ABC11 Eyewitness News - Eyewitness News at 4pm - October 14, 2026

Episode Date: October 14, 2026

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Breaking at four, a daycare worker in Chatham County is facing a slew of new misdemeanor child abuse charges involving at least three children. And all new at four, eyewitness news is learning more about the additional charges and the pretrial conditions the judge has now ordered. Testimony continues in the Faith Hedgepeth murder trial in Chapel Hill. A second forensic scientist taking the stand today, the key evidence investigators say was used to rule out a suspect. And prayers for Pope Leo well wishes pouring in for the pontiff as he fights lung cancer. coming around the world, including right here in the triangle. Right now, live coverage from your local news leader, keeping you connected to your community and your first alert forecast.

Here's what's happening where you live. This is ABC 11-I witness news. Right now for call it a summer rewind, if you will. Central North Carolina is seeing record heat today with temperatures climbing to 90 degrees. The hot weather coming just in time. The first day of the state fair tomorrow as well. Cruise, hard at work over at the fairgrounds, putting together all the final touches ahead of the big opening day. And it's going to be a hot one.

Thanks for joining us here this Wednesday, Friday, News News at 4. I'm Amber Repent. And I'm Barbara Gibbs. Spoiler alert, if you haven't been watching the forecast. This heat's expected to stick around for at least a couple more days. Yeah, and then you're going to need your jacket this weekend, says meter all just used to. Whiplash. Right now, the AC's cranked in here.

B. Gibbs needs to go outside and warm up for a second. I mean, you know, that's every day. All right, listen, yeah. So the latest, the latest we just looked at, guys, 89.6. It's been holding there for a while. So until we officially get the 90, we're gonna say it's been 79 times. We've hit 90 degrees. On average, we do it 45 times.

Last year was 59. It's been hot. And we can even get to 90 tomorrow come really close to it. As we get to around 10, 11 o'clock, we're already in the 80s. But notice some cooler weather to the north. There's a little backdoor front that tries to come at us, getting close to us. We still think we'll at least get the upper 80s, if not 90 for tomorrow, and then probably upper 80s again as we go into Friday. Need some rain, though. We have a tiny little surplus right now, but after a couple of really dry months, we could use some more rain.

This is the last rain that we had. If you look at the last weekend, some areas picked up good amounts of rain. Where you see the green, that's an inch, the yellow is two inches, but some areas that desperately needed the rain didn't get as much. So the watershed of Carr Lake is just terrible once again. Sanford got a good dosing of rain there, but look at our reservoir still well below full pool. Lake Mickey's over 10 feet below and nearly 12 feet below up in Carr Lake. So we could use some more rain. We have that opportunity for some. This would be light though.

Strong front, moisture starved Friday night into Saturday. We could get some early showers on Saturday and then it moves out and the really chilly air moves in. Holding at 89 right now out at North Hills with a southwesternly breeze at 10 miles an hour. area wide. We're right around that 90 degree mark in many areas or some upper 80s. Definitely pretty hot, but at least a dew points are in check and not a bad evening. We'll see the numbers coming down of heading out to Walnut Creek tonight about 72 degrees by the time you're going to be heading home. You will need jackets this weekend. More on that coming up in just a few minutes. All right. Steve, thank you. Breaking right now at 4, we're learning more about the allegations

against the Chatham County daycare worker and the number of children, authorities say, are involved in this. This is a story you first saw on eyewitness news last week. Authorities say this is all tied to the amazing Explorers Academy at Chatham Park in Pittsburgh. And today, 24-year-old Violetta Wolovich made her first court appearance. Cindy Bay is live in Pittsburgh now with the very latest. Cindy? Yeah, and during her virtual first appearance, we learned there are four pending cases.

According to prosecutors, Wolovich now faces 18 misdemeanor child abuse counts involving at least three children. A Pittsburgh daycare worker faces 18 misdemeanor child abuse counts stemming from alleged incidents at Amazing Explorers Academy at Chatham Park. 24-year-old Violetta Woolovich made her first court appearance virtually today. ABC 11 could not record the hearing, but learned she faces additional charges. According to court documents, Wollovich is accused of slamming a one-year-old onto a sleeping bag in mat, pinning his head to the floor and aggressively slapping his back.

back to get him to sleep. She's also accused of covering the child's mouth, squeezing his face, and jerking him by the arm to lay him down. Similar allegations are detailed in court documents in seven other counts involving a second child, both cases stemming from alleged incidents on September 28th. ABC 11 reached out to the daycare for comment. Wollovich did not say anything on her behalf in court, but her attorney said she had no criminal history, a parent whose son attended the daycare last year and whose child was not involved in the alleged incidents shared her reaction. It was very unfortunate, but we were very lucky with our teachers and really liked them.

