Latest news with #News&Observer
International Business Times
11-07-2025
- International Business Times
Jacksonville Woman Lures, Kills Man Who Had Been Sexually Grooming Her Since She was 8 Years Old
A 21-year-old Jacksonville woman accused of killing a man alleges she was sexually groomed by the victim since when she was eight years old, according to police. Journee McGrew was arrested for the murder of 41-year-old Waduta Woodley, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said in a recent Facebook post. A Note That Read 'PEDO Touches Children' was Left on Woodley's Chest Police responded to McGrew's apartment in the early hours of last Wednesday, over reports of a "dispute," according to the arrest report. When they arrived, police found Woodley lying in front of the apartment, "suffering from multiple blunt force injuries the head and face," the report read. A metal hammer with blood on the handle was found during a search of the apartment, police say. A note on Woodley's chest read, "PEDO Touches Children," according to the report. McGrew Said Woodley Came to Her Place and 'Demanded That She Have Sex with Him' But She Refused and Hit Him When He Became Physical Police interviewed McGrew's father, who was identified in the report as Victor Owens Sr., and her brother, Victor Owens Jr. They drove to McGrew's apartment to check on her after she tried to call Owens Sr.'s wife, according to the arrest report. The News & Observer reported about a telephonic conversation that took place between the father and daughter while driving to her apartment. During the call, police say McGrew claimed Woodley came to her place and "demanded that she have sex with him." McGrew told her dad she said no to his demands, and claimed Woodley then grabbed her, prompting her to hit him with a hammer, according to police. Owens Sr. told police his daughter told him, "I think he's dead, Daddy." McGrew's dad then told her to call the police, and then he called the cops himself, according to authorities. McGrew Lured Woodley to the Apartment by Sending Him a Sexual Text and Inviting Him Home When interviewed by police, McGrew said Woodley had been sexually grooming her since she was eight years old, The News & Observer reported, citing police. She said a few hours before Woodley's death, she sent him a sexual text and invited him over to have sex, according to the he came over and later pressured her to have sex, she asked him to leave, McGrew told police. She hid a metal hammer behind her back as she walked him out of her apartment, and then, when he turned toward her at the door and wrapped his arms around her aggressively, McGrew told police. A fight between the two ensued, which ended in Woodley's death, according to authorities. McGrew was charged with second-degree murder and tampering with evidence.
Hindustan Times
10-07-2025
- Climate
- Hindustan Times
Mebane water shortage: Over 20,000 residents could lose drinking water in 48 hours after Tropical Storm Chantal
Over 20,000 residents in Mebane, North Carolina, may lose access to clean drinking water in just two days. The city officials raised an alarm due to Tropical Storm Chantal, which caused flooding in the surrounding areas and blocked roads, reported the News & Observer. Following Tropical Storm Chantal, Mebane, NC, is experiencing a critical water shortage, with supplies expected to last only two days.(Representative Image: Unsplash ) Also Read: Massachusetts weather radar: Flash flood warning issued in these 6 counties- Here's what we know Mebane water shortage Kelly Hunter, City representative, told Newsweek on Wednesday that, 'The city currently has two days of drinking water left at current usage.' To assist residents, the city established two water distribution locations, Mebane Arts and Community Center and Mebane Fire Station 2. The Fire Station operates from 8:30 am to 5 pm local time during weekdays, whereas the Arts Center is open until 8 pm on Wednesdays. Hunter stated that "numerous organizations and individuals are contributing to ensure the city does not worry about depleting its bottled water supply at this moment." Also Read: Jersey City fire: Building destroyed, at least 6 firefighters injured as huge blaze erupts in New Jersey North Carolina floods harm water facilities Tropical Storm Chantal brought intense rainfall to central North Carolina. In Durham, rising waters necessitated water rescues along the Eno River. According to the News & Observer, transporting repair equipment and water tankers has been a significant challenge due to more than 50 road closures. The Graham-Mebane Water Treatment Plant is currently not in operation, and there is no scheduled timeline for its return. Also read: What is Measles and how to protect yourself: Everything you need to know about the 2025 outbreak Health and safety measures issued amid water shortage The authorities have advised residents to follow boil-water advisories and practice water conservation. Tips for remaining safe during floods have been published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Health officials have warned of the risks posed by contaminated water that has been left untreated. Mebane's Mayor Ed Hooks said, "Our city is working around the clock to restore water service and ensure families have the resources they need..' 'As counties across central North Carolina continue to recover, we will be there to support them." Governor Josh Stein stated. Officials are overseeing the Mebane water deficiency and managing urgent repairs. With additional rain expected, complete recovery may require some time. The flood warning for North Carolina is still active. FAQs 1. Why is there a water shortage in Mebane? Flooding from Tropical Storm Chantal damaged water systems and contaminated supplies. 2. How long will water last? The water will last less than two days if current usage continues. 3. Is tap water safe? No. Follow boil-water advisories.
