North Carolina

North Carolina's attorney general is calling on Congress to establish safeguards around artificial intelligence following a series of bot attacks. The state's top legal officer argues federal action is needed to address misuse of AI-driven automated accounts. Details about the nature of the attacks, who was targeted, and what specific regulations are being proposed remain limited.

An environmental group is challenging air quality permits tied to a large Amazon data center project in North Carolina, with Duke Energy supplying power to the facility. The challenge targets regulators' approval of emissions permits for the mega site, raising concerns about pollution and energy demand from rapidly expanding data center infrastructure. The dispute puts a spotlight on how states weigh tech industry growth against environmental standards.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein says he will not oppose a merger between WakeMed, the Raleigh-based hospital system, and Atrium Health, the state's largest healthcare provider. The combination would bring two of the state's major hospital networks together, and the governor's decision removes a significant political hurdle. Observers are watching what the deal could mean for healthcare costs and access across the region.

North Carolina's attorney general is calling on Congress to establish national guardrails for artificial intelligence, citing growing safety concerns. The appeal adds to a wider debate among state and federal officials over how to regulate AI technologies as their use expands across the United States.

Fire crews in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, are responding to an active structure fire on Ocean Drive, according to local officials. Details about injuries, the extent of the damage, or the cause have not yet been released as firefighters work at the scene. Residents are being kept updated through local news coverage as the situation develops.

The murder trial over the 2012 killing of University of North Carolina student Faith Hedgepeth has begun, opening with DNA evidence and leaving key questions unresolved. The case, one of the most closely followed unresolved crimes in North Carolina, drew renewed attention as proceedings got underway. Observers are watching closely to see how the DNA evidence is weighed and what answers the trial may finally provide.

Antawn Jamison's voice carried weight in the decision to hire Michael Malone, thanks to his connections to North Carolina and a long NBA playing career. The former Tar Heels star and 16-year NBA veteran is credited with helping bring the experienced head coach on board, blending his college roots with professional credibility.

Officials in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, have closed Ocean Drive because of an active fire. Emergency crews are responding and residents and visitors are being urged to avoid the area while the situation develops. No details on injuries or damage have been released yet.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation says sections of Highway 12, the main route along the Outer Banks, remain closed after ocean water washed over the road. Drivers are being kept off the affected stretches while crews assess conditions and wait for water to recede. Travelers in the area should expect delays and check updates before heading north or south along the barrier islands.

Two homes in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, have been declared a total loss after a fire, according to local officials, who confirmed that no injuries were reported. The blaze caused significant property damage in the coastal town, and authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire.

North Carolina Highway 12 near the Marc Basnight Bridge and Rodanthe has been closed after ocean water washed over the roadway on the Outer Banks. The route, a vital link for Hatteras Island communities, is frequently flooded during coastal storms and high surf. Travelers are being urged to use caution or find alternative arrangements while crews wait for conditions to improve.

Two years after Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina, residents continue to struggle with mental health challenges, according to local reporting. The storm's lasting impact is still being felt as communities rebuild and people cope with loss, displacement and trauma long after the immediate disaster response ended.

North Carolina is appealing a court ruling that found the state mismanaged its fisheries. The decision had found the state failed in its duty to protect and manage fish populations in public waters, a verdict with significant implications for commercial and recreational fishing regulation. State officials are now contesting that finding, and the appeal will determine how much authority the state retains over its fisheries management going forward.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation says sections of NC 12, the main route along the Outer Banks, remain closed after ocean overwash covered parts of the road. Drivers are being warned to expect disruptions until crews can clear sand and water and confirm the highway is safe to reopen. NC 12 is the only road linking many Outer Banks communities, so closures typically affect residents, visitors and emergency access.