But yeah, I feel for the parents because, you know, it's hard. And as of 4 p.m. this evening, we have not heard back from the daycare at this time. A judge set a $1,000 secured bond in each case. And we'll have more on what we're learning from the court documents ahead on eyewitness news at 5 in Pittsburgh. Cindy Bay. ABC 11 eyewitness news. Disturbing all around. Cindy, thank you. We're following breaking news right now. The town of Chapel Hill is considering providing police services to Carborough. The town says this is at Carborough's request. Chapel Hill would help with patrol, investigations, and crisis response. The town of Carborough would pay the town

of Chapel Hill for providing these services. Any formal plans to move forward with the idea would need approval from both Carborough and Chapel Hill town councils. There is no word yet on when town leaders will meet to discuss this possible partnership. Eyewitness News has reached out to the town of Carborough for comment and we are still waiting to hear back. Also breaking right now, President Emeritus and former Vee Foundation CEO Nick Velvano has passed away. The V Foundation announced this news today, thanking Velvano for his work for the organization

and helping with cancer research. He served as CEO of the organization from 1999 to 2012. He is the younger brother of Jimmy V, the founder of the V organization. and legendary NC State basketball coach. Legendary basketball coach Dick Vital reacting to the news last night. He shared a message on X in part, quote, he was so vital to the V Foundation, please God Nick, R. I rest in peace. Make God May Nick rest in peace.

Right now at four, testimony continues in the Faith Hedgepeth murder trial in Chapel Hill. The student killed in her off-campus of part. 14 years ago. All new this afternoon a second forensic scientist is taking the stand. This time talking about the DNA used to rule out suspects. Akela Davis has been in the courtroom force who joins us now live. Akila, tell us more about today's testimony. Yeah, so a second forensic scientist with the North Carolina State Crime Lab is testifying she took the jury back to 2012 when 19-year-old Faith Hedgepath was killed inside the courtroom, Aaron Ermish. That's her name. She was first assigned to the jury back to the jury back to 12th, when 19-year-old Faith Hedgepath was killed inside.

this case in September of 2012. Her job was to analyze blood, semen, saliva, and DNA found. She tested several items from the crime scene, including the Bacardi rum bottle, the boxer's shorts Faith was wearing, and swabs collected from her body. Ermish's report was generated in October of 2012 just one month after Faith was killed. It ruled out several people as contributors to the DNA evidence, including the roommate, Corrine Rosario and Rosario's ex-boyfriend to Coy Jones. While forensic scientists ruled out many people, they concluded the DNA found on FACEB body, were from the same person. And we know witness testimony from that second forensic scientist continues. I'll have more ahead on eyewitness news at 5. Reporting live in Durham,

Akela Davis, ABC 11, eyewitness news. Right, Akela, thank you. New at 4, a local high school football coach is now back on the job after an investigation into alleged hazing practices. Rone Oak Rapids head coach Chris Lyons was suspended last month after a player's hand injury in the locker room raised concerns about potential hazing. The school says one student reported concerning behavior by other players on the team. The investigation revealed another player accidentally closed the door on the student's hand and was not intentional. The school says Coach Lyons was unaware of any misconduct that may have risen to the level of hazing and has since been reinstated. In a statement, Coach Lyons thanked everyone for their support and expressed his appreciation for the thorough. investigation. All new here for the Dow closing in the red today and it comes as the government

released new data today on inflation showing it increased again in September. Inflation now of 3.7% since last year. Today's inflation report comes as higher gas prices and higher inflation are hitting the wallets of everyday Americans. According to Moody's analytics, the typical American family is spending about $253 more for a month for the same goods and services a year ago and $608 more a month than three years ago, and then that jumps to $1,307 compared to more than five years ago. DeWan Hogarth has more from the Raleigh-Iwood News Center. The latest inflation report released this morning paints a picture that is becoming all too familiar for Tracy Little. It's been tight. As a mom, she tells me she was doing all she can to make ends

meat for her and her daughter. As today's Consumer Price Index Inflation Report shows inflation rising 3.7% in September compared to last year and higher than August figures, marking this as the highest annual rate we have seen in four months. Things have hit the fan already in this economy. I guess people are sitting down and trying to figure out how they're going to maneuver through this. The report also shining a light on rising gas prices as the biggest reason for the inflation spike, which is dipping into Little's budget as she strategically monitors her gas tank. This is my daughter car. This car takes premium. So we can't let this get below a half. It takes. That was her texting me.

