A Pineville jeweler lost nearly $300,000 after a cash‑swap scam using prop‑style counterfeit bills; one suspect, Robert Elliott III, pleaded guilty on March 26, 2026.

A bathroom fire at Ashbrook High in Gastonia forced a midday evacuation but caused no injuries. Police contained the blaze quickly and are asking for tips.

Hot Friday ahead with highs near 88°F. Cool, dry weekend with gusty winds and fire‑weather concerns.

CMPD says a woman suffered non-life-threatening injuries in a March 18 assault near S. Sharon Amity Road; detectives are seeking tips and video.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg put a one-year, $347,592 PowerSchool contract on the board agenda for hiring and evaluation tools even after the vendor’s December 2024 data breach. The deal would leave grades and attendance on Infinite Campus.

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.

A 22‑year‑old was arrested in York County after a March 24 hit‑and‑run in Kings Mountain that killed an 83‑year‑old man.

A loaded .380 pistol and a knife were seized from a 5-year-old’s backpack at Harrisburg Elementary in Indian Land; deputies are investigating.

Caldwell County deputies say a traffic stop in Granite Falls turned up about 40 grams of meth; two people were arrested and are being held without bond.

Charlotte crews have fought 25 brush fires in 10 days, three reaching buildings. Officials cite dry, windy conditions and say yard‑waste burning is prohibited.

Robeson County investigators linked two people to the body of a 36-year-old found in a car near Parkton; one is jailed and another is being sought as the probe continues.

Dr. David Zaas will return to lead Duke University Health System on May 1, 2026, following a national search. The hire comes after last year’s leadership change at DUHS.

CMPD says Luis Daniel Gutierrez Mora died after an early-morning shooting near Albemarle Road; homicide detectives are asking the public for tips.