Latest News
Unseasonable heat drives demand at Wilmington shelter
Unseasonably hot temperatures pushed more people indoors across the Cape Fear region Friday, as local shelters reported an increase in demand for relief from the heat.
Multiple arrests made in Tabor City drug and firearm investigation
A months-long narcotics investigation in Columbus County has led to multiple arrests and the seizure of drugs and firearms, according to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.
Alec Baldwin to face civil trial over alleged negligence in deadly 'Rust' shooting
Alec Baldwin will face trial in a civil case alleging he negligently fired a gun on the set of "Rust," killing the film's cinematographer, a judge ruled on Friday.
What to know about the high school 'senior assassin' water gun game police departments are warning about
Police across the country are urging high schoolers to exercise caution in playing a popular so-called "assassin" water gun game, after the activity caused a scare in several communities.
Trader Joe's customers may be eligible for money after $7.4M settlement over receipt data
Trader Joe's has agreed to pay $7.4 million to settle a class action lawsuit that accused the grocery store of putting customers at risk of potential identity theft.
Thalian Hall to host free Community Day featuring tours, demonstrations and early ticket access
Thalian Hall will open its doors to the public for its annual Community Day on April 25 from Thalian Hall will open its doors to the public for its annual Community Day on Saturday, April 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering free admission, behind-the-scenes tours, and early access to tickets for the upcoming 2026–27 season.
Boil water advisory issued for parts of Dawson Street and surrounding areas
The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) has issued a precautionary boil water advisory beginning at 9 p.m. Monday, April 20, affecting approximately 115 customers in parts of Wilmington while crews complete water system repairs.
Patriot Roofing & Exteriors wins multiple honors at MAX! Awards
Patriot Roofing & Exteriors earned multiple top honors at this year’s MAX! Awards, hosted by the Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association, while one of its team members received individual recognition for outstanding marketing leadership.
Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz, but Trump says blockade on Iranian ships and ports will stay in force
Iran said Friday it fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, but President Donald Trump said the American blockade on Iranian ships and ports “will remain in full force” until Tehran reaches a deal with the U.S., including on its nuclear program.
Cape Fear River Watch to host practice hearing ahead of PFAS public meeting
Cape Fear River Watch is inviting community members to prepare for an upcoming public hearing with a practice session focused on PFAS contamination and community advocacy.
City of Wilmington to launch community engagement for new 25-acre public park
The City of Wilmington is inviting residents to help shape the future of a new public park during a community engagement event scheduled for May 2.
Home shopping pioneer QVC plans bankruptcy protection filing
The owner of home shopping network pioneer QVC — which for years garnered the attention of millions of TV viewers looking for a deal on baubles and housewares, is planning to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Don Schlitz, storied country songwriter behind such hits as 'The Gambler,' dies at 73
Don Schlitz, the storied country music songwriter known for such hits as “The Gambler,” “On the Other Hand” and “Forever and Ever, Amen,” died Thursday at a Nashville hospital. He was 73.
Ford recalls nearly 1.4 million F-150 pickup trucks due to gearshift issue
Ford Motor Company is recalling nearly 1.4 million F-150 pickup trucks due to a gearshift issue that can increase the risk of a crash, according to a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Freeman Park to temporarily close as beach nourishment project wraps up in Carolina Beach
The Town of Carolina Beach has announced a temporary closure of Freeman Park as crews begin demobilization for the town’s 2026 beach nourishment project.
Children’s Museum to host hands-on Science at Play event Saturday
Families in the Cape Fear region will have a chance to take part in hands-on science activities this weekend during a special event at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington.
Alligator rescued from Southport bank drive-thru after being struck by vehicle
SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) -- For the second time this week, Southport officers and animal protective services responded to safely capture a large alligator--this time in an unusual location. Authorities were called around 4 p.m. Thursday to the Truist Bank…
A 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon goes into effect
BEIRUT (AP) — A 10-day truce appeared to be holding in Lebanon early Friday, promising a pause in fighting between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group and possibly clearing one major obstacle to a deal between Iran and the United States and Israel to end weeks of devastating war.
