COVID-19 Update 

Public health officials in Burke County reported less than 20 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday, as 16 positives are added to the total.

Burke is currently at 9-thousand-417 cases; while 569 cases are reported to be active, and 10 individuals remain hospitalized.

McDowell County health officials reported 6 new cases, and one additional virus-related death yesterday.

McDowell’s total cases stand at 4-thousand-670, with 123 residents still in quarantine.

Health officials in Caldwell County reported 32 new positive cases Thursday, and two additional deaths.

Caldwell’s total is currently at 8-thousand-631 cases.

Catawba County reported 32 additional cases of coronavius yesterday for a current total of 17-thousand-15, with 42 patients hospitalized.

Lenoir Fire

A Lenoir thrift store sustained catastrophic damages from a Tuesday night fire.

Reports say the two-alarm fire gutted the building and caused the roof to collapse at the business inside the Fairway strip mall.

Adjacent businesses also received smoke and water damages.

Those familiar with the business say monies raised from the store’s profits went to missionary work.

Store owners, reports say, are hoping insurance will help with their loss as they intend to repair the store.

Firefighters say the cause of the blaze is still unknown.

Catawba Hit and Run

A man faces numerous charges following a reported hit and run collision in Catawba County that killed a motorcyclist Wednesday evening.

Reports with the state highway patrol say 65-year-old Timothy Jay Roberts was driving south on NC 16 in a 2004 Ford pickup when he attempted a left turn onto Mount Olive Church Road.

Failing to yield the right of way, Roberts collided with an oncoming 2000 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by 26-year-old Troy Michael Faust. 

According to reports, Roberts left the scene and was found at a residence by lawmen about three miles from the accident site.

Faust reports say died at the scene.

Roberts is charged with driving while impaired, felony death by vehicle, and felony hit and run.

Roberts was jailed under a 5-thousand dollar bond.

Wanted Man

Rutherford County authorities are on the lookout for a man wanted on multiple warrants for sex crimes with children.

48-year-old Gregory Alfred Heidler is a white male, around 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighs 180 pounds and has a medium build.

Outstanding warrants on Heidler include taking indecent liberties, statutory sex offense with a child 15 years old or younger, incest of a child 15 or younger, and statutory rape of a child 15 or younger.

Officials say they do not have a known means of travel for Heidler, but they advise he has family members in Mount Airy and in Michigan.

Anyone having information on his whereabouts should call the Rutherford County Communications Center at 828-286-2911 or Rutherford Crimestoppers at 828-286-8477.

Meth Charge

A Marion man passed out behind the wheel while parked at an area convenience store is found to possess drugs.

Around 8:15 am on February 1^st, a McDowell County deputy pulled into the parking lot at the Pilot Truck Stop on Sugar Hill Road.

The officer noticed a Toyota truck with the man passed out inside.

The deputy identified the man as 29-year-old Colby Carroll Hollifield of Holly Bush Drive.

After finding drugs in his vehicle, the officer charged Hollifield with possession with intent to sell or deliver meth.

 

 

 

 

 

COVID-19 Update

Burke Public Health reported 23 new positive cases of COVID-19 Tuesday, with a total for Burke now at 9-thousand-379 cases.

583 cases remain active while 9 are still hospitalized.

Beginning today, the state will be giving vaccine priority to educators and childcare personnel with the schools.

Those who fall into this category can call the vaccination scheduling line at 358-4454 to get a vaccine appointment.

In McDowell County  health officials reported 9 new positives and 1 additional death.

McDowell’s total is 4-thousand-643 cases, while 145 are still quarantined.

NC health officials yesterday reported the lowest virus related hospitalizations and daily cases since November.

Drug Arrests

Two Burke County residents now face drug possession charges in separate incidents.

On February 9^th , a release from the Burke County Sheriff’s Office states deputies observed a vehicle traveling on Carbon City Road with fictitious plates.

Officers stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as 39-year-old Richard Ashley Rich of Connelly Springs who had active warrants for arrest.

Reports say a search of his vehicle turned up meth and drug paraphernalia.

Rich was then arrested and charged with possession of a schedule two substance and paraphernalia.

He received a 5-thousand dollar secured bond and appears in court March 4^th.

Burke deputies then responded to a report of a suspicious person February 17^th in the parking lot of the Shop and Save convenience store at Lake James.

Once on the scene, officers identified the subject as 35-year-old Christina Nichole Brown of Morganton.

Deputies observed her toss a bag underneath the vehicle she had been inside.

The substance was recovered and identified by officials as heroin.

Brown was arrested for felony possession of a schedule one substance and held at the Burke County jail under a 3-thousand dollar secured bond.

Her court date is March 12^th.

 

ALE Charges

The owner, along with an employee of a Catawba County event center both face charges following a Valentine’s Day shooting at the business.

68-year-old Chris Dietz owner of the Stump Event Center and 46-year-old Toby Dietz have been charged by the NC Alcohol Law Enforcement officers after a man was shot to death there on February 14^th.

The owner is charged, reports say, with failure to superintend and allowing violations to occur on ABC-licensed premises.

Toby Dietz is also charged with allowing violations to occur on ABC-licensed premises.