She asked me, can she go to the gym? I said, I told you this morning, we need to fill up this car now. Economy experts are also sounding off on news of the report, pointing to the challenge inflation is creating for the everyday consumer, as experts eye a potential interest rate hike later this month. So I think that's one reason why the Fed will wait and see, because it takes several months for their full revisions of the employment numbers to come through, plus inflation can change so much a month to month. And Little tells me the way that she saves money is by couponing. She said she's been doing it by several years looking after a folks she actually follows on social media. Now, coming up for

you all new ahead at five, you're going to hear from her specifically on what she's doing and her advice to you on the way to save money. That's all new and ahead for you at five. Live inside the Raleigh Witness News Center, DeWan Hogarth. M. 11, Iowness News. Looking forward to those tips as so many are trying to stretch their dollar. Duwan, thanks. Still ahead here. 4 o'clock early voting kicks off tomorrow in North Carolina. After the break, I witness is going one-on-one with the Wake County Board of Elections Director, why she says they decided to add more polling locations this year. And the state fair has crowned the winners for its giant pumpkin and watermelon contest.

The whopping number the fruits weighed in at. We'll have that. Steve. Holy cow. I know. Hey, looking at the I-40 right now and Miami Boulevard, boy, it's slowing down as you would expect. But lots of sunshine out there. Temperatures are really warm as well. could do this again for tomorrow. Come close to getting 90 again. Big changes for the week and then we'll talk about that coming up as we head to break. Here's your traffic hot spots brought you by West Shore Home. Meet Nexha, a luxury bathroom experience engineered for beauty without the upkeep. Nexsa brings the timeless beauty of natural stone and marble into a new era.

Luxury without compromise. Beauty without the burden. Only available with Nexha from West Shore Home. Don't miss out on our fall reframed. offer. We're waiving all insulation costs. Plus, get 36 months, no interest, and no money down. Schedule your free design consultation today. ABC. I Witness News. We are Local News weeknights 4 to 630 and 11. Well, tomorrow is the beginning of in-person early voting in North Carolina. There are 370 early voting sites across the state, including 18 in Wake County, and you can cast a ballot of any early voting site in your county. According to, Under the State Board of Elections, more than half a voter turnout over the past two midterms

has taken place during early voting. Today we went one-on-one with Wake County Board of Elections Executive Director Olivia McCall, who explained why the board chose to add locations this cycle. When our board was making that decision, they definitely looked at how many people have utilized early voting in the past and where that kind of leads to this upcoming election. So we ended up with 18 sites, 20% increase from a like election, which is, which is, which is great for our Wake County voters. Early voting runs through 3 p.m. Saturday, October 31st. Coming up here at 5 o'clock, Michael Perchick will join us with a live report breaking down the key

issues driving voters to the polls. The No King's movement is hosting a nationwide day of action this Saturday, October 17th. They're encouraging people to make a plan and vote early. More than 1,500 events are planned for all 50 states and Washington, D.C. There are several No King's events planned for North Carolina, so you might see some traffic impacts throughout the triangle. of Georgia shatters a midterm election record on its first day of early voting. More than 188,000 ballots were cast, which is about 50,000 more than the number who voted early on the first day of voting in 2022. Black voters made up more than 36 percent of day one. Early votes cast, according to the data site Vote Hub. Some of the most closely watched races are

happening in Georgia. That includes races for U.S. Senate and governor. Democrat John Ossoff is fighting to win re-election against Republican challenger, Representative Mike Collins. Former Atlanta Mayor Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms is facing off against health care executive Rick Jackson to replace retiring Georgia governor Brian Kemp. Now at 4, the Trump administration may be reversing course on its plan to live stream the execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hassan. Sources told ABC News officials are now weighing other options over concerns. The broadcast could reflect poorly on the United States or even fuel anti-American propaganda.

