The missing 15-year-old from the Hallsboro community has been safely located. Out of an abundance of caution, she was transported to a medical facility for evaluation. Sheriff Rogers extends his sincere gratitude to all agencies and individuals who assisted in her safe recovery.

🚨 SEARCH AND RESCUE UNDERWAY – COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE REQUESTED 🚨 The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is actively conducting a search and rescue operation for 15-year-old Jettie Edwards, who has autism. Jettie was last seen around 9:00 p.m. wearing a pink sweatshirt, blue jeans, and tan Hey Dudes. She left on foot and was last seen heading toward the wooded area near her residence in the 9000 block of Hallsboro Road South. At the request of Sheriff Bill Rogers, multiple agencies are assisting in this search. The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office is en route with a helicopter, and our man-tracking team,… Read more: CCSO: Autistic 15 Year Old Girl Missing

Click here to listen: https://wvoe.net/columbus-daily-news-on-wvoe/

The advisory has been lifted as of Thursday The Town of Chadbourn has released the following statement:

Via Whiteville Police: The Whiteville Police Department is now offering free daily phone check-ins for older adults, disabled individuals, and shut-ins who live alone within the city limits. Through our “We Call, We Care” program, Chief Rockenbach or a WPD team member will call participants every day between 8–11 a.m. to ensure they’re safe and well. If there’s no answer after 3 tries, we’ll contact a listed key holder. If needed, an officer will be sent to check in person. If you’re not going to be home during your scheduled call, please leave a message at 910-642-5111 with your name… Read more: Whiteville Police Department Offers Daily “Check In’s” for Residents

The town of Chadbourn has released the following statement: “Due to an issue beyond our control with the Town’s mail service provider for the mailing of the monthly utility bills, the mailing of the May utility bills may not occur. The Town has been working to find alternative companies to provide this service going forward. Due to this issue, there will not be late fees or penalties assessed for the month of May.“ Customers may access their bill amount at: https://www.paybill.com/V2/Workflow/Payment Workflow/ClientAccount. Customers may also call Town Hall at 910-654-4148 to get your bill amount from Ms. Linda or Ms.… Read more: Town of Chadbourn says May Utility Bills May Not be Mailed

by Greg Childress, NC NewslineMay 16, 2025 Gov. Josh Stein issued a statement Thursday critical of proposed federal spending cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The governor said it would cost North Carolina $700 million to provide low-income residents with the current level of assistance if the cuts are made. SNAP benefits, formerly known as food stamps, help 1.4 million North Carolinians put food on the table, Stein said. “If Congress goes forward with these plans, our state will be forced into perilous budget decisions – should North Carolinians lose access to food, or should we get rid… Read more: Gov. Josh Stein: Loss of SNAP dollars could have dire consequences

Update: The boil water advisory has been lifted as of May 10, 2025 at 9:30 am The water customers of The Town of Chadbourn, in Columbus County have been experiencing periods of low pressure and outages in the distribution system due to a water main break. Low water pressure and some intermittent discolored water from changes in flow direction and system flushing is expected to take place over the next two to three days. Periods of low or no pressure in the distribution system increases the potential for back siphonage and the introduction of bacteria into the water system. Therefore,… Read more: Boil Water Advisory Issued for Chadbourn

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in identifying the individual pictured in connection with a stolen K-9 investigation. On April 29, 2025, our Detectives were contacted regarding a stolen dog. The owner reported that on April 26, she let her K-9 outside for a walk when it ran toward a nearby home and did not return. Later that day, an unknown male approached the neighbor’s home and asked if they had lost a dog. The neighbor, unaware of any missing dogs, told the individual no—at which point the unknown male left the area. The next day,… Read more: Sheriff’s Office Seeking Information on Stolen K-9

The Columbus County 911 center is currently offline. Calls are being routed to the Bladen County 911 center and interruptions in service are not expected. The cause is currently unknown.

Via Columbus County Sheriff’s Office: Today kicks off the NC Governor’s Highway Safety Program’s “Speed a Little. Lose a Lot.” campaign — running April 13th through April 20th. Excessive speed is one of the leading causes of crashes and fatalities on our roadways. Whether you’re running late or just not paying attention to that speedometer — think twice before you press the gas. It could cost you a ticket, your license, or far worse… a life. Deputies will be stepping up enforcement throughout the county. If you’re speeding, expect to see blue lights. The goal? Prevent the next tragedy before… Read more: Speed a Little, Loose a Lot Campaign Starts Back Up

Update: The intersection of J.K. Powell and Washington Streets is back open. Drive safely. The intersection of J.K Powell and Washington Streets will be closed for a period this morning due to a wreck. First Responders are on scene. City of Whiteville public safety alert.

by Lynn Bonner, NC NewslineApril 7, 2025 The state’s highest court has temporarily blocked an order that would have set a deadline for more than 60,000 voters to prove their eligibility to vote in last November’s Supreme Court race.  In a 2-1 decision Friday, a state Appeals Court panel agreed with Republican Appeals Court Judge Jefferson Griffin that the state Board of Elections should not have counted votes from more than 60,000 people whose registration showed up as incomplete in the state’s database or from more than 5,500 military and overseas absentee voters.  Griffin is trying to unseat incumbent Democratic… Read more: NC Supreme Court suspends 15-day deadline for voters Judge Griffin is challenging

Whiteville DMV will now open an hour earlier at 7 a.m. beginning Monday, April 7th. The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles offers extended hours at driver license offices during the week. Currently, 50 offices open at 7 a.m. instead of 8 a.m., offering an extra hour of appointments and service time. Beginning April 7, 42 more offices will open an hour early at 7 a.m. During the summer months (June – August), 20 offices will be open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. -12 p.m. for walk-in services only (no appointments).