34-year-old Jordan Ramseur of Conover was killed that night at the center, while another patron was reportedly injured.

According to reports, Dietz still has his ABC permit and states he has not heard from the Catawba County ABC board.

The investigation into the incident at the event center is ongoing, and no other charges have been filed.

Marion Sex Charges

A Marion man faces multiple sex offense charges.

44-year-old Billy Jack Barker of Gowan Loop is accused of having inappropriate sexual conduct with a child under the age of 16.

Reports from the McDowell Sheriff’s Office says Barker is now charged with first degree statutory rape, first degree statutory sex offense, and tasking indecent liberties with a child.

 

 COVID-19 UPDATE

The Burke County Health Department is urging those 65 and older and health care workers who have not yet received the COVID-19 vaccine to schedule an appointment.

Officials say the county’s vaccination team is trying to finish scheduling for the 65 and older group and health care before the next group is opened for scheduling.

Beginning tomorrow, vaccination scheduling will begin for educators and other school employees.

Public Health workers urge those then 65 or older or health care workers who have not yet been vaccinated to call for an appointment at 828-764-9184 by 9 am tomorrow.

Burke County added 24 positive cases to its total since Saturday, with a current total of 9-thousand-365 cases.

598 cases are active with 8 hospitalized.

McDowell County reports 25 new cases Monday bringing the total to 4-thousand-634.

136 individuals remain quarantined.

McDowell Shooting

An officer-involved shooting early Monday morning in McDowell County results in the death of a suspect, and a deputy injured.

A news release states during a vehicle stop in the Nebo community, gunshots were exchanged between a sheriff’s deputy and occupants of the vehicle.

Following the incident, one suspect died, another suspect was taken into custody, and the officer was transported to an area hospital where he was treated and released.

The deceased was identified as 30-year-old CJ Adams of Nebo, with the arrest made of 39-year-old David Hylemon of Marion, charged with Accessory After the Fact of Attempted Murder, with a bond of $200,000.

The NC State Bureau of Investigation is handling the investigation into the incident.

Along with the McDowell Sheriff’s Office and SBI, the DA’s office, McDowell Emergency Management, the State Highway Patrol, and Marion Police also assisted in the case.

Lincoln County Assault

A Lincoln County woman is facing assault charges following a Sunday morning stabbing incident.

Deputies responded to the reported altercation in Iron Station and found a victim, identified as Marcus McDowell with a stab wound to the chest.

Reports say the assailant had left the scene, but returned a short time later while officers were still on the scene.

The suspect, 27-year-old Jasmine Louise McClain was charged with assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury.

She was placed in custody under a no bond hold.

McDowell was transported to an area hospital.

While McClain was being processed into the jail, reports say she blew into the face of the processing officer twice after admitting she had tested positive for COVID-19.

She was then charged with assault on a government official and given an additional 5-thousand dollar secured bond.

 

 

 

 

COVID-19 Update

27 new cases of COVID-19 in Burke County as reported Thursday afternoon by local public health officials.

Burke County is currently at 9-thousand-289 positives, with 692 cases reported as active and 9 residents remain hospitalized.

Carolinas Healthcare System Blue Ridge in Morganton learned late Wednesday that shipments of the COVID-19 vaccine were delayed because of winter storms across much of the country.

Those scheduled to get their ‘first’ dose of the vaccine Thursday were automatically rescheduled for the same time on Friday February 26^th at Freedom High School.

The delay does not affect the second dose clinic scheduled for today.

Elsewhere, McDowell County reported 11 new cases yesterday with a total now at 4-thousand-598.

Health officials report an additional virus related death in McDowell, while 188 residents are quarantined.

Couple on Run

An Alexander County couple wanted in last month’s murder of a Hickory furniture plant employee may still be in WNC – that according to investigators looking for Tangela and Eric Parker.

A commander with the US Marshal’s Office says the search for the pair extends to the entire East Coast; however, he contends they may possibly still be in the greater Hickory area.

According to reports, marshals feel there’s a good chance they’re somewhere in the mountain area, maybe even closer to the Tennessee/NC border.

The Parkers were last seen in a beige 2019 Honda CRV with NC tag FAM-5669, and so far, the vehicle has not been located.

Investigators urge area residents to continue to be on the lookout for the pair; adding that fugitives may do things such as changing or altering license plate numbers to avoid capture.

Authorities are offering a 10-thousand dollar reward for information leading to the Parker’s arrest.

Anyone having information can submit a confidential tip to 877-WANTED-2 or online at usmarshals.gov/tips.

 

Meth Found

A Marion man recently stopped for having a fictitious tag on his vehicle is found to possess drugs.

The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office reported 39-year-old Donald Ray Taylor Junior of West Tate Street was discovered with meth after he was stopped him on US 70 January 28th.

Taylor was charged with possession of methamphetamine.

Fatal Wreck

Two motorists were killed Wednesday in a crash in Iredell County shortly before Noon. 

A release from the state highway patrol says 53-year-old Bradley Koepnick of Statesville and 19-year-old Caroline Elizabeth Ervin of Claremont died when their vehicles collided on River Bend Road near Oxford School Road.