One possibility cutting away before the firing squad begins. was convicted in the 2009 mass shooting at Fort Hood that killed 13 people and wounded more than 30 others. A dramatic step at Cornell University amid the sexual assault investigation. The school is now suspending all parties and social events at fraternities for the rest of the school year and even considering whether fraternities can exist there at all. For weeks, students and faculty have demanded change after a former student alleged she was gang raped inside the Kai Phi House in 2024. All new here at 4 o'clock. We now know the winners for the winners for the the NC State Fair's giant pumpkin and watermelon contest.

In first place, with a whopping 2,123 pound pumpkin is Albert Rodbaugh of West Virginia. How do you get that thing down here? He also received the award for the best looking pumpkin as well. In the North Carolina only competition, the winning pumpkin weighed in at 585.4 pounds. It was grown by James Kane of Stokes County. And as for that watermelon competition,

look at those. Todd Dawson of Garner placed first at 200 181.6 pounds. The winning entries, by the way, will be on display in the Agri Supply Expo Center during the State Fair. I always got to go through there and see them. It's a site. It is a site. Oh my gosh, they're huge. How many pies could you make with that thing? A gazillion.

Yeah. So fun. It was pretty too. Yeah. Listen, we did it. We hit 90. We did. That was quick.

Oh, record. Yeah. Record was 86. I mean, we blew past that quickly. Wow. Yeah, another 90. Yeah. You know what that makes? That makes 80 times we hit 90 this year, and we average 45.

Last year we did it 59 times, so we could hit 90 again for tomorrow, folks. We've got to be right up there and close to it as we go into our Friday as well. Then a big drop in our temperature, I'm telling you, next week, we've got to stretch of some really nice weather. But you're going to be shocked at just how cold it's going to get as we head into Saturday with that breeze coming in from the north. Clear skies out there right now. We're looking fantastic. More record highs the next two days. So we'll get through it. And then state fair tomorrow, shorts and T-shirts. It'll be nice out there, but it will be warm. The evening should be absolutely fantastic. You'll want those jackets as we head into the weekend. They'll look at some of the morning lows as we get into early Sunday morning and Monday morning as well. Outlying areas are likely going to be maybe as low as the mid-30s and could even see some frost if the breeze lets up enough. Little front tries to come in from the north tomorrow. And then we go right back to the warm. but this is the big time front that's going to come blasting in here. That'll bring the temperature down and the dew points are going to crash as well.

The question is, is how much moisture is there going to be? And we'll watch that moving in here and then the dryer air punches in on the back side. European model and a couple other models we're looking at little bullish on trying to bring rain in. So we increase that for Friday night into Saturday. It's mainly in the morning on Saturday, but that's subject to change as well. So we'll see how that plays out. And then another dry stretch is coming our way. coming our way and by the way it doesn't look like a lot of rain if we get it at all.

There's that little front trying to come in from the north so 67 in South Hill to near 90 down in Fayetteville that front's going to come close and then kind of retreat a little bit and then as we go on to Friday those temperatures are really going to go right back up because the flow is coming in from the south and west. 89 at North Hills right now with the southwesternly breeze at 10 miles an hour. Most of us ride around that 90 degree mark out there including Roxborough, Southern Pines, Goldsbury, and also into Lewisburg as well. The dew points right now, not bad.

50's to near 60. I think they're going to go up a little bit as we go into the day tomorrow. So be ready for more of a sticky day tomorrow. 80 as you walk into the D-Pag tonight, maybe happy ending. That's a Tony Award winner, getting down to 71 by the time you're going to head on home. And into the school bus tomorrow morning, mainly fair skies in mid-60s. Jackets not required for tomorrow. And when the kids come home, it should be up close to 90 again.

Here's the front coming in. We'll be near 90, front blasts in. Again, the European model bullish on getting some showers out of this, but we're gonna be cooler for sure and a chilly breeze coming in from the north. So tonight we'll have low temperatures, mainly in the lower 60s.

We should be in the 50s. And then for tomorrow, high temperatures, 80s to near 90 once again. As you look to the north, we'll see some afternoon clouds, but a lot of sunshine farther to the south. Friday 88, but then here we go into the weekend. Got that chance at a shower,

mainly in the morning is that front comes in. Strong front, kind of moisture starve, though. But look at Sunday morning, 41 for us. But really nice Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, so most 70s, it's going to be great. Okay. You'll be happy because. I mean, you know, let's just keep the 80s and 90s in the summer. Okay.

