Six adults were taken to area hospitals with serious but non-life-threatening injuries after a fight between two groups on Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh; several others were arrested on the scene, and the investigation is ongoing.
A raccoon captured near Western Boulevard and Pullen Road in Raleigh tested positive for rabies. Animal control and Wake County health officials advise residents to avoid unknown animals, ensure pets are vaccinated, keep outdoor pets indoors until booster shots, do not feed stray animals, secure trash, and report unusual animal behavior to 919-831-6311. A rabies case was also reported in Chapel Hill earlier in March.
Urban residents in Raleigh, North Carolina are turning to guided “forest bathing” sessions at the J.C. Raulston Arboretum to decompress from the nonstop news cycle, using nature and mindful activities to reduce stress.
The National Weather Service issued a level 3 enhanced risk for Monday as the Triangle and much of North Carolina could see scattered storms during late morning to early afternoon, followed by a squall line capable of damaging winds and isolated tornadoes. Expect 0.5–1 inch of rain and winds around 30–35 mph even outside storms. The alert comes after five tornadoes hit eastern NC on Thursday, underscoring ongoing risk and the need for warning access.
North Carolina gas prices continued to rise as oil markets react to Middle East tensions, with the state average around $3.22 per gallon and Raleigh near $3.29 after an overnight uptick; the national average was about $3.41 as crude oil climbed above $90 per barrel due to Iran-related supply concerns through the Strait of Hormuz, and WRAL is tracking prices to help residents budget.
Raleigh remains snow-free as a dry slot between a cold-air system and coastal moisture keeps precipitation at bay; forecasters say the two systems will collide late Saturday, bringing about 2–5 inches of snow by Sunday.
An 18-year-old Raleigh, North Carolina, Austin Thompson pleaded guilty to five counts of first-degree murder, attempted murder, two counts of assault with a deadly weapon, and assault on a law enforcement officer for fatally shooting his brother and four neighbors during a 2022 rampage in the Hedingham neighborhood. A Raleigh police officer was among the victims, and Thompson survived a self-inflicted gunshot wound after being pursued. A February 2 sentencing hearing could yield life without parole, as he was a minor at the time of the crimes.
Forecasters warn of a wintry storm heading for central North Carolina this weekend, with Raleigh-area snow totals potentially ranging from a few inches to as much as 8 inches and a wintry mix of freezing rain possible; the National Weather Service cautioned of moderate impacts (50%–60%), while forecasts from major outlets vary on exact amounts; temperatures are expected to dip into the 20s by the weekend, with teens at night.
Several stores in Raleigh and Durham, including Legacy Oriental Rugs, Macy's at Triangle Town Center, and Loft at The Streets at Southpoint, are closing due to reasons such as lease non-renewals and business restructuring, with last days for shopping approaching.
A beloved North Carolina teacher, Zoe Welsh, was killed during a home invasion while on the phone with 911, and the suspect, Ryan Camacho, was charged with her murder and felony burglary. The incident has shocked the local community, and support resources are being provided.
A Raleigh teacher, Zoe Welsh, was killed during a home invasion after calling 911 to report an intruder; the suspect, Ryan Camacho, was quickly apprehended and charged with murder and felony burglary, prompting community mourning and support efforts.
Clyde Cooper's BBQ is moving to a new location in Quail Corners, Raleigh, with an opening expected soon, and other local restaurant updates include new openings, closures, and events across the Triangle area.
Starting January 1, 2026, Raleigh will enforce new noise limits for bars, restaurants, and clubs, with varying decibel levels based on location and time, to reduce noise disturbances and protect residents' health. Residents can file complaints online, and violators face warnings and fines, with stricter penalties for repeated violations.
Ashley Christensen's Beasley's Chicken + Honey, a beloved downtown Raleigh restaurant known for its Southern fried chicken, will close on January 25, 2026, due to changes in the downtown dining landscape post-pandemic, with no plans for a new concept in its place.