Reports show Koepnick was driving a Ford Mustang and crossed over the center line in a curve and struck Ervin driving a Toyota Camry head-on.

Both drivers died at the scene and no other vehicles were involved reports say.

The release states Koepnick and Ervin were not wearing seatbelts.

 

 

COVID-19 Update

Burke County Public Health reported Tuesday a total of 9-thousand-230 cases

of COVID-19 since the pandemic began, with 717 cases active and 9 Burke

County residents hospitalized.

McDowell County reported 22 new cases of coronavirus for a current

total of 4-thousand-569, with 207 McDowell residents in quarantine.

Caldwell County reported 37 new cases of the virus yesterday for a total  

of 8-thousand-408, with 26 people hospitalized.

Catawba County saw an additional 62 cases of COVID-19 for a total of

16-thousand-608, with 50 patients in the hospital.

Hickory Drug Arrests

A search of a Hickory residence leads the seizures of narcotics, currency,

and stolen property. Investigators with the Catawba County Sheriff’s

Office and Hickory Police on Friday, executed a search warrant at a residence

in the 300 block of 14^th Avenue SW. During the search, about 300 grams of

a liquid substance containing meth, around 13 grams of crystal meth, five

Schedule IV pills, $1,007 in U.S. currency, a stolen motor vehicle and drug

paraphernalia were seized. Two Hickory residents, 39-year-old Victor

Eugene Leatherman and 32-year-old Brittany Nicole Rogers were each

charged with multiple offenses.

McDowell Traffic Stop Arrests

Two Marion residents face charges after a vehicle stop. A deputy

stopped a Kia Optima about 10:30 p.m. January 19^th on Harmony Grove

Road, Nebo, due to both registered owners having suspended licenses.

The deputy arrested 29-year-old Cody Allen Ivers and 32-year-old Robert

Patton for possession of meth, possession with intent to sell or deliver

meth and possession of a firearm by a felon, after a search of Iver  and

the vehicle.

COVID-19 Update

According to the latest figures on Burke County’s on-line dashboard, Burke now has 9-thousand-187 positive cases of COVID-19.

771 cases are reported to be active, and 6 people are hospitalized.

McDowell County health officials report 49 new cases Monday, and two additional virus-related deaths.

McDowell’s total is now at 4-thousand-547 positives, with 185 residents in quarantine.

Caldwell County reported 39 new cases of coronavirus for a total of 8-thousand-371, with 27 Caldwell residents in the hospital.

Catawba County saw an additional 47 cases of COVID-19 for a total of 16-thousand-546 and 45 patients are hospitalized.

Bigfoot Missing

Another Bigfoot statue has been stolen – this time in McDowell County.

A Zion Hill Road resident reported last Tuesday that someone had removed the gray concrete 3-foot-tall 150 pound statue from his yard.

Anyone with information about the theft should call McDowell County detective Lambert at 652-2237.

McDowell authorities are also warning citizens about the latest phone scam – this one in which the caller poses as an Amazon security representative.

The caller identifies themselves as Amazon security, saying an account has been compromised, and further requests a credit card number to straighten the matter out.

Officials say Amazon already has your credit card info and have no reason to secure it again.

Remember do not give money or personal information to those you don’t know.

Ask for a name and number to verify the caller is legitimate.

Anyone with questions or concerns can call the McDowell Sheriff’s Office at 652-2235.

Hickory Shooting

Catawba County authorities report a man was shot and killed after he opened fire on a gathering at a Hickory event center early Valentine’s Day morning.

Officers responded to the reported incident at the Stump Event Center just after 1 Sunday morning, to find a large crowd and two people shot.

Reports say Jordan Ramseur was pronounced dead at the scene; while the other shooting victim was taken to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

An investigation indicates eye witnesses at the scene revealed that Ramseur fired a shot into a group of people gathered outside the front entrance of the center.

A shot believed to have been fired by Ramseur reportedly struck a patron in the leg.

In turn, investigators believe a patron then fired upon Ramseur.

The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office is consulting with the county’s district attorney’s office in the investigation.

No charges have been filed yet.

A Charlotte TV station reports the owner of the event center stated ALE agents warned him two weeks ago that he was violating the governor’s executive order.

 

 Rutherford Shooting

A weekend shooting in Rutherford County leaves one man injured.

Deputies responded to the reported incident at a residence on Ferry Road Sunday.

When officers arrived, they found 31-year-old Christopher Fite sitting in a truck.

Reports say Fite was suffering from a gunshot wound to the arm.

Fite was transported to Cleveland Regional Med Center where he was hospitalized overnight.

Sheriff’s office reports say Fite had gone to the home to speak with someone when he became involved in an altercation with 20-year-old Zachary Waters.

Waters is accused of shooting Fite.

No charges have yet been filed.

Detectives continue to investigate, and will consult with the Rutherford County DA’s office for any possible charges.

 

 

COVID-19 Update

Burke County Public Health now reporting 9-thousand-174 positive cases

of COVID-19 since the pandemic began. Active cases number 851, with

9 Burke individuals in the hospital.

McDowell County on Friday reported 23 new cases of coronavirus for

a total of 4-thousand-498, and 194 McDowell residents are in quarantine.

