A second person has died as the result of a shooting last week in Catawba County. Hickory Police announced Friday, that 28 year old Cody William Watts of Hickory died as a result of injuries that occurred on Wednesday. 22 year old Richelle Scott Lail of Hudson had died at the scene of the shotting, which occured Wednesday at a parking lot of a fast food restaurant in Hickory. The investigation into the incident continues and investigators will be working with the District Attorney's Office to determine what further charges 22 year old Eric Terril Yount of Granite Falls will face.

A Morganton man faces multiple charges. On Monday February 22, about 11:45pm, Morganton Department of Public Safety Officers were dispatched to the area of 2nd Street. Communications advised that a male wearing a white jacket had assaulted a young female. The first officer at arrive at the scene locayed a man who matched that description. After an investigation and speaking with all parties. Marvin Mendez of South Anderson Street was charged with Resist, Delay or Obstruct, Communicating Threats, Simple Assault, and Sexual Battery. Mendez was placed in the Burke Catawba Detention Facility under a $10,000 secured bond. Additional charges may also be filed against Mendez.

Governor McCrory has declared this week, March 6-12, as Severe Weather Preparedness Week. Schools and government buildings statewide will tornado drills Wednesday morning at 9:30. Emergency officials recommend that you use these safety tips:
  *  Know the terms: WATCH means a tornado is possible. WARNING means a tornado has been
      spotted; take shelter immediately.
  *  Know where the nearest safe room is, such as a basement or interior room and away from
      windows, and go there immediately if you hear or see a tornado.
  *  If driving, you should leave your vehicle immediately to seek safety in an adequate structure. Do
      not try to outrun a tornado in your vehicle, and do not stop under an overpass or bridge.
  *  If you are outdoors, and there is no shelter available, take cover in a low-lying area.
More information on tornados and overall emergency prepardness can be found in the ReadyNC mobile app and online at www.ReadyNC.org.