Newsweek
09-07-2025
- Climate
- Newsweek
20,000 People at Risk of Losing Drinking Water Within Two Days
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Officials in Mebane, North Carolina, are warning that the city has less than two days' supply of clean drinking water and could put more than 20,000 residents at risk in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Chantal. Why It Matters Mebane's rapidly dwindling drinking water supply underscored the broad and lasting effects of Chantal on central North Carolina communities. The storm claimed at least six lives in the region, closed more than 50 roads and left neighborhoods submerged, resulting in emergency rescues, according to the News & Observer. Access to clean water became a dire issue as floodwaters contaminated reservoirs and overwhelmed water plants. State and local officials say that unless water usage drops and infrastructure damage is quickly repaired, the town could face taps running dry within 48 hours. Chairs, umbrellas and a larger garbage container were among the debris washed up at the Shake Shack in the Eastgate Shopping Center after it was flooded during tropical storm Chantal on July 7, 2025, in... Chairs, umbrellas and a larger garbage container were among the debris washed up at the Shake Shack in the Eastgate Shopping Center after it was flooded during tropical storm Chantal on July 7, 2025, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. More AP Photo/Chris Seward What To Know City spokesperson Kelly Hunter confirmed Wednesday to Newsweek that Mebane has two days of drinking water left at current usage. "The city currently has two distribution sites where people can go to drop off and receive water, Hunter said. One is the Mebane Arts and Community Center, and the other is Mebane Fire Station 2 open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Mebane Arts Center will remain open until 8 p.m. Wednesday. "Many organizations and people are pitching in to help so the city is not concerned about running out of bottled water at this time," Hunter said. "All regulations will continue until the Graham-Mebane Water Treatment plan is back in operation, and we have no estimated date at this time. "The city of Mebane is working with local governments and state and federal governments on this situation." Flooding Compounds Infrastructure Challenges Tropical Storm Chantal struck with heavy rainfall across the Triangle region on Monday. In Durham, water rescue teams responded to emergencies along the Eno River as neighborhoods like Old Farm saw extensive flooding. With more than 50 roads closed, authorities struggled to transport repair equipment or bring in emergency water tankers. Wider Impact Across Central North Carolina The flooding claimed at least six lives, including two boaters found in Jordan Lake, Chatham County. Displacement, property damage and persistent flood watches remain ongoing for the Triangle area as additional rainfall was forecast. Responses and Recovery Efforts Local and state leaders coordinated immediate recovery and infrastructure assessments. Officials warned that continued rainfall could further hinder repairs or contaminate water supplies. Health and Safety Concerns Public health departments cautioned residents about risks of consuming untreated water amid the crisis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reiterated guidelines for boil-water advisories and flood safety. What People Are Saying Mebane Mayor Ed Hooks, on Wednesday: "Our city is working around the clock to restore water service and ensure families have the resources they need. We urge everyone to use water sparingly and follow official updates." Governor Josh Stein, in a Tuesday statement: "Our hearts go out to the families who lost a loved one during the storm. I am grateful to the local and state emergency responders who worked quickly to evacuate people and keep so many people safe. As counties across central North Carolina continue to recover, we will be there to support them." North Carolina Emergency Management Director Will Ray: "The State Emergency Response Team remains in close coordination with our state and local partners as we collectively navigate and assess the impacts from Tropical Storm Chantal. This is a reminder for all North Carolinians to be informed, have a plan, and have a disaster kit ready to go at home." What Happens Next Authorities continue to monitor water levels and infrastructure stability while distributing bottled water and deploying repair crews. Emergency water conservation measures remained in effect in Mebane and throughout the hardest-hit areas. With another flood watch in place for the region, the timeline for full recovery and restoration of safe, accessible drinking water for the city's 20,000 residents depends heavily on weather patterns and repair progress over the coming days.