The N.C. Forest Service has lifted a ban on all open burning effective 8 a.m. Wednesday, April 2. The statewide ban went into effect March 21 due to hazardous forest fire conditions.  The lifting of the burn ban does not apply to fires started within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. The local fire marshal has authority to issue or lift a burn ban within that 100 feet. As of 8 a.m. Wednesday, April 2, burn permits are available statewide. Residents can obtain a burn permit from any authorized permitting agent or online at https://apps.ncagr.gov/burnpermits/. All burn permits granted before… Read more: Statewide Burn Ban Lifted

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has announced the NC Ag Disaster Crop Loss Program to assist farmers and producers who have suffered agricultural losses due to natural disasters in 2024. The application period is extremely short – open from April 1st to May 4th, 2025. Producers must act quickly to submit applications before the deadline. Program Eligibility To qualify for assistance, applicants must: • Have experienced a verifiable loss of agricultural or aquaculture commodities or farm infrastructure due to the 2024 drought, Tropical Storm Debby, or other Presidential or Secretarial declared disasters (including contiguous counties). •… Read more: Applications Open for Farmers with Crop Losses from Natural Disasters

5:00pm -6:00pm Visual Arts Presentations/Poetry/Piano Presentations Auditorium6:00pm -6:30pm Middle School Chorus Performance Auditorium6:30pm- 7:00pm High School Chorus Performance Auditorium7:00pm- 7:30pm Dance Performance Auditorium7:30pm – 8:00pm Theatre Performance Auditorium8:00pm- 8:30pm Middle School Band Performance Auditorium8:30pm- 9:00pm High School Band Performance Auditorium The event is being held at South Columbus High School.

Columbus County Board of Health will convene a special called meeting on March 20, 2025 at 6:00pm.The purpose of this meeting is to discuss candidates for the position of Health Director. This meeting will be a Closed Session in Accordance with N.C.G.S. 143-318.11(A)(6) Personnel. Current Health Director Kim Smith is set to retire in May. Photo Via: Columbus County Health Department

by Ahmed Jallow, NC NewslineMarch 5, 2025 The North Carolina Senate passed a bipartisan bill 41-1 Tuesday requiring public schools to restrict student use “wireless communication devices” during instructional time. The Senate approved SB 55, which would require local education agencies to implement policies that ban students from using, displaying, or having their phones turned on during class. The bill defines a wireless communication device as “any portable wireless device that has the capability to provide voice, messaging, or other data communication between two or more parties,” including cellular telephones, tablet computers, laptop computers, paging devices, two-way radios, and gaming… Read more: NC Senate approves cell phone ban for K-12 public school students

The event will feature organizations and agencies providing information and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families.

On Friday, February 28, 2025, Trillium Health will host a free Heart Health Symposium at the Columbus County Administration Building in Whiteville, NC, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (check-in begins at 8:30 a.m.).

by Ahmed Jallow, NC NewslineFebruary 14, 2025 Two bills introduced in the North Carolina General Assembly this week would grant local school boards greater authority to set academic calendars, reigniting a long-simmering debate over school-calendar flexibility. The bills, House Bill 121 and Senate Bill 103, would allow districts to set start dates earlier than the current Aug. 26 mandate for traditional public schools. Many school districts argue that an earlier start date allows them to complete a full semester of instruction and final exams before winter break, preventing learning loss during the recess. Supporters also point out that the flexibility… Read more: NC House, Senate bills would return calendar flexibility to local school districts

Whiteville City Schools and Columbus County Schools will operate on 2-hour delays for Friday February 21st. Columbus County Schools and Whiteville City Schools Closed for Thursday. CCS: “Columbus County Schools will be closed on Thursday, February 20, for students and staff due to inclement weather. There will be no remote instruction. All after-school activities are canceled.” WCS: “Due to projected freezing water on roads and bridges, Whiteville City Schools will be closed for students and staff on Thursday, February 20, 2025.”

Update: (COLUMBUS COUNTY) – This is an update regarding the investigation of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office regarding the discovery of human remains on Bermuda Bay Lane in Tabor City, North Carolina, last week. Preliminary autopsy results from the NC Medical Examiner’s Office revealed that the death of Ervin Johnson was caused by homicide. The SBI and Columbus County Sheriff’s Office are seeking any information that the public may have with respect to this crime. If you have any information, please call the SBI at 910-939-6200 or the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office… Read more: Update: Missing Person Found Dead

Via CCSO The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office would like to announce that we have 3 transmitters available through our Project Lifesaver program! Project Lifesaver is a critical search and rescue initiative specifically designed for individuals at risk of wandering due to cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Autism, Down Syndrome, Dementia, and more. Our primary mission is clear: to save lives and prevent injuries by providing timely responses to those who wander. 🚓 Here’s how it works: Citizens enrolled in Project Lifesaver wear a small transmitter emitting a unique frequency signal. If they go missing, caregivers notify us, and our specially… Read more: Rescue Locators for People with Cognitive Conditions; Wandering Risk Available Through Sheriff’s Department

Via CCSO Last night, February 10th, at the Whiteville City Schools Board of Education’s monthly meeting, School Resource Officer Deputy RJ Fowler was recognized for his heroic actions with a certificate presented by Board Chair Greg Merritt. On January 31, 2025, at approximately 1:00 PM, SRO Fowler was conducting a routine patrol in the cafeteria at Whiteville High School when a student urgently approached him, unable to speak and struggling to breathe. The juvenile was choking. Without hesitation, SRO Fowler sprang into action, immediately performing the Heimlich maneuver to dislodge the obstruction. Due to the height difference, he had to… Read more: Whiteville School Board Recognizes SRO for Life Saving Actions

Crime stories have been moved to the Columbus Daily News Rundown, listen here.

