ABC11 Eyewitness News - Eyewitness News at Noon - April 21, 2026

Episode Date: April 21, 2026

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Right now on I witness news at noon, the Raleigh Police Chief today addressing recent violent crime in the Capitol City. Tamara Scott is live with how the chief plans to keep residents safe. And Governor Josh Stein today laying out his priorities and his new budget proposal and it comes as lawmakers return for a short session. Plus you maintain you'll be independent of Perth and Trump? Yes, Senator, I do. Testifying on Capitol Hill will have the latest there. It is the news at noon. See what's happening this instant. ABC 11 eyewitness news starts right now.

Good Tuesday afternoon. Thanks for joining us here at 12. I'm Amber Repenta. And I'm Barbara Gibbs. After a cold and frosty start this morning, temperatures are on their way up. Meteorologist Cruz Medeina joins us now with the forecast. Hey, Cruz. Hey there, yeah, temperatures this afternoon are going to top out in the 60s. So it'll be a little cool just like it was yesterday.

But if you're missing the warmer weather, we've also got 80s in the forecast starting tomorrow and lasting all the way through this weekend. So middle to upper 80s for Wednesday and Thursday. Today, obviously falling just a little bit below average with tipgers in the upper 60s. But for this afternoon, at least it's going to be comfortable if you're out walking the dog, we'll have plenty of sunshine as well. All in all, a great day to be outside. We'll have a light breeze throughout today as well. And then tonight the winds will turn out of the south.

So that's what's going to help us start to warm up into those 80s. So we drop into the 40s tonight. Remember this morning, some of you even had frost as tipters dropped into the 30s. So it's slightly milder. We're trending in the right direction. And so heading out the door tomorrow, yes, it'll be a bit chilly, but you'll at least have sunshine. The sunshine and those south winds will warm us up into the mid-70s by noon tomorrow. And then afternoon highs will range just a little bit, not as drastic as it'll be today.

We'll have low 80s in our northern counties and then mid-80s down into sand hills. Raleigh, your high is 84 degrees. And today and tomorrow will both be dry days. So we could really use some rain. Looking back to last September, the day. deficit that we're in up to that time is almost 15 inches of rain. So 14.95 inches of rain is what we need to close the gap on this drought. And it looks like we do have a rain chance in the forecast for this weekend. We'll talk about the details of that coming up in your seven-day forecast. Back to you.

All right, Cruz, thank you. Well, New at Noon-Ralee Police, Chief Rico Boyce is holding a news conference to talk about the recent violence, including the shooting at Triangle Town Center. Chief Boyce saying that the crime problem cannot be solved without help from the community. Tamara Scott is live at RPD downtown with more details. Hi, Tamara. Hey, good afternoon, guys. Chief of boys opened up this press conference this morning by saying that Raleigh is a safe city. And the recent violent crimes are not a representation of what the city has to offer, but did acknowledge that that residents feeling uneasy or not having that sense of security is a problem that needs to be addressed. So in his address this morning, he started off and announced

by saying that they're addressing these issues at the source. So far this year, they have seized 474 illegal guns. They're also promoting safe gun storage and their strengthening partnerships with ALE and the Wake County ABC and resources in downtown nightlife areas. Now, recent juvenile crime data shows that delinquent complaints involving youth, ages 6 to 17, dropped about 4.2% from 2024. But we have seen recent incidents of violent crime.

Last Friday, three people were shot at Triangle Town Center after police say a verbal altercation turned violent. And over the weekend, a man was killed in a shooting at a Raleigh apartment. Now, Chief Bose noted that the public safety is a shared responsibility and that his department is continually embracing youth programs to keep young people out of trouble and on the right path. If we save just one child from a life of violence, that's success. Bringing these collective partners together is going to augment. how effective we are in the community. The more we can partner with our public safety partners and our community and reach more kids, that's going to have an impact on our safety here in the capital city.

And Chief Boyce went on to say that as we enter into the summer months, that it is everyone's responsibility to stay safe and keep an eye out. And if you see something wrong going on to speak up, about you. All right, Tamara Scott, thank you for that. New at noon now, Governor Josh Stein today announcing his recommended by for next year. North Carolina is the only state in the country without a budget. That means teachers and state employees have not received a pay raise. And the Medicaid program is at risk of funding out running out of funding. Michael Perchick joins us now live. Michael, good afternoon to you.