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
NC: Foolishly speeding toward a fiscal cliff
The seal of North Carolina in the Senate chamber features a cornucopia as a symbol of abundance. But 15 years of budget cutting have left the state far from prosperous. (Photo: Galen Bacharier/NC Newsline) If you get a chance, check out a recent essay authored by retired Legislative Fiscal Analyst Richard Bostic. It was posted by Raleigh's News & Observer. In it, Bostic, who spent 31 years advising state legislative leaders, issues a loud and clear warning about the fiscal cliff toward which our state is speeding. His simple and straightforward message: it's imperative that GOP lawmakers rethink their massive, planned cuts to corporate and personal income taxes. And his reasoning is equally straightforward. Several core public structures and services – schools, state employee pay and retiree benefits, infrastructure – are already inadequate even as our population is growing and aging. Now add the looming threats of climate change, federal funding cuts and an economic downturn and the picture grows even more ominous. The bottom line: As Bostic observes, delaying or repealing planned tax cuts isn't just about balancing a spreadsheet — it's about protecting our schools, our infrastructure and our people. State lawmakers should heed this insightful warning. For NC Newsline, I'm Rob Schofield.
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
8 stories that highlight enforcement and gaps in NC firearms laws
Stories by News & Observer journalists, with AI summarization North Carolina continues to debate concealed carry permit requirements, as several Senate and House bills move to permitless carry and lower age thresholds for firearm possession. Cases reveal enforcement gaps, such as minors charged with possessing firearms or using stolen guns in violent incidents, as seen in the shooting at a state trooper during a high-speed chase. Stories of domestic violence highlight loopholes—one man, barred from gun ownership by court order, still acquired firearms and fatally attacked his ex-wife's boyfriend. Discussions also surface around expanding who can carry on school campuses, with recent legislation passed that lets private schools authorize armed teachers or volunteers. Together, these cases show both active enforcement and persistent holes in the laws that can impact communities. The danger is not just to victims, according to a key study, 'Deadly Calls and Fatal Encounters.' | Published January 24, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tammy Grubb Kristen Johnson Antonio Rodrigues, 70, had previously been convicted of felony stalking in two North Carolina counties, court records show. | Published January 29, 2025 | Read Full Story by Lexi Solomon It all began Saturday when hots were fired at a state trooper chasing teenagers in a stolen car going over 100 mph. | Published January 29, 2025 | Read Full Story by staff reports Legislation to allow so-called permitless carry could move forward this session after previously stalling in the GOP-controlled General Assembly. | Published February 4, 2025 | Read Full Story by Avi Bajpai One shot hit a 15-year-old in the head, deputies say | Published March 17, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mark Price The bill, which could be headed to the Senate floor soon, notably has the backing of Senate leader Phil Berger this year. | Published March 18, 2025 | Read Full Story by Avi Bajpai The bill passed along party lines, but not before Democrats successfully amended it to add benefits for slain police officers and their families. | Published March 20, 2025 | Read Full Story by Avi Bajpai GOP lawmakers say concealed weapons will provide deterrence against shooters. Democratic lawmakers said they will make schools less safe. | Published May 1, 2025 | Read Full Story by T. Keung Hui The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