Via CCSO On February 6, 2025, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office was alerted by Columbus Central Communications that the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office was in active pursuit of a suspect vehicle traveling eastbound on U.S. 74 toward Columbus County. The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Heavy Enforcement Action Team (H.E.A.T.), deputies, and command staff immediately responded and joined the pursuit, while members of H.E.A.T. positioned themselves just east of the Boardman overpass to intercept the vehicle. As the suspect approached at a high rate of speed, H.E.A.T. deputies successfully deployed stop sticks, deflating both front tires of the fleeing vehicle. The suspect… Read more: Man Wanted in Violent Shooting Incident Caught in High Speed Chase

Our thoughts are with the bereaved families at this time. Please feel free to send in stories, service information, or fundraisers to ColumbusDaily@hotmail.com or 1528 Old U.S. HWY 74 Chadbourn NC, 28431 George Wayne Dudley George Wayne Dudley age 82, of Whiteville, NC died Saturday, February 1, 2025 in Duke Medical Center, Durham, NC.  Born in Columbus County he was the son of the late George Edward Dudley and Marble Marie Simmons Dudley. George served in the United States Marine Corps from 1961 to 1965. After an honorable discharge from the Marines, he began his law enforcement career by joining… Read more: The obituaries as of February 7th, 2025

Ash Ngu and Andrea Suozzo ProPublica Jan. 11, 2023 In 1990, Congress passed a law recognizing the unequal treatment of Native American remains and set up a process for tribes to request their return from museums and other institutions that had them. The law, known as the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act or NAGPRA, sought to address this human rights issue by giving Indigenous peoples a way to reclaim their dead. But more than 30 years after the law’s passage, about half of the remains of more than 210,000 Native Americans have yet to be returned. Tribes have… Read more: Does Your Local Museum or University Still Have Native American Remains?

Columbus County Schools released the following statement Sunday night: “On February 2nd, at approximately 7:22 PM, South Columbus High School received a threat of violence via Remind and email from a student account. Local law enforcement was immediately contacted, and after a thorough investigation, they determined the threat was not credible. Appropriate legal action has been taken. We take all threats of violence seriously and will only continue school operations when we are fully confident in the safety of our students and staff. We encourage parents to discuss this event with their children as they see fit, as misinformation may… Read more: Threat Made Against SCHS; ‘Legal Action Taken’

Rain wasn’t the only thing pouring on Monday January 27th, 2025, as members of the Columbus County Special Operations Division along with Columbus County Criminal Investigations and Command Staff raided a home at 808 Sycamore Lane, Whiteville North Carolina. This raid marked the culmination of an investigation into narcotics sales initiated by numerous citizen complaints. After narcotics detectives secured a search warrant for the residence, a carefully planned operation was executed. The ensuing search resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of cocaine and marijuana, multiple illegal firearms—including one reported stolen—and a sum of U.S. currency. As a result… Read more: Raid Leads to ‘Huge’ Narcotics and Firearms Bust

On Monday, January 27, 2025, investigators with the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division, with assistance from the Patrol Division and surrounding agencies, successfully closed an extensive investigation into multiple larcenies at local Dollar General stores. Shymaya Ayana Newton of Fayetteville, NC, was apprehended during a traffic stop. Ms. Newton was wanted on outstanding charges from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office, Cumberland County, and authorities in South Carolina. Upon her arrest, Ms. Newton was found in possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. Ms. Newton was served with the following charges: Felony LarcenyPossession of Stolen GoodsFelony ConspiracyFelony Possession of CocainePossession… Read more: Woman Charged with Larcenies at Multiple Dollar General Stores Locally

A 17 year old female student was struck by a SUV outside of Whiteville High School Tuesday morning. The student was crossing Lee Street. The driver was not charged. The student was airlifted to NHRMC, we don’t have word on her condition.

Columbus County government said in a press release Tuesday that a boil water advisory has been put in place for customers from 1393 Chadbourn Highway to 2350 Chadbourn Highway and Fruit Ridge Road. “Due to the repair of the water main line break, the flow of water will be reversed throughout the system and customers may experience water quality issues such as discolored water,” says the press release. The county is monitoring any issues and expect the system to be clear within the next 24 hours.

Columbus County Sheriff’s Office reports that a ‘father-son dispute’ led to a stabbing in Fair bluff. From CCSO: On January 26, 2025, at approximately 9:15 am, Deputies of the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Charlie Patrol Squad were dispatched to 2100 block of Main Street in Fair Bluff in reference to a reported stabbing. Upon arrival, deputies from the Charlie Patrol Squad swiftly secured the situation and ensured that the victim received immediate medical attention. Their prompt response and initial investigation laid a critical foundation for the case. Once the Criminal Investigation Division assumed control, detectives worked diligently to gather evidence,… Read more: ‘Father-Son Dispute’ Leads to Stabbing

The Whiteville Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred at Kent Place Apartments on Thursday. One person was taken to Columbus Regional, then transported to Novant NHRMC with non-life threatening injuries. Whiteville Police Department says the alleged shooters have been identified, and that the incident is under investigation. This is a developing story. Photo Credit: Google Maps.