Thank you, Steve. All right, well, it is that time of year, fall virus season. And when we come back, we'll tell you how you and your loved ones can get vaccinated for free. And the countdown is on. We're looking ahead. our 40th annual ABC 11 together food drive, how the state's growing population is impacting the need

over the years. And a reminder, you can find eyewitnesses live on ABC11, Disney Plus, and everywhere you stream. Time now for some news you can use. Fall virus season is upon us, and the Chatham County Public Health Department is offering flu and COVID shots. Flu shots are available at no cost

for both children and adults. COVID-19 vaccines are available at no cost to children through the vaccines for the children program. If you have insurance, your insurance provider will be billed, so you're asked to make an appointment ahead of time. Well, this Halloween, it is time to shred the dead. The city of Raleigh is helping you get rid of electronic waste. The Shred the Dead event will be held Saturday, October 24th from 9 a.m. to noon at the Wilders Grove Solid Waste Facility on Beacon Lake Drive. And you can bring electronic or paper items.

Officials say this year there will be a drive-through system to help with the drop-off process. And as the fall season gets underway, pumpkins are on display. across Wake County. The city of Raleigh's yard waste center will be collecting seasonal pumpkins and gourds for composting beginning this weekend through December the 12th, and you can drop off your pumpkins for free at the center on North New Hope Road during normal business hours. The city says you should not place them in your yard waste bin or biodegradable paper bags. And that is news you can use. Amber, back to you. All right, Barbara, we continue counting down to our 40th annual ABC 11 Together Food Drive and the growing

need over the years. Looking back over the past four decades, the state's population has grown from more than 6 million people to more than 11 million now, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. We asked early Middleton, a former food bank employee, how the needs have changed over the years to combat food insecurity, and what has stayed the same. I think the need is there, is still there, and we look at cycles. We have a government shutdown, people who have professional jobs, all of a sudden. they need food, they have never experienced this before. When a lot of changes were made at the federal level where people lost their jobs, they were seeking food at pantries, et cetera. And some of those people are still in the job market looking for employment. All donations support

the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina and the second Harvest Food Bank, Southeast North Carolina. The ABC 11 Together Food Drive kicks off November 18th. Coming up here, all new at community members rallying behind our local firefighters following the death of a Durham firefighter last week. How local businesses are planning to show their support to first responders this weekend as firefighter Andrew Brooks is laid to rest. And a merger pushback in Raleigh, wake med patients and employees are sounding the alarm about the hospital's plans to join Atrium Health. It comes as a state health plan is making changes to Atrium's coverage. We are Local News. ABC 11 eyewitness news continues now. Services for a Durham firefighter who died in the line of duty are set to begin on Friday in Burlington.

Andrew Brokes died last Thursday after a building caught fire and collapsed while firefighters were inside. John Dowding is joining us live from downtown Durham this afternoon. So John, not only are firefighters preparing for the services this weekend, but the Bull City community is as well. Yeah, Barbara, Amber, you guys always know that the Bull City community always shows up for their own. And this tragic situation is no different. several restaurants are going to be coming together to provide a space for firefighters. Staff from those restaurants told me that when they decided to do this, it was just a no-brainer for them.

We have a lot of regulars that are firefighters here, so just being there for them, supporting them, however they need. Preparations underway on Main Street in Durham Wednesday as the Bull City community prepares to say goodbye to a fallen firefighter. Andrew Brokes died last week after a building caught fire early Thursday morning and collapsed while he was inside. Chopper 11 capturing the somber moments when his fellow firefighters came to attention as his body was transported to the state medical examiner's office. He was a regular at the federal. I mean, the day it happened, we were actually we were supposed to host the union meeting that morning.

Got the call that union meeting was going to be put off. But we just still opened at 8 a.m. just for everybody to come gather, hang out, support each other. Staff at the federal restaurant keeping a bar stool empty with a small tribute left for Brooks. The federal James Joyce and the Max Jr. Mini, Mini, MART planning to host firefighters after the services Saturday. We're just going to be there support his family, his coworkers, the people that take care of us. The least we can do is take care of them.