What's the governor requesting now? Good afternoon, Amber and Parba. Those points emphasize during this morning's press conference led by Governor Stein. At the top of his budget proposal is $2.3 billion toward public education, early learning and child care, calling for an average teacher pay raise of 11% with a separate money earmarked towards school resource officers, health personnel, and school safety grants. Further, he's calling for the general assembly to freeze the current individual income tax rate at 3.99% and eliminate tax reduction triggers, expressing concern about funding or future funding shortfalls. Then there's a focus on jobs in the economy, nearly $450 million towards efforts to strengthen workforce development, access to apprenticeships, and promote small. business growth. Stein says the state's fast-rising population has only increased the need for fast action. We have added 325,000 new residents to North Carolina, seen 6 to 8% inflation,

suffered the worst natural disaster in state history, and experienced a federal government placing unprecedented unfunded mandates on state and local governments. We cannot simply stand still and hope for the best. Now the governor says he's been in contact with House Speaker Dessen Holland, Senate President Phil Berger about these budget requests coming up this afternoon. We'll take a closer look at what else this report entails, plus where the legislator stands on those negotiations at this juncture. In Raleigh, I'm Michael Pertshire, ABC 11, eyewitness news.

Hi, Michael, thank you. We're following breaking economic news. A record spike in gas prices appears to be driving up the cost of other. products. A new Commerce Department report shows retail sales jumped 1.7% in March. That is a percentage point higher than in February and the fastest monthly rise since January of 2023. The retail numbers are not adjusted for inflation. That means they reflect both spending and price increases. The cost of gas and oil are both up and the war with Iran impacts the strait of four moves. New at noon, the confirmation today for President Trump's nominee to

lead the Federal Reserve. Kevin Warsh today facing a bipartisan opposition. during his Senate confirmation hearing. North Carolina Senator Tom Tillis has vowed not to advance Warsh's nomination for a vote until the Department of Justice drops or resolves the investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell. That probe threatens to derail or delay Warsh's nomination. If we put everybody in prison in federal government that had had a budget go over, we'd have to reserve an area roughly the size of Texas for a penal colony colony because of way government projects work. And the reality is the overage of inflation

adjusted was about $730 million, the majority of which it seems to be legitimate. Hearing from Senator Tom Tillis there, Powell, who was appointed by Trump in 2017, has rebuked the probe as a politically motivated effort to influence interest rate policy. And lawmakers today are seeking assurances from Warsh that the Fed will remain independent and it will set interest rates based on economic conditions, even if it puts him out of step with President Trump's wishes. Today, Durham Mayor Leo Williams will lay out his vision for the Bull City during his state of the city address. He's expected to talk about a variety of topics, including crime, homelessness, mental health, and rising costs. His speech is happening at the Durham

Performing Arts Center. The doors open at 5 o'clock, and the program starts at 6. Today, Wake County families have another chance to provide input on the school district's budget. The board is holding a public hearing during its meeting at 5. 30 tonight. And we know educators will hold a rally before then, calling for more funding for schools and special education. And you can read more about the budget proposal right now on ABC11.com. Durham Public Schools is making May 1st an optional teacher workday. The district says it has received a large number of leave requests. And the staff absences would lead to unsafe operations. A number of other districts have closed May 1st as well. As the North Carolina Association of Educators encourages teachers to call out of work, teachers are planning to rally at the legislative

building that day calling for more state funding for public education. The Hillsborough man charged with killing his longtime housekeeper is expected back in court today. 54-year-old Matthew Vuckmer is being held without bond in Orange County. The sheriff's office says Buckler's wife called police on March the 6th after finding the couple's housekeeper Paula Floyd murdered on the floor of their home. Buckmer took off to Virginia, was picked up by authorities at the couple's vacation home there, and he could face the death penalty or life without parole. if convicted. Meantime, NC State is investigating a reported rape on campus. According to a

wolf alert, the alleged rape happened Sunday at Bragaul Hall. Details are limited right now, but we do know police have a suspect. However, that person has not yet been arrested. Happening today, the debate over data centers is being taken up in Orange County. County Commissioner's holding a public hearing during the board meeting at 7 o'clock tonight. The county is considering a one-year moratorium on data centers, cryptocurrency, mining facilities, and other similar buildings. Sanford is also holding a public hearing on data centers tonight. The city currently has no land use regulations addressing data centers,

so they are considering a set of rules to support public infrastructure and ensure accountability in case and application comes in. Tonight's meeting starts at five. Happening today, residents of Cary Mobile Home Park are set to deliver a letter to a developer adding for financial help in relocating families families who have been told that they need to leave by June to make way for new apartments and townhomes. Some have lived in this community for more than 20 years. The town of Kerry has pledged $800,000 to help offset the moving costs.

Residents are asking the new property owners for another $2 million. The ceasefire between the United States and Iran is set to expire tomorrow. Vice President J.D. Vance is expected to travel to Pakistan for a last-ish effort of negotiations. But there are questions about whether Iran plans to attend. And a deadly shooting at one of Mexico's most popular tourist destination. Six Americans were among the injured. That story two minutes away. And Amazon is being accused of price fixing in a new lawsuit filed by the Attorney General of California.