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction confirmed to Raleigh news outlet WRAL, that about 312,000 North Carolina teachers’ social security numbers were exposed in the PowerSchool breach that took place in late December, and that another 900+ students also had their social security numbers leaked. Both Columbus County Schools and Whiteville City Schools have confirmed that they had data leaked in the hack, we do not yet know if social security numbers were included in that data. PowerSchool will begin sending notifications to affected people in the next two weeks. Read more here

Thanks everybody for your submissions! Here’s some of our favorite photos we’ve received across Columbus County of the snow!

On Monday night, 4 people were injured in 3 separate shootings that took place in the county over night. CCSO needs your help in identifying.

Update Due to the ongoing inclement weather and hazardous road conditions, GFL will not be providing trash collection services for residents on Friday, January 24, 2025.  Per GFL, there are still a lot of secondary roads that are covered in ice.  With freezing temperatures until midday, GFL cannot allow the trucks to operate under these unsafe conditions.   GFL will resume trash collection services for their Wednesday routes on Saturday morning.  If your normal pick up day is Wednesday, please place your trash container by the roadside Friday night to ensure that your trash is collected.  GFL’s normal trash collection schedule… Read more: Trash Pickup Changes Amid Winter Weather

Closings and delays in preparation for severe winter weather. For changes to trash pickup service, click here. Whiteville City Schools virtual for Thursday and Friday. Columbus County Schools virtual for Thursday and Friday. Southeastern Community College Due to inclement weather and hazardous road conditions, Southeastern Community College will continue remote instruction and work on Friday, January 24th. Students should complete their online assignments while the college is closed to stay on track with coursework during this remote period. Waccamaw Siouan Tribe Due to possibility of inclement weather the Annual Community Meeting will be RESCHEDULED to 2/13/2025 at 7:00pm.

Columbus County residents should be aware of upcoming changes to their utility billing and payment systems. These changes are part of a software transition that is expected to take place in April 2025. What to Expect: Important Notes: Timeline: The software transition is currently projected to occur in April 2025. The exact dates of the shutdown and the launch of the new systems will be announced closer to the transition period. More information on the upcoming changes is available at ColumbusCo.org.

In the early morning hours of January 17, 2025, a routine traffic stop conducted by Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Detectives resulted in two arrests and the seizure of a significant amount of illegal narcotics. Around 1:00 a.m., A deputy of the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office H.E.A.T. (Heavy Enforcement Action Team) assisted Vice Narcotics Detectives with a traffic stop on Franklin Street near Madison Street. Upon arrival, The H.E.A.T. deputy spoke with the driver, Mr. Jerry Delane McBride, who was holding a camouflage bag close to his person and displayed signs of extreme nervousness. The H.E.A.T. deputy asked Mr. McBride… Read more: Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Arrest

CSX railroad crossing work may impact some Columbus County drivers in the Acme community as the rail company completes crossing work at the Brunswick/Columbus line. The work is set to be completed by the end of January. Map of closures:

Chadbourn, NC – In the late hours of Wednesday, January 15, 2025, a collaborative operation between the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division and the Chadbourn Police Department resulted in the dismantling of a mother-and-son drug operation in Chadbourn. The raid on the residence at 202 Jackson Street concluded an intensive joint investigation that began in October 2024. The investigation commenced after complaints were received regarding narcotics activity at the residence. Both the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Division and the Chadbourn Police Department conducted undercover purchases of narcotics. Recognizing the overlapping nature of their investigations, Sheriff Bill Rogers… Read more: Mother and Son Drug Operation Dismantled in Multi-Agency Bust

After originally saying no data of Columbus County Schools was leaked in a nationwide hack of PowerSchool, the county school system as well as Whiteville City Schools now say data from each district was leaked in the attack. Columbus County School’s statement released on Monday, January 13th: On Tuesday afternoon, January 7th, PowerSchool informed North Carolina public schools and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) about a cybersecurity incident affecting student and teacher data across its global client base. Using compromised credentials, actors were able to download large amounts of teacher and student data. This issue is not… Read more: Update: Student and Teacher Data was Breached in Power School Hack; Says CCS, WCS

Local contractors plowed into one of the water lines of the Columbus County Public Water Supply System in Columbus County Water & Sewer District IV.  Staff are working diligently to repair service to customers.  The areas affected include all customers within the Riegelwood Sanitary District.  Due to local contractors reversing the flow of water throughout the system, customers may experience water quality issues such as discolored water. Customers that experience problems with discolored water will need to contact the afterhours telephone number, 910-770-2158, to report concerns.  Staff will be working diligently to monitor potential issues that may arise.  The system… Read more: Boil Water Advisory Issued for Riegelwood Area

Columbus Daily has confirmed through multiple sources that the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Standards Division forced the Family Dollar store in Whiteville to pay penalties after multiple inspections found proof of overcharging on some items. An inspection in July 2024 found a 14% error rate for seven over charges on a 50 item order. Another inspection in August found an 18% error rate for 24 overcharges on a 300 item order. This resulted in a $2,385 fine. Another inspection in October found a 6.67% error rate for 20 overcharges on a 300 item order. For that they… Read more: Whiteville Family Dollar Fined for Price Scanning Errors

