Neuse News' top stories from October
Publisher’s note: Neuse News began a soft launch on June 13, 2018 and two weeks later began a full digital publication to include the Neuse Newsletter, online stories, and social media links and videos. As we look back at 2018, we’re sharing the top five stories from June through December. Thank you for believing in us. Thank you for subscribing. And, thank you for allowing us to help tell our community’s story.
#5 Friday afternoon shooting sends one to the hospital
by Neuse News
Reports of gunshots near Herritage Street on October 12 led to the arrest of a father and son in an incident that sent one man to the hospital. Jeffrey Donnell Sutton and Jeffrey Donnell Sutton, Jr. were both arrested and charged with two counts of attempted murder and discharging a firearm into a vehicle.
The second vehicle involved in the shooting was found at UNC Lenoir, where a victim had been taken for a possible gunshot wound. The police investigation into the incident revealed that the shooting was not a random act of violence, but was the result of an acquaintance between the parties involved.
#4 Kinston Clinic South sold
by Catherine Hardee
A familiar business location in Kinston changed hands, and its new owners have big plans for it. The Kinston Clinic South, formerly a location for many doctor’s offices was sold to Linda and J. Ward McConnell, Jr. in September.
Linda McConnell was very excited by the acquisition, and shared her hopes for the property with Neuse News. She wanted to use the property as a way to attract new businesses to the area, and bring more retail and dining opportunities to her community.
#3 Conner Craft becomes the 2019 Distinguished Young Woman of Lenoir County
by Neuse News
The Distinguished Young Woman program saw seven young women from Lenoir County competing to earn the title for 2019. The 2018 winner, Anne-Wesley Taylor, participated in the program, held at the Kinston High School Performing Arts Center.
Conner Craft won the title, which also earned her a $3,500 scholarship. She also received the Spirit Award, which came with a $500 scholarship presented by Jimmy and Daphne Pollock. Cailyn Kennedy was the First Runner-up, and Karmen Heath was the Second Runner-up.
#2 Applebee’s on West Vernon Ave has closed
by Neuse News
Neuse News was the first to report that a popular local restaurant closed without warning. A letter taped to the door of the Applebee’s restaurant on Highway 70 apologized to patrons for the closure, inviting them to visit other regional locations.
The closure was made obvious when workers began taking down the large sign. No reason for the location closing was made available to the public.
#1 Arrests made in Saturday's midday shootings near Carolina, Waverly and Fairfield Avenues
by Neuse News
A day after the shooting near Herritage St., two teens walking near Fairfield park were injured by gunfire around midday. Zyquan Lewis and Daveyontae Miller were both transported to Vidant Medical Center for treatment. Lewis was later arrested for possession of a stolen firearm, which it appeared he fired at the shooter. Tajhmere Hyman Turnage, 16, who was already in custody for other charges, was charged with attempted murder in the incident.
The Kinston Police Department assured the community that it was putting all available resources toward investigating the case, and ensuring the safety of all citizens. Mayor Don Hardy expressed his outrage at the outbreak of violence, and acknowledged that the second shooting seemed to be retaliation for the previous shooting.