recreation, tourism, and the lake itself — and which attributes are most important moving forward, such as locally owned restaurants, scenic views, walkability, and parks.

“Western North Carolina can’t afford any more delays while families and businesses continue recovering from Hurricane Helene,” Edwards said. “Each day these permits are stalled is another day our mountain communities remain cut off and our economy suffers.”

In an Oct. 24 memorandum to all regional and state SNAP directors, the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) stated that “all November 2025 benefit allotments” are suspended effective November 1, “until such time as sufficient federal funding is provided, or until FNS directs State agencies otherwise.”

After several hours of searching various locations, troopers with the North Carolina Highway Patrol located Owens in Burke County as a passenger in a vehicle driven by Megan Smith of Marion. Owens was taken into custody without incident and transported back to McDowell County.

“Driving under the influence is a choice that can have devastating consequences,” said NCGHSP Director Mark Ezzell. “A critical part of celebrating Halloween is planning ahead to ensure the safety of everyone. Drivers should secure a designated sober driver to transport you to and from your festivities.”

An argument ensued between the two due to an ongoing dispute. Owens at some point during the argument produced a small caliber handgun and began firing at Wilson who by this time was in his vehicle attempting to leave the scene.  

Carl Russell Tate (“Pop,” “Papaw Carl”), of Sunshine, born on December 3, 1939, passed away peacefully at home on October 25, 2025, as he wished, surrounded by his loving family.

Linda K. Parker, age 62, of Saluda, NC, passed away Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at Advent Health-Columbus.

Following an extensive investigation, on Oct. 24, deputies arrested Craig Vegh, age 40, of Casar, NC. Vegh has been charged with two counts of Burning of Church/Religious Establishment, Possession of Methamphetamine and Destroying/Altering Evidence. He is currently being held at the Cleveland County Detention Center under $500,000.00 bond.

Long, a U.S. Army veteran, was taken to Spartanburg Regional Medical Center and later transferred to hospice care, where he died on October 18.

Ledford was indicted on six felony counts, including attempted statutory sex offense with a child and indecent liberties with a child. He was brought back to North Carolina and is now held on a $5 million secured bond.