Why the online retail giant allegedly coerced rival retailers like Walmart, Target, and Home Depot to raise prices. That story new at 1230. The ride that steals the spotlight every time it hits the road, that's the Volkswagen TIG-1. Its sleek exterior makes a first impression, yes. you can't ignore. Step inside to find available full leather seats and wood accents. Under the hood, the available 201 turbocharged horse power engine gives it a fun to drive edge. The refined Tiguan, you deserve more style. Visit vw.ca to learn more. SuvW, German engineered for all. Eyewitness News. We are Local News Weeknights 4 to 630 and 11.

Now to a pivotal day in the war with Iran. New peace talks are scheduled in Pakistan, but the big question now is will Iran negotiate and show up? ABC's Christian Cordero has the latest. Today, with the clock ticking on the U.S. and Iran's fragile ceasefire, U.S. officials say Vice President J.D. Vance is expected to travel to Pakistan for a second round of negotiations. Iran's government says it is willing to participate if talks are conducted with courtesy, respect and recognition of the other side. Though it's unclear if an Iranian delegation plans to come to the table in Pakistan.

When asked what happens if there isn't at least a prospect of a deal by tomorrow night, the president telling CNBC this. Well, I expect to be bombing because I think that's a better attitude to go in with, but we're ready to go. I mean, the military is rarer in to go. President Trump is trying to up the pressure, insisting he is not interested in extending the ceasefire. The president adds if no long-term deal,

is reached by tomorrow, quote, lots of bombs start going off. Iran with threats of its own says it's prepared to reveal new cards on the battlefield. And overnight, the U.S. military seized another Iranian-linked ship, this time in the Indo-Pacific. Troops repelled from helicopters and bordered what the Defense Department says was a sanctioned vessel as it bows to crack down on any ship supporting Iran's efforts. Regarding the war's impact on gas prices, U.S. oil exports are surging, but even those numbers fall well short of what passed through the Strait of Hormuz before the war started, leading analysts to believe gas prices will not change until the strait reopens. Cristiano Cordero, ABC News, Washington.

Well, Mexico's government says a Canadian tourist has been killed and 13 other people injured when a man opened fire at Mexico's historic Teotihuacan Pyramids. The tourist site is still north of Mexico's capital. The shooter identified as a 27-year-old Mexican man later died from a self-inflicted gunshot. shot wound, the Mexican president, has sent her condolences. Well, just ahead on eyewitness news at noon, we'll take you to a ceremony today to highlight two major projects in downtown Raleigh, that story in two minutes. And a school underwater, incredible video of flood damage inside an elementary school in Wisconsin. There's more to life than finding the perfect car. But finding the perfect car can help you get the most out of life. Like the SUV that handles everything from drop off to

road and the car that hulls groceries and hockey teams or the van that's gone from just practical to practically family whatever you want wherever you're going start your search at ototrater dot ca canada's car marketplace happening today the start of work zone awareness week state officials honoring those killed along north carolina roadways including workers drivers pedestrians and law enforcement The theme for the 2026 National Works on Awareness Week is safe actions, save lives. Well, at noon, a big celebration in downtown Raleigh, the city is showing off improvements to Lichten Plaza outside the Martin Marietta Center for the performing arts. So the space has now been redesigned to enhance accessibility, expand green space, and create a more welcoming arrival experience. Sean Coffey has the details.

The opening of this new plaza is really the first step in the reimagined southern end of Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh. and city officials say it will serve as a more accessible, convenient doorstep for the Performing Arts Center. Mayor Janet Cowell was joined by several city counselors, Raleigh Parks employees, and tourism officials this morning. As they held a ribbon cutting for the new Lichten Plaza. Right across the street, construction continues on the future Omni Hotel, which is slated to open in 2028. Representatives from Omni provided new renderings that show what that huge hotel complex will look like, saying will include 600 rooms, a 20,000 square foot ballroom and 60,000 square feet of meeting. space. I think the connection to the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, the connection

to the convention center and to be, again, at sort of the center of town, that serves a great purpose for us and for the city. So we all know that we've needed more hotel rooms. I remember when Dreamville was here and we, you know, we maxed out every hotel in the county. So making sure that we are taking the hotel motel tax, reinvesting that into these kinds of projects to build our tourist capacity. The size of the future Omni will also allow the city of Raleigh to stack multiple events over at the convention center at the same time. We know the convention center is, of course, undergoing its own expansion project.

Once that hotel opens, it'll be the third Omni in North Carolina. In Raleigh, Sean Coffey, ABC 11, eyewitness news. Looks great, Sean, thank you. And now look at this stunning video showing water breaching a school cafeteria door and flooding Washington Elementary School in Janesville, Wisconsin. It happened during severe weather on Friday. Water rose several feet causing extensive damage. School officials say that they expect the elementary school to be closed for the foreseeable future.