The Columbus County Sherrif’s Office announced that 2 suspects have now been charged in shootings that caused property damage in Tabor City From CCSO, On December 26, 2024, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a shooting into an occupied dwelling on Reynolds Road in the Tabor City community. The Criminal Investigations Division has since identified and charged two suspects in connection with the incident. Deputies were dispatched following a report of threats and gunfire at the residence. Upon arrival, deputies discovered multiple bullet holes throughout the home. The investigation revealed that several individuals were inside the… Read more: Two Now Charged in Tabor City Shooting

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office successfully resolved a case involving a dangerous disturbance with weapons and a high-speed vehicle pursuit. This incident, which began with a citizen’s report of armed individuals, underscores the effective collaboration between our Patrol Deputies, Vice/Narcotics Detectives, and the Horry County Sheriff’s Office. On December 31, 2024, deputies were dispatched to the area of Carolina Road in response to reports of a disturbance involving weapons. A resident reported seeing two males running through his yard, one chasing the other with an AR-style rifle. The witness confronted the armed individual and urged him to leave, citing the… Read more: High Speed Chase Leads to Drug Arrest

Columbus County Schools and Whiteville City Schools announced that schools will operate on a 2-hour delay for Thursday January 9th due to a cold weather advisory. “Due to a Cold Weather Advisory and fore- casted wind chill temps in the low teens, CCS will operate on a two-hour delay tomorrow, January 9th, for students, faculty, and staff. Please be safe!” Via Columbus County Schools.

Update: Carolina Green, 16, has now been charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle. Misty Cribb, 35, of Clarendon died Monday morning when she was struck head on by a Jeep on Peacock road in the Beaverdam community around 7:45 am. The driver of the Jeep was Carolina Green, 16, of Chadbourn. Sgt. K. McVicker with the State Highway Patrol said Green crossed the centerline. Cribb moved over to the right shoulder to avoid her, but was struck head on. There is no evidence of distracted or impaired driving, more information is awaited as the accident is being investigated by Highway… Read more: Mother Killed, Daughter, and Boy Injured in Peacock Road Crash

The third national Confederate flag, a variant of the Confederate flag was discovered in place of the Whiteville City flag at the city flagpole on the 701 Bypass Wednesday morning. Bernard Dockery shared the now viral post on Facebook of the flag, saying “if this is in Whiteville, we can do better.” The flag was removed by Emergency Services Director Hal Lowder. The city in a statement said the following: “The City is aware of the trespass and removing of flags at our welcome sign. The incident is under investigation. The unauthorized flags have been removed.” The vandal or vandal’s… Read more: Confederate Flag Flown at Whiteville Entry; Not Authorized by City

Man Shoots at Deputy; Then Kills Himself at the scene of an accident near Whiteville.

When N.C. Senator Bill Rabon made the recommendation, small town projects planner guru Al Leonard stepped up to answer the call for the latest appointment to the Southeastern Community College Board of Trustees. Leonard was sworn in to the board at its regular meeting in September.  “Sen. Rabon has been a true public servant who listens locally and works very hard in Raleigh,” Leonard said. “When he appointed me, I was honored and humbled.”  Leonard is the Capital Projects Director for the Town of Tabor City, and he serves as the Redevelopment Director for the Fair Bluff Chamber of Commerce.… Read more: Al Leonard Joins SCC Board of Trustees

Marty Davene Soles has been sentenced to life without parole in the 2020 murder of Tony Clayborn. On March 2, 2020, a witness saw Soles open fire on Clayborn on Pine Circle Road in Tabor City. Cell phone records that were obtained in coordination with the FBI place him there at the time of the murder, he was then apprehended by U.S. Marshals.

Tabor City Police Department is asking for the community’s help in finding Jason Spivey, a man they are looking for regarding several felony warrants. “If any of you have any information on the whereabouts of Mr.Jason Spivey he has several felony warrants and needs to be apprehended without delay! Please contact  911 or the Tabor City Police 910-653-3149.” Via Tabor City Police

East Columbus Jr./Sr. High School teacher Dr. Anthony Martin was announced Tuesday as the 2025 Teacher of the Year for the Sandhills region. The announcement was made during a surprise pep rally organized for the occasion. Dr. Martin, a CTE teacher, and former assistant superintendent of Whiteville City Schools, is now among nine other teachers recognized to be the best in the state of North Carolina. When asked how he felt about the recognition, Martin told Columbus Daily’s Logan Kennedy; “When I started my second act in education a little more than three years ago, I never thought I would… Read more: “Proud to be a Gator”; Anthony Martin Recognized as Regional Teacher of the Year

Nakina, NC – Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Detectives recently executed a search warrant on Nucket Lane near Nakina, North Carolina. This operation uncovered a significant recovery of stolen property, including three trailers, a camper, and a dirt bike. Additionally, the investigation led to a breakthrough for the Narcotics Division, resulting in another search warrant that unveiled amounts of heroin, fentanyl, marijuana, and a firearm. The following individuals were charged in connection with this case: Skylar Ray Long Jonathan David Cumbee Teresa Marie Hursey Linda Nicole Gore Jonathan Brett Dorsch The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are anticipated as detectives continue their… Read more: CCSO: “Santa Comes Early for Property Crime Victims”

According to State Highway Patrol, two vehicles crashed in a head-on collision Saturday afternoon on Hallsboro Rd. near Barney Tyler Rd. One driver was pronounced dead at the scene, with the other driver taken to CRHS with minor injuries. The driver pronounced dead has been identified as retired police officer Clay Hagood. Hagood worked for the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office for over 20 years, and worked for Whiteville and Tabor City police departments. His funeral service will be held Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 2:00pm at Peacock Funeral Home’s Chapel with the Rev Scott Lewis officiating. Burial will follow in… Read more: Retired Police Officer Clay Hagood Killed in Crash

Landon Powell, 25, of Cerro Gordo has been charged with 10 counts of Second Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. State SBI received a tip in March that a person was allegedly sex-torting a minor in Pennsylvania. Landon Powell was eventually identified as the suspect. He has been issued a $15,000 bond.

