About 40,000 year‑round students returned to Wake County schools on July 7 as the district put a new five‑step Standard Response Protocol into effect.

Mungo Homes bought a 35-acre Fuquay-Varina site and plans 119 homes at Arbor Preserve, a mixed townhome and single-family community along the 540 loop.

NWS Raleigh warned of 60 mph gusts and possible roof and tree damage across parts of the Piedmont. The advisory named towns from Laurinburg to Rockingham and included a stretch of I‑73.

A Raleigh vape shop owner says a hammer-wielding thief smashed in and fled with about $30,000 in THC flower. Police are investigating and asking the public for surveillance footage.

Two adults were injured after a fight among teens escalated into gunfire at Brier Creek Commons' July 4 block party; police say the investigation is ongoing.

Lawmakers’ budget would leave Wake County prosecutors well below recommended staffing, officials warn — a gap they say could stretch case timelines for victims and slow complex probes.

Greensboro homicide detectives charged two people after Douglas Keith Petty — who was reported missing — was found dead; both suspects were already in Randolph County custody.

Lawmakers approved a roughly $34B budget on July 2 that pairs teacher and state‑worker raises with tax changes. Gov. Josh Stein now has 10 days to act.

A former Orange High School counselor turned herself in July 2, accused of indecent liberties and sexual exploitation; she resigned from the district on June 12. The investigation is ongoing.

Durham fire inspectors visited roadside fireworks tents ahead of July Fourth, warning that aerials like bottle rockets and Roman candles are illegal and dangerous. Officials point to state law and injury data as reasons to stick with pro displays.

Climate Central warns 2026 World Cup host stadiums are recording more extreme June–July heat, heightening risks for players and fans. Raleigh’s Moore Square will host free watch parties with added shade and water.

Postino is coming to University Place in Chapel Hill with indoor dining, a large patio and a rotating wine-and-shared-plates menu; no opening date yet.

NC wildlife officials rolled out early-season hunts and new carcass-disposal rules aimed at slowing chronic wasting disease in affected counties. Hunters are being asked to test and to change how they handle deer remains.