Single Gunshot Wound Killed Child

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— press release from Henderson Chief of Police Marcus Barrow 2/28/25

This morning at approximately 9:30, first responders were dispatched to a residence on Gary Street in the City of Henderson following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they discovered a minor with a single gunshot wound. EMTs and other first responders provided medical assistance, but, unfortunately, the minor died as a result of the injury.

Preliminary information indicates that the incident took place inside the victim’s residence. Another minor living in the same home had accessed an unsecured firearm and discharged it, striking the deceased. The firearm involved in the incident has been recovered, along with other evidence. The investigation will require time and various resources, including consultation with the District Attorney’s Office.

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NC Coop Extension

The Local Skinny! Farmers Market Vendor Courses

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This is the time of year when local gardeners are perusing seed catalogs or checking in with local nurseries about when the vegetable slips will be ready to purchase.  The April 15 frost date seems a long way off, but gardeners are planning now in order to reap the benefits – literally – when spinach, peas, beans and more are ready to harvest.

Vance County Cooperative Extension is hosting a series of vendor workshops during March for anyone interested in participating in farmers markets in Vance, Granville or other nearby counties.

Vance County Agriculture Agent Michael Ellington said the classes will be held on Saturday mornings beginning Mar. 8 and will continue on Mar. 15, 22 and 29. The first three sessions will be from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and the Mar. 29 session will last from 10 a.m to 1 p.m.

All sessions will be held at Salem United Methodist Church, 4151 Salem Rd., Oxford.

Each session has a different focus, Ellington explained.

  • 8 – the basics of business
  • 15 – marketing – product placement for optimum visibility on tables in the market
  • 22 – knowing your customers and follow-up to sales
  • 29 – basic food safety

Vendors often sell at more than one farmers market, Ellington said, so it just makes sense that these vendor trainings are offered to individuals from numerous counties throughout the area.

The Vance County Regional Farmers Market may see a higher volume than some of the other area markets because of tourism – folks visiting Kerr Lake or traveling along I-85 may choose to stop in, he noted.

He would like to see the Vance market be an incubator market for others who are just getting started in growing produce or for those who are interested in expanding their existing production.

The Vance County Regional Farmers Market will have a new feature this year, if all goes according to plan.

Ellington said volunteers and others have been whacking away at kudzu to create a community garden on the campus of the farmers market.

More volunteers are needed at upcoming workdays, he said:

  • Mar. 21 – working on establishing garden borders – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Mar. 29 – marking walkways and preparing for stone installation – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Apr. 11 – installing garden beds – 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

“We want to have the community realize that this is their market, and the garden is theirs,” Ellington said. The community garden would be a perfect spot for those who want a garden but lack the space or the confidence to plant, tend and harvest on their own.

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Home and Garden Show

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On the Home and Garden Show with Vance Co. Cooperative Ext.

The Granville-Vance-Warren Beginner Beekeeping School will be on March 1st, at 9am at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market.

The Vance-Warren Beekeepers Association will have their March Meeting on Monday, March 10th, at 7pm at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market.

The Growing The Spring Vegetable Garden Workshop will happen on Monday March 31st, 6:30pm at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market. This event will be hosted by Wayne Rowland.

  • Pruning season is fast approaching, sharpen your pruning equipment,  Cooperative Extension has pruning publications that will show how to correctly prune fruit trees and grape vines.
  • Check the central Piedmont planting guide for vegetables that can be planted in each month.
  • Fertilize your fescue lawn if you haven’t already done so.
  • With warmer temperatures this week check for cool season broadleaf weeds in your lawn and spray them if needed. 
  • Continue planting trees and shrubs anytime soil is workable.
  • Organize seed packets according to planting date.
  • Do not till soil if it is wet.
  • Check seedlings daily for moisture.
  • Keep that garden journal up to date.
  • Treat sheds, lawn furniture, and wooden handled tools with wood preservative if needed.
  • Check houseplants dust weekly with a soft cloth.
  • Check storage areas for mice.