Three people already charged in the disappearance of Shanna Perry, are now all charged with murder. The investigation into Shanna Perry’s disappearance began in May 2024 after she hadn’t been seen since April 26th in the Delco area. Despite extensive searches, her body has still not been accounted for, she was also 5 months pregnant. Lance Sandlin, Lori Angel Flowers, and Emily Sandlin are now all charged with murder and concealment of death, Lori Flowers was charged with accessory after the fact as well. All three are held without bond. Read more on this story here:

On December 4, 2024, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Heavy Enforcement Action Team (H.E.A.T.) Team, along with Criminal Investigation Detectives and Narcotics Detectives, successfully apprehended fugitive Raymond Timothy Warren, also known as “Chinaman.” Warren was charged with two counts of Felony Larceny and an outstanding parole violation. The investigation began on December 2, 2024, when detectives followed leads to a location just outside the town of Whiteville, where they discovered a stolen camper and identified Warren as a suspect. Upon their arrival, Warren attempted to evade arrest, fleeing the scene in a vehicle and recklessly endangering the lives of three… Read more: ‘Chinaman’ Caught; Charged with Felony Larceny

DEVELOPING – Columbus Daily is following a developing story that took place around 6pm at Murphy’s USA in Whiteville. A man reportedly hit a gas pump his pickup, then locked himself inside the store. He was subdued by police and taken to hospital. This is a developing story

North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation arrested three people who facilitated an escape attempt at the Columbus County Detention Center. Inmate Natrell Mckinnies tried to get out with the help of Javon Bowen and a 17-year-old. According to investigators. Last month, the SBI, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office, and the Columbus County District Attorney’s Office began an investigation into an escape attempt at the Columbus County Detention Center. The investigation led to the arrests of Natrell Ky’el McKinnies, Javon Terrell Bowen, and a 17-year-old juvenile. McKinnies was an inmate at the Columbus County Detention Center trying to coordinate his escape from… Read more: Arrest Made in Escape Attempt at County Jail

One person was injured after a firearm fell from the vehicle, causing a self inflicted injury on the campus. Southeastern Community College confirmed Wednesday, and said they are fully cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation of the incident. The individual was taken to CRHS, no one else was involved in the incident, and SCC says there was no active threat for students or staff.

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office conducted an operation that resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of narcotics. Via CCSO Tabor City, NC – On November 26 and 27, 2024, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division, including Narcotics Detectives and the Heavy Enforcement Action Team (H.E.A.T.), conducted a successful operation resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of illegal narcotics. While patrolling Highway 904 East on November 26, H.E.A.T. deputies observed a vehicle leaving a residence on Pine Circle Road known for drug activity. The vehicle, which exhibited an unusually loud exhaust and was observed speeding, was stopped… Read more: Arrests Lead to Collapse of Drug Operation

During Monday nights County Commissioners meeting, Lavern Coleman, in a split vote was elected board chair. Coleman was also sworn in for his 2nd term. He replaces Cerro Gordo representative Ricky Bullard who has held the position since 2020. Coleman, 70, is a life-long resident of Columbus County and worked for International Paper for over 40 years. He holds an Associates Degree in Pulp and Paper, he was elected to the board in 2020. Chris Smith replaced Giles Byrd as Vice Chair. Photo credit: Lavern Coleman’s 2020 Campaign

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is seeking your help to locate a stolen camper trailer. On November 30, 2024, deputies responded to a report of larceny at 317 Home Harrelson Road. The victim reported that their 2022 Hide A Bed Camper Trailer was stolen during the night. They last saw the camper at the property on November 29, 2024, at 10:00 PM, and discovered it missing at 11:30 AM the following morning. A nearby resident reported seeing a dark-colored, four-wheel-drive truck towing a camper in the area around 5:30 AM on November 30. If you have any information about this… Read more: Community Assistance Needed in Theft of Camper

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Jose Luis Puente, a 62-year-old male. Description: Last Seen: November 26, 2024, around 2:00 PM near Seller Town Road.Clothing: Black t-shirt, jeans, cowboy boots, black hat with a Texas flag, and a black jacket. If you have seen Mr. Puente or have any information regarding his whereabouts, please contact the Columbus County non emergency number at (910) 640-1428. Your help is crucial in ensuring Mr. Puente’s safe return. Please share this post to spread the word. Thank you for your assistance. -Columbus County Sheriff’s Office

The “Thanksgiving Click It or Ticket” campaign begins on Monday and runs through Dec. 1.