Caldwell County reported 57 new cases of the virus on Saturday, for a total

of 8-thousand-332, with 30 patients hospitalized.

Catawba County saw an increase of 32 positive cases of COVID-19 Sunday,

for a total of 16-thousand-499 and 43 Catawba residents are in the hospital.

Variant in NC

The State Department of Health and Human Services Thursday reported

the first identification of the COVID-19 variant B.1.351 in a North Carolina

resident. The variant was first detected back in October in South Africa

and in the United States in January. The variant case was identified in

a sample from an adult in the central part of the state who had not

recently traveled.

Two Arrested in Stolen Vehicle

Lincoln deputies arrested two people are reportedly fleeing officers in

a stolen vehicle. An SUV on Wednesday, accelerated on Highway 73,

fleeing a traffic stop by a deputy. The vehicle wrecked near the entrance

to Trilogy subdivision. The occupants fled on foot, and were later taken

into custody in the subdivision. Multiple charges were placed on Chase

De’Carlo Bruton of Charlotte and Emanuel Lamont Allen of Norwood.

Their SUV had been stolen from Albemarle. Assisting the Lincoln Sheriff’s

Office, were K-9’s from the Lincolnton Police Department, the Catawba

County Sheriff’s Office, and Lincoln Sheriff’s Office Drone team.

 

COVID-19 Update

Burke County added 40 positive cases of COVID-19 to its total Wednesday, now amounting to 9-thousand-45.

932 cases remain active, and 8 residents are hospitalized.

McDowell County reported 12 new positive cases yesterday, bringing the total to 4-thousand-450.

228 residents in McDowell remain quarantined.

Caldwell County reported 37 new cases for a total of 8-thousand-194, with 29 patients hospitalized.

Catawba County added 94 virus cases for a total of 16-thousand-328 and 51 people are in the hospital.

Those 65 and older interested in receiving the vaccine are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the community call center in Burke County; 828-358-4454.

Health officials continue to ask for patience and understanding during the vaccine distribution, stating there remains more demand for the vaccine than there is supply.

Group 3 Vaccines

Educators will soon be first in line for COVID-19 vaccinations as Group 3 begins in two weeks. 

Governor Cooper announced that starting February 24^th teachers, school staff, and childcare providers in pre-kindergarten through 12^th grade will be eligible to receive the vaccine.

The group includes custodians, bus drivers, and any other school staff.

In a news release from Burke County Public Health Wednesday, officials report frontline essential workers will be eligible for the vaccine beginning March 10^th; however, local officials expect further clarification as to the definition of a frontline essential worker before scheduling appointments for the vaccine.

The vaccine go-ahead for the schools comes as Cooper and NC Schools Superintendent Catherine Truitt has urged school districts across the state to reopen for in-person instruction.

Cooper along with state health and education leaders sent a letter to the state’s local school board members and superintendents encouraging the return to the classroom.

Reports say that students and teachers who are at risk for COVID-19 can still choose to learn remotely.

On Tuesday, NC health officials reported its smallest single-day case increase since late December.

Hospitalizations are also reported to be at their lowest since mid-December.

Sex Charges

A Lincoln County man has been charged with child sexual assault.

On January 13^th, Lincoln detectives received a report of a sexual assault of a child.

Reports say the child is related to the suspect and was interviewed at the Lincoln Child Advocacy Center where the alleged assaults were disclosed.

40-year-old Scott Douglas Zinn Junior of Denver has been charged with one felony count each of statutory rape of a child, statutory sexual offense, indecent liberties with a child, and child abuse involving a sexual act.

Zinn was arrested Wednesday, and is in custody under a 40-thousand dollar secured bond.

 

He is scheduled to make a first appearance in Lincoln district court Thursday.

 

 

 COVID-19 Update 

Burke County has now suffered 127 deaths due to COVID-19 since March 2020; as local public health officials reported three additional virus deaths Tuesday.

The individuals – two in their 70’s and one in their 80’s were all hospitalized, but later died from COVID-19 complications.

Burke officials further reported 34 new positive cases yesterday, with a case total now amounting to 9-thousand-5 positives.

Active cases in Burke amount to 932, and 8 residents remain hospitalized.

McDowell County public health reported 28 new positive cases, with a case total of 4-thousand-438.

216 individuals are in quarantine.

Caldwell County reported 24 cases of the virus for a total of 8-thousand-157 and 31 people are in the hospital.

In Catawba County, 61 new cases of COVID-19, for a total of 16-thousand-234 and 98 patients are hospitalized.

Meanwhile, the State Department of Health and Human services reported Tuesday that more than 10-thousand North Carolinians have died from the virus.

North Carolina also surpassed 800-thousand total cases.

State health officials say the goal is to vaccinate as many people as quickly and equitably as possible.

As of yesterday, NC had administered more than 1-point-4 doses of the vaccine.

Break In Suspect Caught

A Nebo man is charged after McDowell County deputies find him at the scene of a break-in.

On February 2^nd, officers were called to a home on Stacy Hill Road where the homeowner told law enforcement he saw someone in his outbuilding.

