The SC Forestry Commission has ordered a statewide burn ban effective 4 p.m. March 27 as low humidity and gusty winds raise wildfire risk. The ban covers most outdoor fires.

A Taylorsville man faces child-exploitation and drug charges after an Alexander County sheriff's office release.

A gun was found in a student's backpack at Westwood Elementary; two West Jefferson parents face weapons charges and have been released on bond.

Repeated gunfire in a Lancaster neighborhood shattered windows, damaged cars and left a bystander hurt. Neighbors say the shootings have become routine and are demanding answers.

A rebuilt stretch of U.S. 64/74A reopened Thursday, restoring direct access to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure about 18 months after Hurricane Helene. Temporary signals will control one‑lane traffic while crews finish stabilization.

A student at Stoney Creek Elementary was impaled by a pencil left on a chair during a prank; medics responded and the district alerted families, officials say.

Weddington High was evacuated after a reported threat; students and staff were moved to the football stadium while law enforcement investigated. The district says the move was an evacuation, not a lockdown.

CLT is collecting grocery and gas gift cards to support TSA officers working without pay amid the DHS funding lapse. Drop boxes and a community partner are accepting $10 and $20 cards.

Leasing offices at two UNC Charlotte‑area student complexes closed without notice this week; a new manager says leases will remain unchanged. Tenants are seeking legal advice and clarity on payments.

Honeywell will invest roughly $500M to modernize military‑tech production under a Pentagon framework; Charlotte could see supply‑chain and job effects depending on where work lands.

Charlotte Council approved a contested rezoning for senior affordable housing behind Calvary Church, prompting neighbor fears about traffic, services and concentrated development. City documents show commitments for sidewalks and long-term affordability, but funding is still required.

Statesville will cut the ribbon on a new three-level terminal Thursday at 2 p.m., a project officials say will expand passenger services and business space.

A person was killed in a stabbing on Maple Shade Lane near Sardis Road North in southeast Charlotte. Investigators are on scene and ask anyone with information to contact CMPD.