*UPDATE* Homicide Investigation and Arrest

On October 28, 2025, at approximately 10:43 a.m., officers with the Kinston Police Department responded to 405 Manning Street in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located 31-year-old Ryechic Harper, who was suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, Harper succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Greene Lamp Community Action announces and warns of potential service disruptions across 12 counties in Eastern, NC

Greene Lamp Community Action, a Community Action Agency providing services in Beaufort, Craven, Duplin, Edgecombe, Greene, Lenoir, Martin, Pamlico, Pitt, Sampson, Wayne, and Wilson counties issued a warning and notification Monday that critical programs serving hundreds of local residents are at risk of disruption if the federal government shutdown continues.

Letter to the Editor: Kinston Must Lower Property Tax Rates Now

The recent property revaluation has delivered a crippling blow to Kinston homeowners, and our City Council has a duty—and the legal authority—to provide immediate relief. According to North Carolina General Statute 159-15, it is absolutely possible for the City Council to reduce the tax rate now to address this massive increase in our tax base. They must act before January 1st.

Obituary: Troni Faye Baker

Our mom, Troni Faye Baker, went to her forever home to reunite with her husband Tuffy on Friday, October 24th, 2025. Troni’s Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, October 29th, 2025, at Edwards Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by a service beginning at 2:00PM.

Mike Parker: Beth goes home to be with the Lord

Friday morning, I opened an email informing me that Beth Newton passed away Monday. Just a few days before her passing, Beth had sent me a letter that explained – in medical terms – the deteriorating condition of her heart. I sent a photo of her note to my daughter Sara, who is a cardiac nurse, because I am not fluent in medical terminology. In that note, Beth said that she might not live long. I never expected the end to come so soon.