They also told us that they're part of the community here, so it's just something they have to do. They're expecting between hundreds, if not thousands of firefighters to show up after the services there on Saturday. And we reached out to officials for an update into that investigation, into the building collapse and the fire. what we learned about that investigation so far and what we're learning about the other plans ahead of this weekend's memorial. All of that coming up right here at 5 live here in downtown Durham.

I'm John Dowding. ABC 11, eyewitness news. Not surprised about the amount expected John. That community is supportive and loyal and I know that they'll be there for that family. Thank you so much. New here at 4 eyewitness news asking questions after a Rocky Mount City Council meeting grew tense earlier this week when Mayor Sandy Robertson broke his gaveled during the public comment period. It happened while a woman, Teresa Stokes, was speaking about recent developments in the city,

including improvements to a park and train station. As Stokes spoke, she turned towards people in the audience and asked them to show respect. I'm speaking and I demand respect. And if you were to go to a courtroom and do outburst, no, if you wanna go to a courtroom and do outburst like that, when someone's speaking, you would not be here.

That's enough. So you want, I'm only telling the truth because this is. Well, Mayor Robertson, when Mayor Robertson struck his gavel, which broke, he said that's enough. That exchange followed an earlier public comment, urging the council to oppose selling the city's water resources to American water. We have reached out to the Rocky Mount City Council for a response on the incident and we are waiting to hear back. New it for a major shakeup and health coverage for North Carolina's teachers and state employees. ATRIM Health is about to move out of network for the state health plan. Starting in January, Atrium Health will be reclassified as out of network for most state health plan members.

The state treasurer announced the move today saying it is necessary to protect the plan from financial stress. The plan estimates that if Atrium continued as an in-network provider, the cost could quickly reach a quarter of a billion dollars. But here is the key detail. Atrium recently announced at his own affordability protection program pledging to ensure members continue receiving care at the lowest costs sharing available. If that happens, members should see no change in their out-of-pocket costs. All this comes as Atrium Health plans to merge with WakeMed, but there is growing pushback this afternoon. Patients and employees are now urging the state Attorney General to step in and take a hard look at the deal. Tamara Scott has more on what this

could mean for patients' wallets. This morning we heard from patients, also folks from the North Carolina Justice Center and the State Employees Association all making. the claim today that the public just does not have enough information about how this will impact their health care. Today they sent over this letter to the Attorney General's office here in North Carolina with four main ask for transparency before the Atrium WakeMed deal is finalized. Their demanding answers about the five-year price cap negotiated just before commissioners approved the merger. They also want to know how H-Chm's promised $2 billion investment will be funded and enforced. One major concern is the potential impact on health care costs. The group cite an estimate from the state health plan that premiums could increase by $84 to $132 a year per policy holder if WakeMed's rates rose to Atrium's current levels.

The county already gave the green light in a five to two vote last month. At the time, WakeMed and Atrium released a joint statement saying they've engaged in critical conversations about the future of health care in this region. Today there are concerns about how the deal was approved, including emails they say show H.TRIM CEO urging county commissioners to move forward with the vote. These are their questions. What are the final enforceable terms of the price cap? How will Atrium's $2 billion commitment be funded and verified? Will the charity care and debt collection protections be binding and for how long?

How was Atrium selected and were other proposals seriously considered? And what will this transaction mean? for prices, competition, and access to care across North Carolina. These questions matter to patients and workers, and they matter as well to federal regulators. I have reached out to the Attorney General's Office for comment on if they have received this letter and if they have any plans for public hearings at this point while they review the merger. I've not yet heard back. We will bring you an update as soon as we can.

Tamara Scott, ABC 11, eyewitness news. Tamara, thanks. We are getting our first look at the newest recipients for the order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina's highest civilian honor. Governor Josh Stein recognized 15 people today for their service to their community. The event was held at Greensboro's International Civil Rights Museum. The honorees include educators, public servants, and community leaders. And among the recipients were Michael Regan of Wake County. He's the former secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. Also, Bishop Larry Brown of Moore County, he is the minister at Taylor Towns

House of Prayer. Still ahead here 430, a group of Charlotte police officers are facing termination after they allegedly sent racist text messages. What we're learning about the investigation and how the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department is responding. And Duke Health is expanding outside of the triangle. The part of North Carolina, the health care system has its eyes set on for a new hospital. Covering the Carolinas right now at four, and there's growing fallout in Charlotte over racist text messages allegedly sent by Charlotte Mecklenburg police officers. The messages were found during an SBI investigation into former Charlotte officer who was arrested in July for misusing flock camera information. The six officers involved in the text messages have not been named as they are not charged with anything at this time, but the investigation is ongoing.