Via Southeastern Community College: In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, Southeastern Community College welcomed more than 230 high school juniors and seniors to campus for the first ever ACCESS Open House event on Nov. 20. Industry partners engaged with students eager to learn about career options through apprenticeship in Columbus County, and students performed hands-on skills to showcase their talents to potential employers. Three students signed apprenticeship agreements in healthcare, while CCS and WCS signed apprenticeship agreements in teacher prep.   “Today will go down in history for the college as a change agent,” said Dr. Chris English, SCC President.… Read more: SCC Holds Apprenticeship Event

On Sunday Nov, 17th, officials with Boys & Girls Homes and Thomas Academy were made aware that a Thomas Academy employee had allegedly engaged in inappropriate communication with a student at Thomas Academy. The employee’s contract was subsequently terminated. Jody Watts, 49, of Green Sea, SC, was arrested for alleged: Indecent Liberties with a Student and first degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. Officials with BGHNC and Thomas Academy notified and are cooperating with law enforcement and the district attorney’s office. The organizations are not specifically naming the employee, However Columbus Daily can confirm the identity as it matches arrest… Read more: Thomas Academy Teacher Charged with Sex Crimes; Fired by School

Via CCSO: The Criminal Investigation Division of the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office has successfully concluded an investigation into a stolen property case, resulting in charges against three individuals and the recovery of the stolen property. The property will be returned to the victim. The following individuals have been charged as a result of this investigation: Thomas Bradley Blackwell: Charged with Felony Larceny and Possessing/Receiving Stolen Property.Jessica Nichole Pace: Charged with Possessing/Receiving Stolen Property.Anthony Soles: Charged with Felony Larceny and Possessing/Receiving Stolen Property.The dedication of the Criminal Investigation Detectives in solving this case highlights their commitment to not only holding offenders… Read more: Investigation into Stolen Property Concluded; Three Charged

A minor was struck in the mouth in Whiteville on the 18th while trying to intervene in an argument on behalf of his Step Mother. It happened on Monday when the sheriff’s office says a sergeant found a man standing in the yard who said he’d been hit in the mouth with an axe by Patrick Gatlin, 39. The man says Gatlin and his stepmother had been arguing when the minor attempted to escort him out of the house. He says that’s when Gatlin began punching him in the face and hit him with an axe. Warrants are issued against… Read more: Teen Struck with Axe

Commissioner Brenden Jones of Tabor City was elected by a majority of his Republican colleagues to be the majority leader of the NC House of Representatives. “I am incredibly honored and excited to have been elected NC House Majority Leader. Thank you to my colleagues for your trust and support. I look forward to working together as we move forward and accomplish great things. Our State has great days ahead.” Jones was unapposed in this year’s election and is on his 4th term in the house.

Via CCSO: Tabor City, NC – On October 27, 2024, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office VICE Narcotics Investigators, with critical support from the Patrol Division, successfully concluded an investigation involving the possession of automatic weapons, suppressed firearms, and a marijuana grow operation in the Tabor City community. This joint effort resulted in the arrest of two individuals from Tabor City: Mr. Dustin Randall Duncan and Ms. Regina Norris. Charges: Mr. Dustin Randall Duncan faces multiple charges, including:Manufacturing MarijuanaMaintaining a vehicle or dwelling place for the sale of a controlled substancePossession with intent to sell or deliver (PWISD) MarijuanaPossession of a… Read more: 2 Charged in Narcotics; Weapons Bust

Chloe Sagendorph, 27, has been charged in a hit and run that killed a construction worker on Wednesday. David Jackson was working on Georgia Pacific Rd with a construction crew around 12:45pm when Sagendorph struck and killed the 39-year-old Bladenboro native. She’s been charged with DWI, Felony Death by Vehicle, Felony Hit and Run, Failure to Maintain Lane Control, and Failure to Report an Accident.

Whiteville Police Department Chief Douglas Ipock has announced he is retiring. Ipock’s served as chief of Whiteville PD since 2020, replacing Jeffrey Rosier, who retired a year before. Prior to coming to Whiteville PD, Ipock worked for New Bern PD. He’s been in law enforcement for over 30 years. His last day will be February 28, 2025.

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after shots were fired into the home of former Columbus County Sheriff Lewis Hatcher. According to the incident report, deputies responded to Hatcher’s home on Pridgen Acres Dr in Clarkton around 6:40pm on November 7th. Multiple bullet holes and shell casings were found on the property. Camera footage claims to show a suspect in the yard wearing dark clothing around the time of the incident. CCSO is asking anyone with information to contact them.

Via CCSO: Operation “Dropped Call” The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice Narcotics Division concluded a extensive investigation into the distribution of illegal substances into the Columbus County Detention Center. During the course of this investigation nine people have been charged with over forty felonies. Among those charged were, Notorious Taylor is charged with the following: Four counts of Felony Conspiracy and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile. Bobby Toon was also charged with four counts of Felony Conspiracy. Semaj Bethea was charged with four counts of Felony Conspiracy. Mark Anthony Nelson was charged with four counts of Felony Conspiracy.… Read more: CCSO Charges 9 People with 40+ Felonies

Ernie Gaskins, candidate for Whiteville City School Board District 3 and host of Real Talk joins Logan Kennedy on Columbus Daily News on WVOE 1590am to discuss the election in Columbus County and his own school board race.

NAME ON BALLOT PARTY BALLOT COUNT PERCENT Donald J. Trump REP 17,555 66.71% Kamala D. Harris DEM 8,602 32.69% Jill Stein GRE 42 0.16% Write-In (Miscellaneous) 38 0.14% Chase Oliver LIB 34 0.13% Cornel West JFA 34 0.13% Randall Terry CST 11 0.04% NAME ON BALLOT PARTY BALLOT COUNT PERCENT David Rouzer REP 17,363 67.54% Marlando D. Pridgen DEM 8,345 32.46% NAME ON BALLOT PARTY BALLOT COUNT PERCENT Mark Robinson REP 14,945 58.04% Josh Stein DEM 9,870 38.33% Mike Ross LIB 549 2.13% Wayne Turner GRE 199 0.77% Vinny Smith CST 186 0.72% NAME ON BALLOT PARTY BALLOT COUNT PERCENT… Read more: FINAL Election Results for Columbus County