Azalea Festival brings economic boost to Wilmington
One week after the 79th annual North Carolina Azalea Festival wrapped up in Wilmington, organizers and community leaders are highlighting the event’s strong turnout and economic impact.
Alligator activity on the rise
As temperatures rise across southeastern North Carolina, wildlife officials say alligators are becoming more active — and in some cases, showing up in unexpected places.
Nifty Thrifty Thrift Shop opens second location in Wilmington
A local thrift store celebrated the grand opening of its second location Friday in Wilmington.
Celebration bell installed at Novant Health cancer institute to mark patient milestones
A new celebration bell is now installed outside the Novant Health Zimmer Cancer Institute, offering cancer patients and their families a way to recognize milestones throughout their treatment journeys.
Unseasonable heat drives demand at Wilmington shelter
Unseasonably hot temperatures pushed more people indoors across the Cape Fear region Friday, as local shelters reported an increase in demand for relief from the heat.
Multiple arrests made in Tabor City drug and firearm investigation
A months-long narcotics investigation in Columbus County has led to multiple arrests and the seizure of drugs and firearms, according to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.
Trader Joe's customers may be eligible for money after $7.4M settlement over receipt data
Trader Joe's has agreed to pay $7.4 million to settle a class action lawsuit that accused the grocery store of putting customers at risk of potential identity theft.
Thalian Hall to host free Community Day featuring tours, demonstrations and early ticket access
Thalian Hall will open its doors to the public for its annual Community Day on April 25 from Thalian Hall will open its doors to the public for its annual Community Day on Saturday, April 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering free admission, behind-the-scenes tours, and early access to tickets for the upcoming 2026–27 season.
Boil water advisory issued for parts of Dawson Street and surrounding areas
The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) has issued a precautionary boil water advisory beginning at 9 p.m. Monday, April 20, affecting approximately 115 customers in parts of Wilmington while crews complete water system repairs.
Patriot Roofing & Exteriors wins multiple honors at MAX! Awards
Patriot Roofing & Exteriors earned multiple top honors at this year’s MAX! Awards, hosted by the Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association, while one of its team members received individual recognition for outstanding marketing leadership.
Cape Fear River Watch to host practice hearing ahead of PFAS public meeting
Cape Fear River Watch is inviting community members to prepare for an upcoming public hearing with a practice session focused on PFAS contamination and community advocacy.
City of Wilmington to launch community engagement for new 25-acre public park
The City of Wilmington is inviting residents to help shape the future of a new public park during a community engagement event scheduled for May 2.
Freeman Park to temporarily close as beach nourishment project wraps up in Carolina Beach
The Town of Carolina Beach has announced a temporary closure of Freeman Park as crews begin demobilization for the town’s 2026 beach nourishment project.
Children’s Museum to host hands-on Science at Play event Saturday
Families in the Cape Fear region will have a chance to take part in hands-on science activities this weekend during a special event at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington.
Alligator rescued from Southport bank drive-thru after being struck by vehicle
SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) -- For the second time this week, Southport officers and animal protective services responded to safely capture a large alligator--this time in an unusual location. Authorities were called around 4 p.m. Thursday to the Truist Bank…
N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher to close for 30-month expansion
The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher will close to the public beginning May 26 as construction gets underway on a major renovation and expansion project that will transform the facility into the largest aquarium in the state.
New Target in Myrtle Grove set to open May 17
A new Target store in the Myrtle Grove area is set to open May 17.
What's happening across the Cape Fear this weekend
Spring is officially in full swing, and if you're looking to get out of the house and soak up that sunshine, there are plenty of events that you and the whole family can enjoy this weekend.
Near record temperatures expected today
Temperatures will reach into the upper 80s today with the hot weather continuing this weekend.
