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

/by

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.

—————————————————–

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.

Click Play!

Heart Healthy Lunch and Learn at Maria Parham Feb. 27

/by

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.

(This is not a paid ad.)

CLICK PLAY FOR OUR BROADCAST AUDIO!

Home And Garden Show

/by

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

Click Play!

Winter Weather

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

/by

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

/by

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.

 

CLICK PLAY!

 

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

/by

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.)

Click Play!

Deon Linshawn Bullock is Wanted in Connection to Donnie Ayscue’s Homicide

/by

UPDATE 2-13-25

(WIZS write up to follow here soon)

Click Play!

For Immediate Release – From Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame – Date: January 24, 2025

On Saturday, January 11, 2025, the Vance County Sheriff’s Office (VCSO) received a 911 call at approximately 1:54 a.m. about a gunshot victim at 1300 Walters Street in Henderson, North Carolina. Vance County EMS and VCSO Deputies responded and discovered Donnie Ayscue suffering from a single gunshot wound. Ayscue died as a result of his injuries at his residence.

After an intensive investigation, 19-year-old, Deon Linshawn Bullock was identified as a person of interest.

Deon Linshawn Bullock is wanted in connection to Ayscue’s homicide. Bullock was last seen wearing a grey hoodie with grey joggers on January 24, 2025. See photo below.

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is assisting the Vance County Sheriff’s Office in this active and ongoing homicide investigation.

Contact: Anyone with information on Deon Linshawn Bullock’s whereabouts should contact Henderson-Vance Crime Stoppers (252) 492-1925, the Vance County Sheriff’s Office (252) 738-2200, or the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations (1-800-334-3000 or sbiwebcontact@ncsbi.gov).

(Original post made to WIZS.com on Jan. 24, 2025)

Click Play!

Home And Garden Show

/by

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, February 15th at 9:00am at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market.
  • If you have ordered your seeds, organize your seeds according to when are going to plant them.
  • Install a good thermometer for your cold frames or greenhouses. Check the temperatures of your cold frames or greenhouses if you use them. Especially if it’s 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • It is not too early to start scouting lawns for cool-season weeds.
  • This time in February, you can still continue planting trees and shrubs. Anytime that the soil is workable.
  • We are getting into seed-starting season, especially in our greenhouse or even our home. If you don’t have a good seed-starting bench, now is a good time to make one. If you have any questions about making a seed-starting bench, stop by the Vance County Cooperative Extension.
  • You need to make sure that you have a good light source for your seeds this gardening season.

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

Click Play!

S-Line Rail Corridor

The Local Skinny! City Council Chooses Iconic Downtown Bank Building As Site Of Local Mobility Hub

/by

The Henderson City Council chose Monday night the former First National Bank building to be the site of the mobility hub for the S-Line railway project.

In a unanimous vote, at its regular monthly meeting, the Council selected the historic building located in the middle of downtown Henderson. Council members Sara Coffey, Garry Daeke and Lamont Noel were absent from the meeting.

Assistant City Manager Paylor Spruill and N.C. DOT representatives reviewed progress with the project thus far and said next steps were waiting the final site selection.

The Mobility Hub and Rail Station is a separate project from the actual rail project, which will help connect by rail Raleigh and Richmond.

Henderson is one of the stops along the 85-mile stretch of rail line that will provide commuter and passenger service.

The city’s Land Planning Committee met in November and December to consider the two sites under consideration – the city-owned First National Bank property and the Garnett Street Station.

Renovating a major building in the downtown was seen as a strong catalyst to further confidence by private investment in downtown’s redevelopment, according to information contained in Monday’s agenda package.

The historical significance of the bank building, with covenants in place to preserve the architecture, would likely not attract private investors. But putting the building to use as a public space could be a good way to preserve the building and provide benefits to the community.

Council member Sam Seifert sits on the Land Planning Committee and said choosing the historic building would send “a strong message” about downtown development, adding that the transformed building could become a “statement piece” along the S-Line project.

Staff from the DOT’s Integrity Mobility Division attended Monday’s Council meeting and said although the program is facilitated by DOT, “we want to make sure it’s led by the city of Henderson.”

They want to ensure that the mobility hub provides connectivity to William Street and Garnett Street, giving pedestrians safe options to walk in the area when they come to visit.

With the feasibility study completed, next steps include an environmental study before getting to the design and construction phases. But DOT needed a decision from city leaders before moving on.

Cost estimates are preliminary but could be more than $21 million to bring the old building back from disrepair, due to age and damage and the fact that it has been vacant for so long.

The façade appears ok and in good shape, but the interior needs extensive work.

Also, there are businesses on the William Street side that will be displaced because of the project, so there will need to be money set aside for acquisitions. And because of its historic significance, there need to be extensive coordination with state historic preservation officials.

CLICK PLAY!

The Local Skinny! Tommy Farmer Recognized By The NC Association Of Soil & Water Conservation

/by

Tommy Farmer has been a member of the local soil and water conservation district for 30 years – he was recently recognized for his decades of service at the annual statewide meeting in Durham.

“Time has really flown by fast,” Farmer said on Monday’s segment of The Local Skinny!

As the name implies, a local conservation district helps county residents conserve soil and water – whether that’s by helping to create management plans or helping defray costs of practices that are good for land and water.

“Farmland is disappearing,” Farmer said, which has a direct impact on crop and food production. “Without the soil, we don’t eat,” he said.

The conservation district supports local farmers who may want to plant cover crops – to help keep the soil in place between food crops, create field borders and even pond development or cleanouts.

Farmer, who is the group’s vice-chair, said the conservation district is interested in making sure the soil is in good shape for future crop production and make sure the water supply is suitable for use by farms as well as for drinking.

Vance County is one of 11 counties that comprise District 4 of the statewide conservation group. Franklin and Wake counties also are in District 4, and Farmer said all it takes is a drive along Capital Boulevard to see the burgeoning commercial and residential growth happening there, and you can’t help but think about the additional demands placed on the local water supply.

District 4 doesn’t usually have to deal with issues that other districts face – flooding, for example. “We’re in a good situation here,” he said.

There’s an opening on the local district board, and Farmer said they’ve got their eye on one individual who may be appointed to fill an unexpired term.

Visit www.vancecounty.org and click on Departments to learn more about the programs and services of the soil and water conservation district.

CLICK PLAY!