Wow. All right. Meteorologist Cruz Medina is here. Talk about the forecast. We look at all that water because of severe weather. And that's kind of what can happen here when you get in the situation like we're in. You're so dry. You need rainfall and sometimes that's what happens. Yep.

And getting too much rainfall in a short amount of time could be dangerous. So we need rain, but we don't need rain of that caliber. We need it to gradually come to help to alleviate these drought conditions that we've been experiencing. But it's going to be dried today. It's going to be cooler today. Tomorrow is also dry, but tomorrow's the start of a warm up. And so with all of these dry conditions, you can imagine the drought is going to get worse before it gets better. Thankfully, we have at least some rain in the forecast over the next seven days.

That's going to come throughout this weekend. And I'll show you what to expect here in just tomorrow. moment. But for this afternoon, expect it to be slightly below average. If you can think back to yesterday afternoon and how it felt, that's basically how it's going to feel outside today. We'll have a lot of sunshine. Tipters will range from the middle to upper 60s. So if you're heading out for a walk, nice day for that. First alert predictor will walk us through the rest of today. And notice there's not going to be a lot of clouds throughout the daytime hours. Now through tonight, there could be a few passing clouds and some of those will be around as you wake up tomorrow as

well, but tipters will be in the upper 40s. So about 10 degrees warmer than where we started the day today. And then for the afternoon, it'll be significantly warmer than today with tipters pushing into the low and mid 80s across the region with partly cloudy sky. So back to this evening. Your evening hours are also going to be somewhat mild in the 60s. Once the sun sets, because the sky's mainly going to be clear, tipters are going to fall pretty quickly. So by 10 p.m. we should be in the 50s. Now tonight, with a mainly clear sky and just a few showers out there. There's something pretty cool that you can see in the sky.

The peak of the Lyrid meteor showers tonight. So if you look to the eastern sky in complete darkness, so you have to get away from the city lights. You could see 15, maybe 20 meteors per hour. So if you're interested in that tonight, know that you'll probably need a jacket if you are planning to venture outdoors. Now for tomorrow, we start off a little chilly.

The afternoon though, you're definitely not going to need a jacket as tipped your sore into the 80s. Tomorrow is shorts weather if you choose and from there it's just going to keep getting warmer. So as high pressure slides right over us, that's going to help to start the warm up. By the time we get into Thursday, our winds will be out of the south as high pressures then to our south. And that puts us in the upper half of the 80s. So those warm conditions are going to linger through this weekend. But thankfully, even though it's going to be warm, it's not going to be humid.

So this is a drier heat. It's going to feel pleasant outdoors even into this weekend when the humidity rises just. just a little bit, still kind of in that comfy category. And so it's not going to be a summer time heat where it's all muggy and nasty outside. This week is going to feel pretty refreshing. So middle to upper 80s, Wednesday all the way through this weekend. We've got the Dogwood Fest. We've got the ALS walk.

Lots of outdoor events. So if you're heading to those, just know that Saturday there will be some late day showers. Could be a few of those that linger into Sunday. But temperatures then will be cooler back in the 70s. Back to you. Up and down continues. But 80s are back tomorrow. All right, Chris noted.

Thank you. Voters in Virginia head to the polls today to decide whether to redraw the state's congressional maps. We'll have the details just ahead. And a Louisiana community holding a vigil to remember the eight children killed over the weekend. And today marks one year since the death of Hook Francis, knew at 1230, how the faithful are remembering the late haunting.

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It's amazing. It is so amazing. The Shreveport community, he, holding a prayer vigil to mourn and support the families after a mass shooting that killed eight children ages three to 11. A makeshift memorial has formed outside the home where the mass shooting happened. You can see bright colored bears and balloons being left to honor the lives lost. Police believe Shamar Elkins, the father of seven of the children, was the gunmen. He allegedly also shot his wife and his girlfriend and both women are expected to survive. Happening today, Virginia voters will decide on a new congressional map ahead of the the midterm elections, Democrats say the proposal could flip four Republican-held seats,

potentially giving them control of 10 out of Virginia's 11 House districts. Supporters argue the changes are needed to counter-Republican-led redistricting efforts in states like Texas, but critics say the map abandons nonpartisan redistricting principles, basically shutting out any Republican voice in the entire state. A woman who was assaulted by an Uber driver in Raleigh wins her lawsuit. Find out how much the rideshare company must pay. And fans. Struggling struggling to make ends meet are getting some much needed help. Brand new at 1230, DeWan Hogarth shows us how the food bank is preparing a million meals.