The Vance County Cooperative Extension is located at 305 Young St, Henderson, NC 27536

The Vance County Regional Farmers Market is located at 210 Southpark Dr., Henderson, NC 27536

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The Local Skinny! Granville County Wedding and Event Expo is This Sunday

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Whether you’re planning a wedding, a big birthday bash or some other type of special event, this weekend’s Granville Wedding and Event Expo is the place for a one-stop shopping opportunity to learn about venues, vendors to make the celebration unforgettable.

The expo will be held Sunday, Mar. 2 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at the Creedmoor Community Center, and Granville Tourism Director Angela Allen said 40 vendors will be on site to discuss all your party, reception and wedding planning needs.

“This is a wonderful event that I look forward to every year,” Allen said on Tuesday’s segment of The Local Skinny!

There is no charge to attend, but a donation for Families Living Violence Free will be your ticket to get in, she noted. Examples of useful items include financial donations, gift cards, packaged foods, individually wrapped snacks and toiletry items.

Once you’re inside, Allen said vendors representing a range of services from venues all the ways to food and photography, music, makeup and hair will be on hand to speak with you to help plan your special event.

Allen said there’s a whole room dedicated to food. A tasting ticket is available for $10, but if you want the full experience, spring for the VIP bag for $20, which includes vendor samples as well as the tasting ticket.

“This is one of those chances to shop all in one spot for one day,” Allen said. All the vendors are from Granville County and surrounding counties, which makes the event even more special, she said, “to know that we have this many people and professionals to showcase our little place in the world.”

The wedding and event expo gives participants a chance to learn not just what services are available, but it’s also a great time to seek advice or get suggestions from vendors.

“These are the people you want to talk to,” she said.

To learn more and to purchase tasting tickets and VIP tickets, check out the website https://visitgranvillenc.com/whats-happening/weddings-events/

To learn about other upcoming events in Granville County, visit http://visitgranvillenc.com

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The Local Skinny! SBI Called In On Officer-Involved Shooting That Left One Citizen Dead

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UPDATED MONDAY, FEB. 24 AT 2:59 PM

 

PRESS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF VANCE COUNTY SHERIFF CURTIS BRAME

The Vance County Sheriff’s Office wishes to provide the following update regarding the 22 February 2025 Officer Involved Shooting. 

Shortly before noon on the date listed above a Vance County Deputy Sheriff conducted a traffic stop on US 1 in the Kittrell area. During the stop it was discovered that the driver, Johnny Mayfield, had numerous outstanding orders for his arrest. The Deputy, following his lawful duty, attempted to take Mayfield into custody at that time. Mayfield refused to comply with commands from the Deputy and a brief foot chase ensued. 

 

Mayfield, after running across numerous lanes of traffic on US 1, returned to his vehicle, entered into the driver’s seat and continued his flight from the Deputy, leaving the female occupant of his vehicle on the roadside. The Deputy continued his pursuit of Mayfield north into Henderson. The vehicle pursuit ended after Mayfield wrecked his vehicle on West Bell Street in the city limits of Henderson. Mayfield exited his vehicle and fled again. 

 

The Deputy exited his patrol car and began to pursue Mayfield on foot a second time. Mayfield continued his flight onto West Young Avenue. As the Deputy continued the pursuit onto West Young Avenue Mayfield walked into the roadway carrying a glass bottle and began to walk towards the Deputy stating “I’m going to kill you”. The Deputy drew his weapon and began to walk backwards away from Mayfield as he continued to walk towards the Deputy, again Mayfield stated “I’m going to kill you”. While attempting to distance himself from Mayfield the Deputy lost his footing and fell to the ground onto his back. As the Deputy fell to the ground Mayfield broke the bottle on the roadway and continued to walk towards to the Deputy, now with the remainder of the broken bottle in his right hand, stating again “I’m going to kill you”. 

