Big changes ahead: New Hanover HS to undergo $230M multi-phase renovation project

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY-TV) — Big changes are coming to the New Hanover County High School off Market Street. The school board voted today on a new master plan outlining options for the school’s future. One option involved building the brand new high school on a 70-acre site costing $280 million. The second option involved a hybrid approach projected at $230…

New Hanover County opens $55M Main Library next week

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY-TV) –An entire block in downtown Wilmington is being transformed into the new “Grace District.” The district will host the $55 million construction of the New Hanover County public library and Cape Fear Museum. The 95,000 square-foot building includes two floors of books, computers, multi-purpose rooms and an outdoor terrace. Dana Conners, the New Hanover County library director…

Southport shooting sparks concerns over gun access for mentally ill; Gov. calls for ‘red flag law’

  SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY-TV) — As the city of Southport continues to recover from Saturday night’s mass shooting, questions are emerging about how the suspect, Nigel Edge, was able to have a gun despite a documented history of mental illness. Dorothy Royal, manager at the Surf City Guns and Ammo said customers fill out a federal form prior to purchasing…

“Cops talk to cops”: Faith-based team provides trauma support for Southport first responders

Photo Courtesy: Kamy Smelser WWAY-TVSOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY-TV) — As the Southport community and first responders continue to grieve and process following Saturday night’s mass shooting, resources for those who are suffering mentally are continuing to become available. “My response always you know I’ve had people asking me you know, are you okay and I’m always quick to say,’ I’m okay,’…

Brunswick County rallies after tragedy and local businesses and artists are pitching in

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — Many Brunswick County businesses are stepping up to support those impacted by Saturday’s deadly shooting.  Island Grindz, which owns a handful of restaurants in Southport and Oak Island, will be hosting a fundraiser at their restaurant Koko Cabana on Friday.   Account Manager Destiny Watson says the event is about strengthening connections. Proceeds will go to…

‘This is terrible’: Bald Head Island Ferry riders duck as Southport shooting unfolded

  SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY-TV) — As the Southport and Oak Island areas continue to put pieces together following the devastating mass shooting last night, WWAY received video from a Southport local on a ferry during the shooting. Mary Soles was riding the Bald Head Island Ferry during the time of the shooting when the captain of the ferry had asked…

‘Evil has come ashore’ Southport officials give update following mass shooting

  SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY-TV) — During a Sunday news conference at the Southport Community Center, city officials and local law enforcement shared updates following Saturday night’s mass shooting at the American Fish Company. “Evil has come ashore in Southport, North Carolina,” David said. “Ironically enough at the very place which once served as a backdrop to the movie ‘Safe Haven’”…