Deputies discovered 35-year-old Arvil Lee James Morgan of Dysartsville Road had broken into the building along with a vehicle at the residence.

Morgan reportedly attempted to remove an air compressor, a radio, and clothing.

All of the items were recovered.

Shooting Suspect Found

A suspect wanted in a McDowell County weekend shooting has been apprehended. 

25-year-old Cody Thomas Brown was wanted in connection with Sunday’s shooting incident that occurred on Owl Hollow Road.

A 29-year-old man was reported to have sustained a gunshot wound to the leg.

Brown will be charged with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury.

The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office thanks the public for assisting in the case.

Reward Upped

The reward has increased for an ‘armed and dangerous’ couple wanted for a deadly shooting in Hickory several week ago.

The US Marshal’s Office has increased the reward to 10-thousand dollars for information leading to the arrests of 49-year-old Tangela Parker, and her husband 61-year-old Eric Parker.

The pair is being sought after in the shooting death of 51-year-old Phelifia Marlow.

Reports say the shooting occurred inside TCS Designs in Hickory after Marlow and Tangela Parker became involved in an argument.

A Charlotte news outlet reports searches from the air are being performed in Caldwell County in the Wilson Creek area, as investigators report Tangela’s phone was found in Collettsville.

Tangela is wanted for first-degree murder, while her husband Eric is wanted for accessory after the fact to first-degree murder.

Anyone having information regarding the Parker’s location should call Hickory Police at 828-328-5551 or 877-WANTED.

 

 

 COVID-19 Update

Two additional COVID-19 related deaths Monday in Burke County as reported by public health officials, bringing the number of virus deaths to 124.

Officials say the individuals were both in their 80’s, were not hospitalized, but later died from virus related complications.

103 new positive cases were added to Burke’s total over the weekend; that number now at 8-thousand-971.

956 cases are reported as active, and 11 local residents are hospitalized.

In McDowell County, 48 positive cases were reported Monday.

Their total is now 4-thousand-410, with 188 residents still quarantined.

Caldwell County reported 43 new cases of coronavirus on Monday for a current total of 8-thousand-133, with 33 patients hospitalized.

In Catawba County, 79 new cases of the virus for a total of 16-thousand-173 and 94 people are in the hospital.

In the meantime, Greenway Public Transportation is assisting the public with free transportation to receive COVID-19 vaccinations.

In order to get to and from the vaccination sites in Burke, Alexander, Caldwell, and Catawba counties, Greenway Transport has several options – demand response, fixed route, and flex route services.

For more information about scheduling, routes, and service times call Greenway

Transportation at 828-464-9444.

BCPS Awards

The NC School Public Relations Association has honored Burke County Public Schools for excellence in communications.

Burke Schools earned a total of 14 Blue Ribbon awards for outstanding and effective communication.

The association presented the awards during a virtual ceremony last Friday.

A news release states this is the sixth year in a row that Burke County Public Schools have received statewide recognition for outstanding work in school public relations through the Blue Ribbon Awards program.

Shooting Suspect

A Marion man is being sought by authorities for his involvement in a Sunday night shooting in McDowell County.

25-year-old Cody Thomas Brown of Hitt Park Drive is wanted for assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury.

Just before 10:30 Sunday night, officers were called to Owl Hollow Road where they found a 29-year-old man in the yard with a gunshot wound to the leg.

Reports say witnesses at the scene identified Brown as the shooter, further stated he had left the scene in his vehicle following the shooting.

Authorities believe Brown is driving a blue 2013 four door Ford Focus with NC tag FDV-3259.

Anyone having information about Brown’s whereabouts should call McDowell detective Hicks at 652-2237.

Shelby Shooting Suspect

Shelby Police are looking for a Charlotte man wanted in connection with a shooting that left a mother and daughter injured last week.

Zaire Ali Muhammad is being sought for two counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury and discharging of weapon into occupied property.

Investigators suspect Muhammad shot 35-year-old Kenya Youngblood and her 16-year-old daughter at a Shelby residence last Wednesday night.

Authorities believe the incident began as an online disagreement between two teenagers.

Anyone having information about Muhammad’s location should call the Shelby Police at 704-484-6845.

Lincolnton Fatal

A head-on collision in Lincoln County Sunday evening claimed the lives of two motorists.

Just after 6 o'clock, troopers reported that a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro was traveling south on Mount Zion Church Road when the driver crossed the center line and crashed into a 2011 Nissan Altima.

A third vehicle, a 2016 Nissan SUV then collided into the Altima.

The driver of the Camaro, 21-year-old Cooper Snipes was airlifted to a Charlotte hospital where he later died from his injuries.

86-year-old Mahlon Strope was the driver of the Altima and reports say he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the SUV was transported to an area hospital, and is expected to be okay.

Troopers say excessive speed of the Camaro appears to be a contributing factor in the wreck.

 

 

 

 

 COVID-19 Update

Burke County Public Health reported another COVID-related death Friday, with a total now of 122 Burke residents having died from the virus during the pandemic.

A news release says the individual was in their 80’s, was hospitalized; but later died from virus related complications.

33 new positive cases were reported in Burke County Friday afternoon.