 

The Deputy regained his footing and stood up facing Mayfield. Mayfield then lunged at the Deputy with the broken bottle in his hand. The Deputy discharged his weapon striking Mayfield. The Deputy reported over the radio that shots had been fired and requested emergency assistance. The Deputy, and other units, attempted life saving measures on Mayfield until such time as EMS units arrived on the scene. 

 

The Deputy involved has been placed on Administrative Leave, as is standard procedure, pending the results of the NCSBI Investigation. The Vance County Sheriff’s Office is cooperating with the NCSBI including the preservation of all video recordings.

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UPDATED MONDAY, FEB. 24 AT 12:45 PM

The investigation continues into an officer-related shooting that resulted in the death of a person on Saturday morning in Henderson.

In a press statement issued Saturday, Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame confirmed that the person died from injuries received in the incident.

The sheriff notified the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, and the SBI issued the following statement:

“At the request of the Vance County Sheriff’s Office and the 11th Prosecutorial District Attorney, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Saturday morning in Henderson, NC.

Preliminary investigations suggest that a series of incidents occurred between a Vance County Deputy and a citizen. As a result, an altercation ensued, and a deputy drew his service weapon and fired, striking and killing the citizen.

No law enforcement officers were injured in this incident. SBI agents on the scene collected evidence and are conducting interviews. The findings of the SBI investigation will be shared with the Vance County District Attorney for his review and consideration.”

Additional details will be provided as they become available.

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Heart Healthy Lunch and Learn at Maria Parham Feb. 27

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There are still a few days left in February, and health care professionals at Maria Parham Health want the community to be informed about heart health and prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Araba Ofosu-Somuah, an interventional cardiologist, is a speaker at an upcoming Lunch and Learn event on Thursday, Feb. 27 at the hospital.

Ofosu and Lisa McGhee, director of MPH cardiac services, were guests on Thursday’s segment of The Local Skinny! on WIZS to talk about the program, which will also feature Dr. Benjamin Dao.

The program begins at 12 noon in the hospital’s auditorium, McGhee said. Following lunch and a question-and-answer period, Part 2 of the program will take place in one of the hospital’s classrooms, where multiple interactive stations will be set up – participants can get their blood pressure checked, learn about healthy diets and cardiac rehabilitation options and much more.

McGhee said there will be demonstrations on how to administer hands-only CPR.

There will be giveaways and information about other resources available as well.

Ofosu said she has an interest in obstetrics and women’s cardiac care and spent several years during her fellowship looking at links between problems during pregnancy and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease when women reach their 40s and 50s.

She said it’s important for women to tell their primary care providers about any obstetrical problems they may have experienced in the past.

Primary care physicians often create baseline testing, and, if concerns persist, can make a referral to a cardiologist.

Acknowledging that some risks are within a patient’s control and some are not, Ofosu said she likes to focus on primary prevention – the things that people can do to avoid cardiovascular disease – healthy lifestyle choices like diet and exercise.

Ofosu uses the catheterization lab at Maria Parham, and, even though she’s only been here six months or so, she said having access to such a tool is key to promoting good heart health.

McGhee said the cath lab has been open since 2017, and the hospital has been providing coronary interventions since 2019 for patients who have blockages in their coronary arteries that could lead to heart attack.

The Lunch and Learn is one way to increase awareness in the community about signs of cardiovascular disease or other symptoms that could point to heart or vascular problems.

“If people were more proactive instead of reactive about these primary risk factors, I think we would be able to make some changes when it comes to outcomes for cardiovascular disease,” Ofosu said.

Register for the Lunch and Learn online at www.mariaparham.com. There is no cost to attend.

Participants can enter through the Cancer Center entrance to get to the auditorium, McGhee said.

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Home And Garden Show

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On the Home and Garden Show with Vance Co. Cooperative Ext.

