Local agencies are coming together with a common goal – to serve you whenever we face a challenge.

That statement coming from Burke County Sheriff Steve Whisenant in a press release issued Wednesday regarding service to the community in light of the coronavirus.

Whisenant says Burke County Emergency Management has implemented an incident command team utilizing first responders, law enforcement, fire, and medical personnel to naturally come together as they have in past incidents.

In the release, the Sheriff asks for patience, understanding, and assistance during this time as he requests citizens comply with the prohibition of mass gatherings, social distancing, and other requests aimed at preventing and spreading the virus.

Sheriff Whisenant adds that if an officer’s physical presence is not needed, reports can be taken by telephone.

He further states when an officer does respond, they’ve probably already been in multiple situations and have interacted with many other people; therefore, the Sheriff encourages citizens to meet the officer outside your home to reduce the chance of exposures.

Lastly during this incident, Sheriff Whisenant encourages Burke citizens to quote ‘seek some unique opportunities to enhance the well-being of ourselves, our families, and especially the lives of others’. 

A Burke County jury deliberated less than half an hour in convicting a Morganton man of first-degree murder Tuesday.

27-year-old Darius Heasley King was given a life sentence after being found guilty in the 2018 death of 57-year-old Hubert Roland Hunter Junior.

Reports say King had gone to Hunter’s apartment to confront him about money he allegedly owed King.

An altercation reportedly broke out between the two, in which reports say King assaulted, strangled, and cut Hunter.

King initially denied his involvement, but later admitted he was involved; although he claimed it was in self-defense.

Morganton Public Safety and the SBI investigated the case.

The City of Marion facilities are now closed to the public through at least Sunday March 29^th.

Officials there are encouraging the public to conduct business using the City Hall drive-thru and drop box, by telephone at 652-3551, fax, or by email.

The City facility closure will not apply to public meetings, if held at city facilities.

Also, Marion’s DMV office is closed until further notice.

Citizens are urged to use online services when possible.

 The City of Lenoir has joined Caldwell County and others in declaring a state of emergency.

The declaration went into effect at 8 a.m. Wednesday; joining others who have already made declarations – Catawba County, Alexander County, Marion, McDowell County, and Watauga County.

In addition, Lenoir has closed City Hall to the public; conducting all business by phone, email, fax, or by other virtual means.

Lenoir’s recreation centers are also closed.

In the meantime, the Caldwell County Health Department has opened its Health Information line to provide the latest information about COVID-19; 828-426-8456.