Burke is currently at 8-thousand-868 cases, while 1-thousand-45 cases are reported to be active and 10 residents remain hospitalized.

McDowell County public health reported 19 new positive cases of the virus, and two additional deaths Friday.

McDowell’s total cases amount to 4-thousand-362, with 207 residents still in quarantine.

Caldwell County reported 20 new cases of coronavirus Friday, for a total of 8-thousand-90 and 27 people are in the hospital.

On Sunday, Catawba County saw an increase of 58 additional cases of COVID-19 for a total of 16-thousand-94, with 92 patients hospitalized.

NC Drop in Flu

North Carolinians have protected themselves and others from the flu along with COVID-19 by taking preventive measures such as wearing a mask, staying 6 feet apart, and washing hands or using hand sanitizer often.

These practices have helped dramatically reduce the spread of the flu and other respiratory illnesses across the state – that according to data from the state’s department of health and human services.

NC has seen very low levels of influenza this year, while only four deaths from flu have been reported so far this season, compared to 186 deaths from flu last season.

State officials say the flu can place a major strain on the healthcare system causing between 9 million and 45 million illnesses throughout the US yearly.

Reductions in flu and other respiratory viruses have freed up more capacity for hospitals and staff to treat COVID-19 cases.

Old Fort Fire

A plant worker in Old Fort was seriously injured Thursday as the result of a propane-involved flash fire.

Emergency personnel were called to the Auria plant just after 12 noon at 1506 East Main Street.

Reports say a contractor was working on a vaporizer outside the facility when the incident occurred.

The victim was reported to be in serious condition and was airlifted to Wake Forest Baptist Med Center in Winston Salem.

Originally named Collins and Aikman, the Old Fort plant later became International Automotive Components in 2007, and in 2017 the name was changed to Auria when it came under new ownership.

Mulch Sale

Just in time for spring planting, the City of Hickory will soon begin its mulch sale.

The mulch will be available Friday and Saturday February 12^th and 13^th .

Hickory’s yard waste facility hours are 8 am until 1 pm on Fridays and Saturdays next weekend beginning February 12^th.

The facility is located on Cloninger Mill Road off NC 127 near the bridge that crosses Lake Hickory.

The hours will remain the same until all of the mulch is gone.

For more information, call Hickory Public Services at 828-323-7500.

 

 COVID-19 Update

Another Burke County resident has died with COVID-19, bringing the number of local deaths from the virus to 121.

A news release says the individual was in their 80’s, was hospitalized, but later died from virus related complications.

Public Health officials Thursday afternoon reported 50 new cases in Burke County, with a total of positives amounting to 8-thousand-835.

1-thousand-18 cases are active, and 10 Burke County residents are now hospitalized.

In McDowell County, health officials reported 3 additional COVID-19 deaths Thursday and 20 new positives.

McDowell County has now had 67 residents to die from the virus, with a total of cases at 4-thousand-343.

218 McDowell individuals are in quarantine.

Caldwell County reported four additional COVID-19 related deaths bringing the county's total to 119. New cases of coronavirus numbered 25 for a total of 8-thousand-70 with 27 people in the hospital.

Catawba County saw an increase of 93 additional cases of the virus for a current total of 15-thousand-856, with 93 patients hospitalized.

McLeod Retires

Burke County Health Director Rebecca McLeod announced her upcoming retirement in a news release Thursday afternoon.

After 34 years of service with Burke Public Health, McLeod will retire July 1st.

McLeod began her career in Cleveland County, before accepting a position in Burke.

She has been the Burke County Public Health Director for the past 9 years.

Shelby Shooting

An argument between two teenagers on social media Wednesday evening in Shelby ended with the shooting of a mother and daughter.

Police reports say the shooting happened just before 9 at a Gold Street residence.

35-year-old Kenya Youngblood was discovered by first responders with several gunshot wounds to her lower body, while her 16-year-old daughter suffered a wound to her leg.

Investigators report the shooting may have stemmed from an online disagreement between the teen and another girl.

As the two were attempting to settle the matter in person, reports say Youngblood tried to intervene.

Shots reportedly came from the crowd surrounding those arguing – phone videos captured the shots, but not the shooter’s face.

No arrests have been made, and the case remains under investigation.

The victims were transported to Atrium Health Cleveland and are expected to be okay.

 

 

 

 COVID-19 Update

50 new cases of COVID-19 Wednesday as reported by Burke County Public Health, bringing the county’s total of positives to 8-thousand-785.

1-thousand-43 cases are reported to be active, while the number of Burke hospitalizations are down to 8.

McDowell County health officials report 19 new cases, with a total of 4-thousand-323 positives.

280 McDowell residents remain quarantined.

Caldwell County reported 30 new cases of COVID-19 yesterday for a current total of 8-thousand-45, with 30 patients hospitalized.

Catawba County saw an increase of 83 additional cases of coronavirus Wednesday, for a total of 15-thousand-763, and 95 people are in the hospital.

Most Wanted Arrest

A Morganton man who had been on the Burke County Sheriff’s Office ‘Most Wanted’ was arrested last week at a residence in eastern Burke County.