Wilmington Municipal Golf Course adapts irrigation system to manage water use during dry conditions
At the Wilmington Municipal Golf Course, superintendent Matthew Smith said the facility, commonly known as “the Muni,” has taken proactive steps to prepare for periods of drought.
Nifty Thrifty Thrift Shop opens second location in Wilmington
A local thrift store celebrated the grand opening of its second location Friday in Wilmington.
Celebration bell installed at Novant Health cancer institute to mark patient milestones
A new celebration bell is now installed outside the Novant Health Zimmer Cancer Institute, offering cancer patients and their families a way to recognize milestones throughout their treatment journeys.
Duke announces contract extension with football coach Manny Diaz through 2031 season
Duke has agreed to a contract extension with football coach Manny Diaz through the 2031 season, coming after Diaz led the Blue Devils to their first outright Atlantic Coast Conference title in 63 years.
Amazon Prime Video stream of Heat-Hornets play-in game has 'technical difficulties'
Amazon Prime Video's stream of the Miami-Charlotte play-in game went offline for nearly two minutes during the overtime period, causing fans to miss a Hornets possession.
North Carolina IT job growth outpaces national trends, report finds
Information technology job postings in North Carolina increased significantly over the past year, outpacing national growth, according to new data released Tuesday by the NC Technology Association.
Smoke across Cape Fear area likely linked to South Carolina fire
Residents across the Cape Fear region are reporting smoke and smoky odors in the air, prompting calls and messages to local officials.
SpaceX launch visible across the Cape Fear region
A SpaceX rocket launch was visible across parts of southeastern North Carolina on Tuesday, with viewers in the Wilmington area capturing video of the bright streak moving across the sky.
Tar Heels' Caleb Wilson makes 1-and-done leap official as top NBA prospect
North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson is headed to the NBA draft after what he called “the most fun year of my life” playing for the Tar Heels.
N.C. Department of State Treasurer expands use of Artificial Intelligence across operations
The North Carolina Department of State Treasurer has announced a broad rollout of artificial intelligence tools across its operations, following a year-long pilot program that officials say improved productivity and efficiency.
Band of Oz member killed in I-95 crash in Harnett County
A well-known beach music performer was killed early Saturday morning in a crash on Interstate 95 in Dunn that shut down traffic for several hours.
Tabor City police search for fugitive, urge residents to secure homes
Police in Tabor City are searching for a fugitive wanted on multiple felony charges and are urging nearby residents to take precautions.
Viral video in Wilmington puts spotlight on elder care concerns, reporting of abuse
A viral video showing an elderly Wilmington man wandering in the street wearing only a T-shirt and an adult diaper is drawing attention to the issue of elder care and how to identify and report potential abuse or neglect.
Dozens of azaleas planted at Long Leaf Park during Plant an Azalea Week
Dozens of volunteers gathered at Long Leaf Park on Tuesday as part of “Plant an Azalea” Week, a yearly effort to enhance public spaces and preserve Wilmington’s identity as the “City of a Million Azaleas.”
FEMA buyout program targets 75 homes in western North Carolina
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved more than $26 million to buy out 75 flood-damaged homes in North Carolina as part of ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene.
Bicycle crashes rise in Wilmington area as population growth strains infrastructure
A growing safety concern is emerging across the Cape Fear region as bicycle crashes increase alongside population growth.
NCDMV launches online upgrade for provisional licenses
The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles has launched a new online service allowing eligible drivers to upgrade from a Level 2 Limited Provisional License to a full Class C driver license without visiting an office.
Marion woman charged in connection to McDowell County wildfire
A Marion woman has been charged in connection to a wildfire currently burning in McDowell County, according to officials.
Raleigh-Durham International Airport evacuated after anonymous threat
Raleigh-Durham International Airport Terminal 1 was evacuated after an anonymous threat around 4:20 Monday morning.
