Permits show Jaggers planning a drive‑thru at 985 Concord Parkway South, marking a new Texas Roadhouse‑owned burger shop for Concord. No opening date has been announced.

A Charlotte mother hit the top progressive level in the NC digital game and took home about $509K after taxes; she plans a family trip to Disney World.

Funkheizer's Diner has opened in Mooresville with all‑day breakfast, four‑ounce smash burgers and a full bar. Owner Mel Funk plans to rebrand nearby Fresh Egg locations and expand into Huntersville soon.

Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell has asked the NC SBI to review Mooresville Police after officers assisted on a 2025 search warrant outside town limits. The move raises questions about jurisdiction and transparency.

Huntersville firefighters say a brush fire off Elmira Avenue was traced to fireworks as dry conditions raise the risk of outside blazes. Officials urge caution.

A juvenile was involved in an accidental shooting at the Kris Lang Sports Complex in Belmont; no one was hurt and the owner has announced new safety rules while police investigate.

App State is running three free, accelerated Child Care Academies in Boone, Morganton and Hickory to train and certify new early-education staff. The short programs pair in-person sessions with online modules.

A shooting at a Beard Street home in Salisbury killed one person and hospitalized two, police said.

A 61-year-old Rowan County man is jailed after a child under 13 disclosed abuse to parents. Investigators say surveillance footage seized at his home is key evidence.

A crash and fuel spill on I-85 North at Exit 30 blocked two right lanes Thursday, causing delays in Charlotte. NCDOT is monitoring the scene.

Nashville‑born LadyBird Taco is taking over the former Lebowski’s in Dilworth and says it will bring breakfast tacos, house‑made queso and an all‑day coffee program this spring. Permits show painted signage that will read “tacos, queso, and coffee.”

A Cornelius man pleaded guilty to third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and received supervised release and a 30-year sex-offender registration instead of active prison time. Prosecutors say investigators found videos and messages on seized devices.

Queens University clinched its first NCAA Tournament berth after an overtime ASUN title; the Royals draw Purdue in the first round and fans are planning watch parties in Charlotte.