Authorities are searching for an 18‑year‑old wanted in a Whiteville homicide who has been linked to a Roanoke Rapids double killing; an alleged accomplice has been arrested.

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.

Gov. Josh Stein signed four bills in Raleigh addressing human trafficking, police staffing and protections for seniors' finances. SB 595's tax changes drew industry pushback.

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.

Triangle shelters are urgently seeking short-term foster homes as a near-record heat wave approaches the July Fourth weekend.

U.S. District Judge Catherine Eagles granted summary judgment to UNC in Larry Chavis' suit, saying teaching‑evaluation findings justified his 2024 non‑renewal.

CarolinaEast struck a short-term pact with UnitedHealthcare to remain in-network through Dec. 31; Blue Cross Medicare Advantage members face out-of-network hospital coverage starting Wednesday.

A Wilson man was sentenced to 20–25 years after entering an Alford plea in his aunt’s Nov. 5, 2024 shooting death. Court reporting cited an autopsy and family pleas for treatment.

Durham Rescue Mission activated Operation Cool Shelter as heat advisories blanket the Triangle, offering air-conditioned space, meals, showers and outreach to people at risk.

A 35‑page roadmap lays out 17 goals to protect residents, upskill workers and modernize state services as North Carolina positions itself for an AI era.

Lawmakers approved funds and 54 staffing lines for the North Carolina Zoo’s 12.5‑acre Asia Continent, but zoo leaders warn more hires may be needed before it opens.

Photos posted June 29 show a drone closing on a wild horse in Corolla. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund and Currituck County say operators must give the herd at least 50 feet of space.

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.