What's happening across the cape fear this weekend
Whether it's meeting up to deck out your ride, hitting up the bingo halls to win a new clutch, or spending the end of the weekend mingling with beings from across the galaxy, here are some ways you can make the most of your weekend in the Cape Fear.
Wilmington TSA agent struggles without pay as shutdown reaches 41 days
It has now been 41 days since the partial government shutdown began, and many TSA workers across the country continue to report to work without pay.
Alec Baldwin to face civil trial over alleged negligence in deadly 'Rust' shooting
Alec Baldwin will face trial in a civil case alleging he negligently fired a gun on the set of "Rust," killing the film's cinematographer, a judge ruled on Friday.
What to know about the high school 'senior assassin' water gun game police departments are warning about
Police across the country are urging high schoolers to exercise caution in playing a popular so-called "assassin" water gun game, after the activity caused a scare in several communities.
Trader Joe's customers may be eligible for money after $7.4M settlement over receipt data
Trader Joe's has agreed to pay $7.4 million to settle a class action lawsuit that accused the grocery store of putting customers at risk of potential identity theft.
Home shopping pioneer QVC plans bankruptcy protection filing
The owner of home shopping network pioneer QVC — which for years garnered the attention of millions of TV viewers looking for a deal on baubles and housewares, is planning to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Don Schlitz, storied country songwriter behind such hits as 'The Gambler,' dies at 73
Don Schlitz, the storied country music songwriter known for such hits as “The Gambler,” “On the Other Hand” and “Forever and Ever, Amen,” died Thursday at a Nashville hospital. He was 73.
Ford recalls nearly 1.4 million F-150 pickup trucks due to gearshift issue
Ford Motor Company is recalling nearly 1.4 million F-150 pickup trucks due to a gearshift issue that can increase the risk of a crash, according to a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Singer d4vd arrested on suspicion of murder in death of Celeste Rivas, LAPD says
Singer d4vd arrested on suspicion of murder in death of Celeste Rivas, LAPD says.
Parents of 2-year-old girl who died from fentanyl overdose charged with murder
Parents of 2-year-old girl who died from fentanyl overdose charged with murder.
House approves short-term FISA spy powers extension amid GOP infighting
House approves short-term FISA spy powers extension amid GOP infighting.
Trump nominates Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, to serve as CDC director
(AP) -- President Donald Trump on Thursday nominated Erica Schwartz, a former deputy surgeon general, to be the next director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In a social media post, Trump described Schwartz as “incredibly talented” and…
A 10-day ceasefire agreed on by Israel and Lebanon goes into effect
A 10-day truce began in Lebanon on Friday that could pause fighting between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group and boost attempts to extend the ceasefire between Iran, the United States and Israel after weeks of devastating war.
Wall Street inches higher as oil prices settle on hopes for more talks between the US and Iran
Wall Street inches higher as oil prices settle on hopes for more talks between the US and Iran.
Trump administration set to launch tariff refund portal. Here's what to know.
Trump administration set to launch tariff refund portal. Here's what to know.
Allbirds says it's ditching footwear and pivoting to become an AI company
Allbirds is trading in sneakers for servers, selling its footwear brand as it races to reinvent itself as an AI company in a move that sent its stock soaring 600%.
Tylenol during pregnancy has no link to autism, large study finds
Taking acetaminophen, also known by the brand name Tylenol, during pregnancy had no effect on children developing autism, according to a study of over 1.5 million children in Denmark published this week.
WrestleMania is back in Las Vegas after a big showing last year.
WrestleMania is back in Las Vegas after a big showing last year.
Pakistan’s army chief to meet Iranian officials in Tehran to push new US-Iran talks
Pakistan’s army chief is set to meet with Iranian officials in Tehran on Thursday in a bid to ease tensions in the Middle East and arrange a second round of negotiations between the United States and Iran after almost seven weeks of war.