Happening now in Robinson County, construction is underway on a new I-95 bridge over the Lumber River in Lumberton. The NCDOT sharing this photo today is the crew's work to raise the bridge, which will now be 12. feet higher. This comes after hurricanes impacted that portion of I-95. In 2016, the bridge flooded in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, which forced the interstate to close. The project also includes widening that section of I-95 to eight lanes. Construction on the I-95 project is expected to be complete in 2029. New at Ford Duke Health is expanding to Mecklenburg County. It's part of the new partnership with Caromont Health to bring two new hospitals to that area. The two health systems are now looking to get state approval. The plan includes a 120 bed hospital in the university city area

and an 80 bed hospital in the River District of Charlotte. Officials say the new hospitals will address a critical need for more beds and also give families access to advanced care. Caramont Health and Duke Health expected decision by the end of March 27. Coming up next, final preparations are underway for the North Carolina State Fair. Yeah, less than 24 hours to go now and safety inspectors are making sure everything's ready for eager fairgoers for opening. day we've got tips from the Better Business Bureau on how you can save money at the fair too. Right now at four, it is the countdown on to the 2026 North Carolina State Fair. We're less than 24 hours away now until the fairground opens. And today, inspectors made the final safety checks

before the gates open tomorrow, specifically of the 155 food stands, food trucks, and also the tents. They looked at how food is being stored. Equipment used for food handling is cleaned and functioning properly. The fair kicks off tomorrow at noon. Be sure to stop by our ABC 11 booth while you're there. Before you make your way to the fair, though, we have some tips from the Better Business Bureau. When it comes to buying from vendors,

the Bureau says to get the company's refund and exchange policy in writing, check for certifications. All vendors should have a certification of registration on display. And finally, make purchases with a credit card because credit card companies have protections in place to return your money when you have been scanned. Now let's take a look at today's top training stories in real news, and today is all about spooky seasons. So first, let's take you to Disney's Halloween Town.

The filming location of the popular 1998 movie is celebrating its annual spirit of Halloween Town festivities. Giant jack-o' lantern, spooky characters all filling the streets of St. Helen's Oregon. Dozens of visitors traveling from all across the country to come to this. the spooky town there. And the spirit of Halloween coming to life in Vegas, a woman spotted Michael Myers on a horse there in Vegas. The woman filmed this as the legendary horror character waved to her. She, as he silently sat on his horse. She says she was just really excited because no one ever says hi to Michael in scary movies that she did. Now to Mississippi, this one is so funny. One family had a different kind of scare for people with their yard decorations. So

What's spookier than this? Ghosts, gas, bills, calories, mortgage payments, and quiet kids. One mother used these lawn signs to strike fear in the hearts of adults who understand every single one of these. She says every adult can relate to these things that are the real scary things in life, especially quiet kids. When the kids are little, that was always like, what are you guys doing in there? Where are you? Now it's when the dog's quiet, Barbara. Yes. They took something out of the trash.

Yes, quiet kids, quiet dogs. What are they up to? All right, very cute. All right, in entertainment news, season two of 911, Nashville is coming in hot on the red carpets. Ryan Chevroenny got the inside scoop from the stars during a recent set visit. 911, what's your emergency?

Please help us. They're everywhere. The hit Ryan Murphy drama, 9-1-Nashville, is back for another fiery season. When we had finished season one, it didn't feel like we were done. Like, I felt like we had a lot more stories to tell, and we left on a cliffhanger, and I felt like we laid a lot of groundwork for all the drama that will ensue this season. Season one left us right in the middle of the brawl between you and Jessica Kapshaw's character.

Is season two pick up right where we left off? We pick up a little bit a few weeks later, so you get to see kind of the aftermath of the whole thing and where they stand now. And, yeah, I mean, we're still not friends. Ryan Phillipie joins the cast as a mysterious New York detective. Who are you? That's her police.