Via CCSO: Columbus County, NC – The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating two separate shooting incidents involving a juvenile and an adult victim that occurred within hours of each other. Railroad Street Shooting Leaves Juvenile Wounded On the evening of November 4, 2024, around 8:00 p.m., deputies responded to a call at 357 Railroad Street SW, where a juvenile had sustained a gunshot wound to the back of the head. The young victim, who was alert and responsive at the scene, was immediately transported to Columbus Regional Healthcare by Cerro Gordo Fire & Rescue. Witnesses in the area… Read more: Sheriff’s Office Investigating Two Overnight Shootings

Live election results for Columbus County:

Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know for election day:

Here’s a rundown of the schedule for the 2024 Pecan Music Festival in Downtown Whiteville:

COMMUNITY SOAPBOX: What’s your thoughts? County Commissioners are to discuss restrictions on Vape Shops at their Monday board meeting. Do you think the county should implement tighter restrictions on these businesses? The proposal that the county will vote on Monday calls for these shops that sell tobacco, kratom, and hemp to be at least 1,000 feet away from any schools, childcare centers, rehab facilities, parks, or other shops that sell the same products. These ordinances will only apply to unincorporated areas of the county. The community will be able to provide input at the meeting. It takes place Monday, November… Read more: County to Vote on Vape Shop Restrictions

Jerrod Mustaf, a former All-ACC big man at Maryland and the No. 17 overall draft pick of the New York Knicks, died Monday at the age of 55. He played four NBA seasons in total, one for the Knicks and three for the Suns, but his career was derailed when he was characterized by police as “an investigative lead” in the murder of Althea Hayes, who was pregnant with a child she believed was Mustaf’s at the time of her death. He would go on to play another seven years abroad before retiring. – CBS Sports. Mustaf was born in… Read more: NBA Star and Whiteville Native Jerrod Mustaf Dead at 55

A man has been charged in a North Whiteville shooting that took place Saturday. Frederick Smith, 71, has been charged with murder and is currently held at the Columbus County Jail. The woman killed has been identified as Brandi Alexis Scott. Reports claim she called 911 to a home on Elizabeth Street, reported to be shared between the two, after Smith allegedly assaulted her. Smith is being held without bond.

Wally Dean Whaley, 61, of Tabor City was arrested after attempting to abscond to another state to avoid an arrest warrant for statutory rape of a child. According to the warrant, Whaley allegedly raped a minor who was at least 12 years old but younger than 15 on or around the 13th. A Columbus County magistrate issued a warrant for his arrest on October 18th.

Via CCSO: Whiteville, NC October 24, 2024 – The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the conviction of Johnathan Terrille Jordan, 36, of Whiteville, NC, who was found guilty of multiple drug-related charges on Wednesday, September 25, 2024. The conviction comes after a significant investigation by the Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit, which led to Jordan’s arrest in June 2022. On June 7, 2022, around 2:30 p.m., two Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Detectives observed a blue Lincoln Town Car with tinted windows crossing the centerline several times on FM Cartret Road, just off James B. White Highway. The… Read more: Narcotics Investigation Leads to Arrest

As a part of a larger project that changes how Lake Waccamaw and Highway 74/76 connect, town government has announced the following traffic pattern change: “NCDOT has opened the overpass on Chaunceytown Road. Please note all east bound traffic must use the Chaunceytown Road detour for the next few weeks. The detour takes east bound traffic to 214 to Firetower Road to access Hwy 74/76.”

Columbus Daily News has learned through Lieutenant Governor and Republican Governatorial Candidate Mark Robinson’s campaign that he will visit Whiteville Tuesday at Dale’s Seafood. Campaign send out: “We are trying to reach every household in Columbus County to invite them to Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson’s town hall event tomorrow afternoon in Whiteville! At the event, Mark will be providing an update on the hurricane recovery efforts he’s leading in western NC, discussing his vision for the state, and answering YOUR questions. This event will begin at 3:30 PM tomorrow (Tuesday) at: Dale’s Seafood 107 N J K Powell Blvd Whiteville,… Read more: Mark Robinson to Visit Whiteville

Brunswick Mayor Jason Elleby debunked claims in an online post by Facebook user Andy Powell that immigrants had been dropped off in the town. The Facebook video showed a man recording people walking down a road from his vehicle as he drove down the road. Mayor Jason Elleby released the following statement on Saturday: “I have been contacted multiple times via phone calls and text messages regarding a video circulating on Facebook depicting a bus supposedly dropping off immigrants. I want to clarify that this information is not accurate. The individuals in the video are actually employees of Dreamland Amusement,… Read more: Video Claims Immigrants “Dropped Off” in Brunswick; they were fair workers

WVOE 1590 AM, a radio station in Chadbourn, held its annual Fish Fry Sale on Saturday. We met up with some of the folks involved with the historical radio station to talk about the event, the station’s history, and how folks can help keep the station on air.

CCSO released a public service announcement Friday warning county residents of a Jury Duty Scam that’s circulating in the county. The scammers claim you missed jury duty and demand money via gift cards, wire transfers, and prepaid debit cards. “We want to keep you informed and safe from scams that are circulating. One such scam is the **Jury Duty Scam**, where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement or court officials to trick you into paying fines for supposedly missing jury duty. Here’s what you need to know: **How It Works:** – Scammers call or email, claiming you missed jury duty and must… Read more: Sheriff’s Office Warns of Jury Duty Scam