MLB celebrates Jackie Robinson Day as every player wears No. 42 on anniversary of his historic debut
Major League Baseball honored Jackie Robinson on Wednesday with every player, coach and umpire wearing his No. 42 to mark the 79th anniversary of the infielder breaking the sport's color barrier.
WATCH: Newly released surveillance video shows Oklahoma high school principal tackling gunman
Newly released surveillance video shows an Oklahoma high school principal tackling a gunman in the school's lobby.
Why many Americans are turning to AI for health advice, according to recent polls
Why many Americans are turning to AI for health advice, according to recent polls.
Airline adding triple-decker bunk beds for economy-class travelers on long-haul flights
Sleep on a long-haul flight in economy class has always been a fantasy for many travelers. Air New Zealand will soon offer a solution that involves climbing into a triple-tier bunk bed wearing special socks.
Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz, but Trump says blockade on Iranian ships and ports will stay in force
Iran said Friday it fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, but President Donald Trump said the American blockade on Iranian ships and ports “will remain in full force” until Tehran reaches a deal with the U.S., including on its nuclear program.
Macron and Starmer hold international summit on reopening the Strait of Hormuz
Macron and Starmer hold international summit on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump administration set to launch tariff refund portal. Here's what to know.
Trump administration set to launch tariff refund portal. Here's what to know.
What to know about Pakistan’s army chief and his role as mediator between Iran and the US
What to know about Pakistan’s army chief and his role as mediator between Iran and the US.
Pakistan’s army chief to meet Iranian officials in Tehran to push new US-Iran talks
Pakistan’s army chief is set to meet with Iranian officials in Tehran on Thursday in a bid to ease tensions in the Middle East and arrange a second round of negotiations between the United States and Iran after almost seven weeks of war.
Pope heads to epicenter of Cameroon's separatist conflict to preach message of peace
Pope Leo XIV is travelling to the western Cameroon city of Bamenda to preach a message of peace in the epicenter of a separatist conflict that humanitarian groups have called one of the world’s most neglected crises.
At least 250 people missing, including Rohingya and Bangladeshis, after boat sinks in Andaman Sea
At least 250 people missing, including Rohingya and Bangladeshis, after boat sinks in Andaman Sea.
Hopes rise for renewed talks as US military says Iran blockade is in force
Hopes rose for renewed talks between the United States and Iran on Wednesday, as the U.S. military said its blockade of Iranian ports was in full effect and Tehran threatened to retaliate by striking targets across the war-weary region.
Super Typhoon Sinlaku could bring significant impacts to US islands in Pacific Ocean.
Super Typhoon Sinlaku could bring significant impacts to US islands in Pacific Ocean.
Pope Leo XIV in Algeria to walk in footsteps of his spiritual father, St. Augustine
Pope Leo XIV is following in the footsteps of his spiritual father, St. Augustine, making a pilgrimage to the archaeological ruins of eastern Algeria where the fifth century titan of early Christianity lived, died and wrote some of the most important works in Western thought.
Pakistan proposes new US-Iran talks as Vance and Trump hint at progress
Pakistani officials said Tuesday that Islamabad has proposed a second round of talks to the U.S. and Iran, while U.S. Vice President JD Vance earlier said negotiations with Iran “did make some progress" and U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday “we’ve been called by the other side” and “they want to work a deal.”
Happy 69th birthday to Fatou, the world's oldest gorilla living in captivity
Fatou, the world's oldest gorilla living in captivity, celebrated her 69th birthday with a feast Monday, munching on cherry tomatoes, beets, leeks and lettuce at the Berlin Zoo.
Sánchez returns to China as Spain seeks deeper ties amid Iran war tensions.
Sánchez returns to China as Spain seeks deeper ties amid Iran war tensions.
Pope Leo XIV visiting Algeria to open Africa trip and honor locally born St. Augustine
Pope Leo XIV is embarking Monday on the first-ever papal trip to Algeria, aiming to promote Christian-Muslim coexistence at a time of global conflict and honor the locally born inspiration of his religious spirituality, St. Augustine.