32-year-old Gregory Lee Barus  of 5186 Mountain View Boulevard was reportedly hiding at a residence off Mounira Avenue where officers arrested him without incident on January 28th.

Barus was served with two felony warrants for possession of stolen property.

He was placed in the Burke County Jail under a 20-thousand dollar bond.

Barus is also under investigation for other possible larceny cases involving stolen motor vehicles and property in Burke and surrounding counties.

Drug Raid

Two people face charges after authorities in McDowell County raid a Scotts Cove Drive residence as part of an ongoing drug investigation.

25-year-old Kayla Michelle Bates of Nebo is charged with numerous drug offenses, while 33-year-old Jonathan Trey Sloan of Marion is charged with meth possession, and possession of marijuana.

On January 14^th, McDowell deputies, Marion Police and state SBI agents searched Bates home while investigating possible drug activity at the residence.

Their search turned up 21 grams of marijuana, and one-half gram of meth, along with US currency.

Car Thief

A Lenoir man driving a stolen car containing drugs was arrested by Burke County deputies.

On January 28^th, officers responded to the Dollar General on Burke Street in regard to a suspicious vehicle.

Once officers determined the vehicle had been stolen out of McDowell County, they made contact with 37-year-old Justin Ryan Day inside the store.

Day was taken into custody for possession of a stolen motor vehicle.

A search of the vehicle turned up methamphetamine.

Day was then charged with possession of a schedule two controlled substance.

He was held at the Burke County jail under a 20-thousand dollar secured bond.

Day’s court date is set or February 19^th.

McDowell Winds

McDowell County withstood strong winds on Tuesday that brought down trees and a sign down onto a local motel.

Reports say the McDowell 911 Center had multiple calls for service involving downed trees and power lines.

There was a report of a fallen tree on a residence inside the Hankins Village mobile home park; however, no injuries were reported.

And a large sign fell onto a section of the Sportsman Inn next to Hankins Road, causing the closure of one section of the motel.

 Areas affected, besides the Hankins area, include PG, Marion, Glenwood, and Nebo.

 

 

 

 

 

 

COVID-19 Update

Burke County Public Health reported 41 new cases of COVID-19 Tuesday,

for a total of 8-thousand-735. Current active cases total 1-thousand-50

with 11 Burke residents hospitalized.

McDowell County reported 2 COVID-19 related deaths bring the county’s

total to 64. New positive cases numbered 24 for a total of 4-thousand-304

and 261 McDowell residents are in quarantine.

Caldwell County saw an increase of 8 cases of coronavirus for a current total

of 8-thousand-15 and 31 people are in the hospital.

Catawba County reported 61 new cases of COVID for a total of 15-thousand-680

with 117 patients hospitalized.

ASU Basketball Paused

ASU men’s basketball has paused all team activities. Four positive

COVID-19 cases have been identified among students associated with

the team, three of which are players. All are in isolation and close

contacts, who have been identified through contact tracing, are in

quarantine.

Woman Located  

Lincoln County Sheriff’s detectives have located a woman who had

been missing for about two weeks. Brittany Orgeron contacted the

investigating officer who confirmed that she is safe and at a safe

location. The Sheriff’s Office thanks the public for their help in

bringing this incident to a successful close.

Courthouse Bomb Threat

A bomb threat caused the Burke County Courthouse to be evacuated yesterday. Reports indicate that someone called said that either be a bomb go off or there would be a "big fight". The building was then evacuated. Authorities searched the courthouse and said that they didn't find anything. People were allowed to return inside a couple of hours later.

Punxsutawney Phil  2/2/21 Morning

Direct from Gobber’s Knob, for the 135^th time, Punxsutawney Phil

was awakened this morning to see whether it will be an early spring

or more winter ahead. Phil cast his shadow, meaning 6 more weeks

of winter.

COVID-19 Update

Since the last news release issued last Thursday, Burke County Public Health on Thursday reported 174 new positive cases of COVID-19.

Burke County is currently at 8-thousand-689 positives; 1-thousand-102 cases are reported to be active, and 10 residents are hospitalized.

Health officials report the increase in cases from last week is a result of a backlog retrieved from the state’s electronic disease surveillance system.

Yesterday’s news release also says the local health department and Carolinas Healthcare System Blue Ridge were notified to expect a reduced amount of vaccine for the next three weeks.

The health department will only receive 200 first doses, while the hospital will only receive 500 initial doses – forcing vaccine appointments to fill up quickly.

Officials say those 65 and older wanting the vaccine should call the Community Call Center at 358-4454 and keep calling until you’re able to get through.

Officials also ask that you NOT call the health department to schedule an appointment.

Meanwhile, McDowell County health officials reported 60 new cases Monday with a total of 4-thousand-280 positive cases, with reports too of an additional death.

238 McDowell residents remain quarantined.

Caldwell County reported 35 new cases of coronavirus for a total of 8-thousand-007 with 30 patients hospitalized.

Catawba County saw an increase of 133 cases of COVID for a total 0f 15-thousand-619 and 119 people are in the hospital.

Fatal Wreck

A head-on collision on NC 181 Sunday claimed the lives of two Morganton residents.