  • The Granville-Vance-Warren Beginner Beekeepers School will have their next session on Saturday, March 1st, at 9:00am at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market.
  • The Vance-Warren Beekeepers Association will have their March meeting on Monday, March 10th, starting at 7:00pm at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market.
  • Pruning season is fast approaching. You need to got through and check on your pruning equipment.
  • At this time, you can prepare all of your garden hand tools. Sharpen those hand tools. If you have wooden handles, sand those handles with a sander and smooth them out.
  • Now is the time to also prepare your seed trays. Clean them out, so they will be clean to put new seeds and soil in them.
  • Take a picture of each piece of equipment that you have on hand.
  • You still have time to plant your trees and shrubs. Anytime that the soil is workable.

The Vance County Cooperative Extension is located at 305 Young St, Henderson, NC 27536

The Vance County Regional Farmers Market is located at 210 Southpark Dr., Henderson, NC 27536

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Winter Weather

Bread, Check! Milk, Check! Prepare For Winter Weather

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Southerners have long been the butt of jokes about preparing for winter weather: We flock to grocery stores and hit the milk and bread sections, leaving behind empty, bare shelves in our wake.

But there are plenty of other suggestions that people here in the South – and elsewhere – should keep in mind when the threat of snow, sleet and ice is in the forecast, and Chris Tucker and the folks at Warren County Emergency Services have issued a comprehensive checklist to review – just in case the forecasters are correct about Wednesday and Thursday’s inclement weather.

  1. Prepare Your Home and Family
  • Check your heating system to ensure it is functioning properly. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, make sure you have enough fuel.
  • Inspect your windows and doors for any drafts. Seal any gaps to keep the cold air out.
  • Stock up on essentials such as non-perishable food, bottled water, medications, and batteries. Aim for at least a 72-hour supply.
  • Charge all electronic devices (phones, tablets, flashlights, etc.) to ensure they are ready in case of power outages.
  • Prepare an emergency kit with blankets, a first aid kit, flashlight, candles, and extra warm clothing.
  • Know your local emergency shelters and how to reach them in case you need to evacuate or seek refuge.
  1. Ensure Your Vehicle Is Ready
  • Top off your gas tank to prevent your fuel line from freezing and to ensure you have enough fuel during an emergency.
  • Check your tires for adequate tread and proper inflation. Keep tire chains in the car if needed.
  • Have an emergency car kit with essentials such as a shovel, blankets, snacks, water, flashlight, jumper cables, and sand or salt for traction.
  • Ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition and top off windshield washer fluid.
  1. Prepare for Snow Removal
  • Shovel and salt: Make sure you have a snow shovel and a bag of salt or sand to use on driveways, sidewalks, and steps. Consider using a snow blower if you have one.
  • Clear your gutters: Remove any leaves or debris that could prevent proper drainage, which could lead to ice buildup during the storm.
  1. Stay Informed
  • Monitor weather updates from trusted sources, such as local news, the National Weather Service, or weather apps.
  • Sign up for local emergency alerts to receive real-time information and warnings about the storm.
  1. Ensure the Safety of Your Pets
  • Bring pets indoors before the storm begins. If they must stay outside, provide proper shelter with enough warmth and protection.
  • Stock up on pet food to ensure you have enough for the duration of the storm.
  1. Check on Vulnerable Neighbors
  • Check on elderly or disabled neighbors to make sure they are prepared for the storm and have necessary supplies.
  • Offer assistance with tasks like bringing in outdoor furniture, stocking up on food, or clearing driveways if possible.
  1. Prepare for Power Outages
  • Have alternative light sources such as flashlights and candles in case of power outages.
  • Unplug sensitive electronics like computers, TVs, and appliances to prevent potential damage from power surges when the electricity returns.
  1. Stay Off the Roads
  • Avoid driving during the snowstorm unless absolutely necessary. If travel is essential, take extra precautions by ensuring your vehicle is winter-ready.
  1. Review Your Insurance and Property Protection
  • Check your insurance coverage to ensure you are protected in case of damage caused by snow and ice (e.g., roof collapse or broken pipes).
  • Remove or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and objects that could be blown away by strong winds.
  1. Plan Your Post-Storm Recovery
  • Develop a plan for post-storm cleanup. Have a plan for clearing snow, checking for potential damage, and taking care of any fallen trees or branches.
Perry Memorial Library

The Local Skinny! Events At Perry Memorial Library

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Vance County Commissioner Valencia Perry will join Melody Peters next week for a special Story Time program as part of Perry Memorial Library’s celebration of Black History Month.