At least 100 dead in Nigeria after air force 'misfire' on market, sources say
A Nigerian Air Force strike targeting jihadi rebels hit a local market in northeastern Nigeria, killing over 100 civilians including children and injuring many others, a rights group and local media reported on Sunday. Officials confirmed a misfire without providing details.
Paddington stage musical wins big with 7 trophies at London's Olivier Awards
Homegrown hit "Paddington The Musical” was the big winner at London’s Olivier Awards on Sunday, where the marmalade-loving bear from Peru won seven trophies, including best new musical.
U.S. naval destroyers have crossed the Strait of Hormuz, CENTCOM says
Two U.S. Navy destroyers had transited the Strait of Hormuz to begin mine-clearing operations in the vital waterway, U.S. Central Command said Saturday.
Tesla owners approved to use self-driving features in Netherlands, a first for Europe
Tesla owners in the Netherlands can now use their cars' self-driving feature — with some conditions — making it the first European country to approve the feature.
A 9-year-old found locked in a utility van since 2024, malnourished and unable to walk
A 9-year-old boy was rescued this week after living locked in his father’s utility van in eastern France since 2024, according to the local prosecutor.
Pet Pals: Curious and playful dog looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Nala! She's an adult mixed breed dog.
Pet Pals: Chill cat looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Ferrari, a 4-year-old cat.
Pet Pals: Affectionate Terrier looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Bridget, a 4-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier with a heart as big as her adorable smile.
Pet Pals: Chill tabby kitten looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Conrad, a 5-month-old tabby kitten.
Pet Pals: Sweet and playful Terrier mix looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Sweetie, a young bundle of energy and joy.
Pet Pals: Calm cat looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Freddie, an 8 year old Maine Coon mix.
Pet Pals: Energetic foxhound mix looking for forever home
This Week’s Pet Pal is Sulu, an energetic 1-year-old foxhound mix.
Pet Pals: Fun and bouncy lab mix looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Siena, a lab mix with a personality as big as her puppy paws.
Pet Pals: Curious and loving Shepherd Terrier mix looking for forever home
This Week’s Pet Pal is Bumble, a 4 month old Shepherd/Terrier mix.
Pet Pals: Loving shepherd mix looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Roxie, an 18-week-old female shepherd mix.
Pet Pals: Loyal and loving pit bull looking for forever home
This Week’s Pet Pal is Lucy, a 4-year-old pit bull.
Pet Pals: Loving and loyal Catahoula Shepherd mix looking for forever home
WINNABOW, NC (WWAY) — This Week’s Pet Pal is Tacoma, A 1-year-old, 57-lb Catahoula Shepherd mix.
Pet Pals: Charming and playful puppy looking for forever home
WINNABOW, NC (WWAY) — This Week’s Pet Pal is Cobalt, a 13-week-old puppy.
The Carolina Beat: Advanced Ortho
Katie Sasser meets with Dr. Joe Norris to learn more about Advanced Ortho.
Pet Pals: Kind and loveable Beagle looking for forever home
This Week’s Pet Pal is Ferris, a 5-year-old Beagle.
'Teacher of the Month' recognized for her leadership through music and love
Every month, we highlight an educator in the Cape Fear who's going above and beyond.
Pet Pals: Playful and affectionate Great Pyrenees looking for forever home
This Week’s Pet Pal is Murphy, a 2-year-old Great Pyrenees.
Pet Pals: Curious and affectionate cat looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Morris, a 3-month-old Domestic Short Hair cat.
Pet Pals: Affectionate and playful retriever mix looking for forever home
This Week’s Pet Pal is Teal, a 12-week old retriever mix.
Pet Pals: Playful and funny German Shepherd mix looking for forever home
This week’s Pet Pal is Frankie, a young German Shepherd mix.