April: Looking back: Neuse News’ most-read stories of 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, Neuse News is looking back at the stories that mattered most to our readers throughout the year. From breaking news and public safety to education, local government, and community milestones, these were the five most-read articles each month. This retrospective highlights the moments that sparked conversation, raised questions, and shaped life across Lenoir, Greene, and Jones counties in 2025.
Lenoir County schools face setback after federal COVID funding revoked
Lenoir County Public Schools (LCPS) is among four North Carolina districts impacted by a recent decision from the U.S. Department of Education to revoke previously approved extensions for spending federal COVID-19 relief funds — a move that could halt a major infrastructure project.
The Kinston Police Department’s A Squad and C Squad have continued their investigation into this incident and have identified two additional suspects: Ricky Shadding Jr. (42, of Black Creek, NC) and Meaghan Reason (34, of Morganton, NC).
“We believe this was an isolated incident. At this time, it remains under active investigation. There is no indication of an ongoing threat to the general public. Detectives are treating the case as a homicide, pending the results of the medical examiner’s report.,” said Sgt. Biggins.
A cornerstone of downtown Kinston’s small business community has entered a new chapter. Rick Bostic, owner of Bostic Construction and Demolition, Inc., has purchased the Kinston Enterprise Center with plans to not only move his company’s headquarters into the building, but also maintain its availability to local startups and small businesses looking for affordable office space.
Yesterday, I learned on social media that several felony charges against Michael Jamaal Thompson had been dismissed. I immediately took it upon my myself to look into this matter.
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