“I’m so excited that she can come,” Peters said on Tuesday’s segment of The Local Skinny! “She’s amazing!”

Perry was elected to District 2 in 2024 and Peters, Youth Services director, said she is always interested in what’s going on at the library, so she invited the newly elected official to take part in Story Time from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 25.

The impending wintry weather shouldn’t pose a problem for that event, but Peters said it could adversely affect the student Library Club, scheduled to meet on Feb. 25 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

If schools are forced to cancel classes this week, it could mean that the students won’t have enough time to put the finishing touches on their latest project.

“Being out of school can throw things off,” Peters said. “If we have to reschedule, that’s what we’ll do.”

Peters offers the reminder that the library follows the same inclement weather schedule as the county, so check social media and the library website for updates on openings and closings.

Visit https://www.perrylibrary.org/home to learn more about the programs and services the library offers.

 

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Henderson Lands $8M Syntec Precision Technology Production, Warehouse Facility

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Gov. Josh Stein announced high-precision manufacturer Syntec Precision Technology Corporation will create 34 new jobs in Vance County. The company will invest $8 million to establish its first North American production and warehouse facility in the city of Henderson.

“Syntec has made a great decision to make its North American home in our state,” Stein said.  “Global manufacturers like Syntec need strong communities with a steady pipeline of talent and infrastructure to support their long-term growth strategies, and we’re proud that Vance County fits the bill.”

Syntec Precision Technology is a leader in engineering and producing precision machining parts for the hydraulic, life sciences, and transportation industries. The company provides research and development, manufacturing, assembly and testing services for its customers. Syntec’s expansion to the United States will support the development, production, and distribution of its high-quality parts for medical devices, diagnostic equipment, and orthopedic products as well as new equipment.

Vance County Economic Development Director Ferdinand Rouse told WIZS News that the international company will be locating at 145 Technology Lane, which is in Triangle North Corporate Park on Poplar Creek Road – across I-85 from Vance-Granville Community College.

“They plan to begin ramping up operations this year,” Rouse said, with initial plans to  buy equipment and up-fit the site before hiring people and beginning production.

“On behalf of my family and our team, I am thrilled to announce our plans to establish a manufacturing facility in North Carolina,” said Lei Wang and Bin Wang, Owners of Syntec Precision Technology Corporation. “We are deeply grateful to the State of North Carolina, Vance County, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, and the N.C. Community College System, for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout this process. Your partnership has been instrumental in making our vision a reality, and we are excited to contribute to the growth and success of this vibrant community. We look forward to a strong and prosperous future together in North Carolina.”

“North Carolina has the largest manufacturing workforce in the southeastern United States,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Our ‘First in Talent’ workforce development system continues to provide a highly trained, dedicated workforce for dynamic manufacturers like Syntec.”

While wages for technicians, inspectors, engineers and other personnel vary by position, annual wages for new positions will average $46,985. The average wage in Vance County is $45,193. These new jobs could potentially create an annual payroll impact of more than $1.5 million.

A performance-based grant of $100,000 from the One North Carolina Fund awarded to Syntec Precision will help the company locate to Vance County. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All OneNC grants require a matching participation from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

“We welcome these new jobs to Vance County,” said N.C. Sen. Lisa S. Barnes. “Syntec is a fantastic addition to our existing supply chain, and we look forward to partnering with the company as it builds its new home here in rural North Carolina.”

In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Vance-Granville Community College, Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments, Vance County, Henderson-Vance County Economic Development Commission, Duke Energy and the City of Henderson.

— information courtesy of the office of N.C. Gov. Josh Stein

(This story was updated 2-18-25. It was originally published on WIZS 2-17-25.)

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