A woman is found dead after firefighters respond to a structure fire in Morganton. Burke EOC dispatched Triple Community Fire Department Wednesday afternoon to an outside fire with structures threatened on Windy Hill Drive. Firefighters located a white female in her mid 60's deceased behind a garage, which was on fire. The victim is believed to be the homeowner, however an autopsy will be conducted for positive identification. Firefighters from seven Burke County Fire Departments responded, along with EMS, REACT and the NC Forest Service. According to a news release from EMS, the Burke County Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the fire with the Sheriff's Office, SBI and Forest Service assisting. The fire is believed to be accidental, but the exact cause is under investigation.

Burke Development, Inc. held a kickoff event Monday at the Morganton Community House for its Thrive'22 Campaign. The five-year, private sector campaign will support BDI's program of work and goal to grow the economy and create a bright economic future in Burke County, according to a news release from BDI. Thirty-seven companies and individuals have contributed to the campaign for a total of $782,500, about 80% of the campaign goal of $1 million dollars. The increase in BDI's budget, which is primarily funded by public sector, will support the creation of over 1,520 direct and indirect jobs and over $90 million in new capital investment.

A Hickory woman will spend at least 14 years in prison after being found guilty of drug offenses Tuesday, during Catawba County Superior Court. Marijo Rudisill, 49, was found guilty of selling methamphetamine and possession with intent to sell and deliver meth. After the jury returned the guilty verdict, Rudisill then pleaded guilty to another set of the same charges.