Highway Patrol reports say 84-year-old Glenda Brittain Kelly was traveling south in a Chevrolet mini-van when she crossed the center line striking a Kia passenger car just after 6:15 p.m.

Kelly was reportedly pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Kia, 58-year-old Daphne Kincaid Beam was transported to Carolinas Healthcare Blue Ridge Morganton where she later died, reports say.

Troopers do not know what caused Kelly to cross the center line, but do not suspect impairment.

Flare Gun Injury

A Caldwell County teenager remains in critical condition, while another teen faces charges following a shooting involving a flare gun.

Caldwell deputies say the 15-year-old injured boy is recovering after 18-year-old Timothy Sanders reportedly fired a flare gun into his mouth.

Officers say the injured teen’s condition is preventing them from learning more about what happened.

Reports say he has already undergone several surgeries at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill.

Sanders has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury.

Detectives continue to work to determine the motive behind the shooting.

Fourth Shooting Arrest

A fourth suspect has been arrested in an Old Fort shooting that took place on New Year’s Day.

McDowell County deputies were called to the January 1^st shooting call around 1:40 am on Harlowe Noblitt Road.

20-year-old Jacob Levi Hensley of BR Drive Marion has been charged with going armed into the terror of the public, disorderly conduct, and assault by pointing a gun.

Reports say Hensley and three others previously arrested became involved in a altercation with the victim.

Hensley fired a shot from a handgun, reports say, and the others vandalized the victim’s vehicle.

CityWalk Progress

The first of two pedestrian and biking bridges planned along Hickory's City Walk has been completed.

Mayor Hank Guess and Councilwoman Jill Patton noted the opening of the bridge over Third Street NW just west of Union Square in Facebook posts on Friday.

Hickory Communications Specialist Sarah Killian said no part of the pedestrian and biking path, which is funded through the $40 million bond referendum, will officially open until all sections are finished.

Barricades were removed from the Third Street pedestrian bridge but it still has some remaining items to be completed officials report.

Although there may be access to the City Walk, it will not be officially open until all work is completed.

The city expects the trail to be finished by late this spring. 

Among the items that remain incomplete include the second pedestrian bridge farther east over N.C. 127, a traffic circle and additional sections of sidewalk. 

Neill Grading & Construction Co. has a $14.3 million contract with the city to complete the work. 

Sex Charges

A Rutherfordton man is charged with numerous sex offenses against minors dating back to the 1980’s.

According to reports, 85-year-old Claude Linden Keever faces charges in both Polk and Rutherford Counties.

In Polk County, Keever is charged with two counts of felony indecent liberties with a child and one count of first-degree statutory sex offense.

He is scheduled to appear in Polk County court Monday February 22^nd.

In Rutherford County, Keever is charged with seven counts of felony indecent liberties with a child.

His next court appearance in Rutherford is scheduled for March 24^th.

The investigation continues involving the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and the NC State Bureau of Investigation.

 

 

 

 

 

COVID-19

Burke County Public Health reported five additional COVID-19 related deaths on Friday. One individual was in their 50's, two in the 70's, one in their 80's and one in their 90's. Total active cases of the virus total 1-thousand-185, 16 hospitalizations.

McDowell County reported 34 new cases of coronavirus for a total of 4-thousand-220 and 295 McDowell residents are in quarantine.

Caldwell County Saturday reported 8 new cases of COVID-19 for a total of 7-thousand-971 with 33 people in the hospital.

On Sunday, Catawba County saw an increase of 44 cases of coronavirus for a current total of 15-thousand-486, and 115 patients hospitalized.

Last week NC reported administering 99-percent of its first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, and as of Friday morning the CDC ranks the state as 6^th in the nation for total doses administered.

NC also ranks 12^th for ‘first’ doses administered per 100-thousand people and 17^th for ‘total’ doses administered per 100-thousand people.

The state is currently vaccinating people in Groups 1 and 2 which includes health care workers, long term care staff and residents, and people 65 and older.

Until the country begins to get ahead of the pandemic, the CDC says everyone should continue to wear a mask, wait at least six feet apart, and wash hands often.

Meth Charges

Two men face drug charges following a McDowell County traffic stop.

On January 13^th, McDowell Sheriff's deputies stopped a vehicle on Deer Park Road for multiple traffic violations.

The driver was identified as 44-year-old Brandon Kyle McNeil of Marion, and his passenger 47-year-old Scott Dale Honeycutt of Nebo.

A search of the vehicle and suspects reportedly turned up over 8 grams of meth and drug paraphernalia.

McNeil was charged with driving while license revoked, displaying a fictitious tag, and other drug possession offenses.

Honeycutt was charged with meth possession, possession with intent to sell or deliver meth, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Morganton House Fire

An early Saturday morning fire is under investigation by Morganton

Public Safety. Fire units were dispatched to 112 Woodcliff Drive, where

The one story residence was fully involved and the fire threatening

Several vehicles in the driveway. Two occupants of the fire were able

To escape and were treated by Burke County EMS for minor burns and

Smoke inhalation. Agencies assisting Public Safety and EMS, included

Duke Energy, Triple Community Fire Department, City of Morganton

Development and Design along with the American Red Cross.