It's a homicide detective doing here. I count three bodies on the ground. It's always fun to have new faces around, especially if they can stay for a while and really develop their characters. He's a detective from New York, so you've got the contrast of the yank coming into the south,

and, you know, comes. with a different attitude, different type of manner and approach. We've only had one scene with him so far and he showed up incredibly prepared, a team player. I just, I can't wait to work with him more. Hello? There's nowhere to hide for me. I see you here. There's a nefarious criminal in town that is being tracked and that's part of what

Kami and I are involved in. And so that's going to be a story that develops throughout the season. I'm sort of putting on a detective hat, which I think I did a little bit last season, too. I think she likes to get involved in figuring things out. I'm Ryan Chevroarini for On the Red Carpet. A lot of drama coming on. Drama. Drama.

There's some drama around here. No doubt. The wasp is back. Yeah, he is. Oh, he's just crawled off. I think there's a few of them. I think there's a little nest on that camera. Probably.

Let's sit Don down there to clean it out. How about that? Yeah. He can scare it. Add that to a situation. do list. Honey do list. So we did hit 90. Yeah, we talked about that. It's not officially on the graphic yet that comes down just after 5 o'clock. But yeah, already you hit 90. A lot of 90s. I mean, South Hill, Rocksboro, Irwin, Smithfield, Goldsboro, probably down in Fayetteville as well.

We don't know that for sure just yet. But that means 80 times we've done it this year. On average, about 45. So yeah, it's been very hot. And we could do it again tomorrow or come close to it. More record highs are expected the next couple of days. So it'll be really warm tomorrow. tomorrow out there at the state fair is the opening day shorts and t-shirts fine should be a fantastic evening though and then jackets will be needed as we head into the weekend all that heat that we have with this ridge of high pressure a big trough is coming in opening the door to some chilly air and the breeze is going to pick up as well you'll be shocked just how cool it's going to get as we go on the Saturday at the state fair tomorrow we climb up to near 90 degrees at three o'clock and then the numbers come down late evening hours in the low 70s going to be pretty nice overall up in the state fair tomorrow up in the state fair tomorrow up in the the mountains this weekend. Banner Elk might get a little wintry mix there, but otherwise should be just fine, but really cool. 42 in Banner Elk for the high temperature, pretty darn chilly. 60s tonight, clear skies. We should be in the low 50s, and then tomorrow, upper 80s to near 90 again. Farther north, you live, better chance at seeing some of those clouds. Still hot and breezy on Friday, chilly on Saturday with that breeze, and there isn't risk but get a shower in the morning. Sunday, not bad with sunshine, and next week looks fantastic. Here's Lauren. John.

with it. What's coming up at five? Hey Lauren. Hey, Steve, his family and friends of fallen firefighter, Andrew Brokes prepare for his funeral. We're learning new information about the fire that took his life. Brookes was inside a burning building when that roof collapsed while he was trying to rescue other people. Everything costs more money these days from food to gas to grocery, so that means more spending and less savings. What we're learning about Americans and retirement, the question, are we ready? Fact or fiction as we continue to cover Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're talking about mammograms tonight. we're talking about one long-held belief that could keep women from getting those necessary screenings. And in light of that deadly roller coaster death at Six Flags Over Georgia,

we're taking a closer look at safety. As investigators look more closely into why the man fell to his death, we're offering tips on how you can keep yourself safe on your ride. And kids helping kids at Duke Children's Hospital today, a special delivery for those young patients there, more on the new gear to make them feel brave when we see you next for the news at 5 o'clock, Barbara and Amber. then Lauren, thanks. Coming up here at 4 o'clock Catholics around the world are, of course, praying for Pope Leo following his cancer diagnosis.

After the break, we've got reaction from our local Catholic community. Here's tonight's ABC Primetime Preview. At 8.7 Central, it's an all-new episode of Scrubs. J.D. Uncovers a costly mistake made by Best Pal Turk. Then it's Abbott Elementary at 83730 Central. Gregory is having some trouble juggling both his jobs as teacher and assistant principal. I think he learns ultimately that you can't do both. He's going to have to pick which side of the teacher or administrator he wants to be. At 9-8 Central, who wants to be a millionaire sees Billy Porter and Leslie Odom Jr. team up. Then Timothy Simons and Jackie Tone take their turn in the hot seat.

Then at 10-9 Central, Mindy Kaling steps into the tank as a guest shark on shark tank. That's followed by your late local news, then Jimmy Kim alive with guests, Adam Brody and Tom Reese Harris. I