Charleston News Today | 2 Min | The Daily News Now!

North Charleston’s police are deploying nearly 200 automatic license plate readers to crack cases faster—from hit-and-runs to homicides—by instantly identifying suspect vehicles when tips come in. The system isn’t live-monitored but used reactively, slashing investigation time. Privacy concerns are acknowledged, with safeguards like 90-day data auto-deletion and auditable search logs. Still, nationwide debates rage over surveillance ethics, with experts calling for clear digital rights and regulations. By year’s end, a real-time crime center will centralize access, overseen by supervisors to ensure responsible use.

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When Len Fouch nearly died from a brutal COVID-19 infection, his survival hinged on one nurse—Cat Wynkoop—who became his lifeline in the ICU. Sedated and restrained, Fouch was brought back from the brink not just by medicine, but by her emotional care: playing his favorite music, keeping his family close through video calls, and offering unwavering presence during a time when hope was scarce. For the exhausted staff drowning in loss, his recovery was a miracle. For Fouch, she was an angel. For Wynkoop, he was a light that reignited her purpose. Their story is a powerful test...

Charleston County School District is launching Palmetto Excel — a fresh chance for adults 21 and older to earn their high school diplomas, no matter life’s detours. Designed for those who paused their education due to work, family, or life’s demands, this flexible program opens doors to new opportunities and personal triumphs. Enroll today — your next chapter starts now.

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A jury in North Charleston convicted Levi Richardson III of murder in a 2021 shooting, finding him guilty after just three days of trial and two hours of deliberation. Prosecutors presented surveillance footage showing Richardson approaching victim Johnathan Smith and firing first — rejecting self-defense claims. His defense argued insufficient evidence and called for reasonable doubt, though Richardson chose not to testify. The judge sentenced him to 35 years, falling between the prosecution’s requested 40 and defense’s 30. Victim’s family addressed the court before sentencing, underscoring the gravity of a life-altering moment.

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Record-breaking class sizes and bustling move-in days are setting the stage for a vibrant new academic year at the College of Charleston, as nearly 3,500 students settle in — some after epic 14-hour drives — amid smooth logistics, early arrivals, and carefully planned dorm setups.

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South Carolina’s Department of Social Services is slamming Pawleys Island Christian Academy for misleading the public—claiming a licensing delay caused the shutdown, when in reality, the school’s own leadership resignations and arrests left them unable to legally operate without a qualified director who passed background checks. DSS says PICA failed to propose any suitable candidate, making the closure—and loss of its license—its own fault. This follows the fallout from convicted sex offender Warren Perry’s employment at the academy, multiple arrests among church and school affiliates, and ongoing lawsuits. The current leadership at Pawleys Island Commu...

Alex Murdaugh’s legal team is pushing hard to move his retrial to Charleston — their only acceptable choice — but the court is resisting, calling it the most logistically and financially brutal option. With trial set for Masters week, hotel prices could skyrocket, making Charleston a costly nightmare. Murdaugh was originally convicted in 2023 for killing his wife and son, and got a new trial after the Supreme Court ruled that jury tampering by former Clerk Becky Hill tainted the original verdict. The state now argues other counties like Spartanburg or Florence would be far more practical, forcing a tense standoff as bot...

South Carolina’s Republican Senate primary heads to a runoff between Darline Graham and Ralph Norman, with the winner set to challenge Democrat Annie Andrews in the general election. Meanwhile, dangerously high heat indices could hit 115 degrees along the coast as July becomes the fourth-warmest on record for Charleston. A James Island mansion just sold for $13.98 million — a new local record — complete with eight baths, a private dock, and a saltwater pool. C.E. Williams Middle School North Campus locked down on its first day back after gunshots nearby led to an arrest of a 21-year-old. And in conservation news...

A shocking school shooting in Gaffney, South Carolina, left a 17-year-old student dead at a bus stop on the third day of school, sparking grief and fear across the community. Witnesses say a fight escalated into gunfire, with 15 students nearby. The shooter fled in a vehicle driven by another person, and authorities are reviewing footage as they investigate. No suspect has been named, but police vow to protect students and bring justice. Local leaders and housing officials are calling for unity, compassion, and action against senseless violence as the town mourns together.

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Missing Woman in Orangeburg County | Charleston News

The Perseid meteor shower is at its peak right now, offering a dazzling celestial show under a new moon—perfect for stargazers. With up to 100 meteors per hour between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., this ancient cosmic event, triggered by debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle, is a free, awe-inspiring reminder of our place in the universe. Grab your blankets, head outside away from city lights, and witness nature’s fireworks.

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Prysmian North America is pouring $80 million into a major expansion in Lexington County, set to create over 130 new jobs and supercharge their U.S. manufacturing capacity—making them one of just three companies nationwide producing critical optical fiber and cable infrastructure that powers the digital age. With operations spanning 50+ countries and existing roots in South Carolina, this May 2028 launch signals a deep commitment to the region and positions Lexington as a key player in the tech supply chain. Local leaders are thrilled—this isn’t just growth; it’s a strategic investment in the future.

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South Carolina’s in the middle of a heated debate over daylight saving time—should it be permanent year-round or stick to the seasonal switch? Supporters of the Sunshine Protection Act crave endless evening light, while others prefer the winter trade-off: earlier sunrises at the cost of darker mornings. From surfers to school kids to business owners, everyone’s weighing in. The state’s running a survey until August 31—your voice matters. Vote before the clock strikes midnight.

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A heartbreaking tragedy struck Gaffney, South Carolina, Wednesday morning when a high school student died in a shooting near a school bus stop — just as students were returning for the new school year. Authorities are treating the scene as highly active and have urged residents to avoid the area while they investigate. With tight control over details and heavy law enforcement presence, the community reels from this senseless violence. Updates will be shared as they emerge.

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South Carolinians are losing millions to scams—with over $2.25 million reported in just six months. Purchase scams and fake debt threats lead the pack, fueled by relentless phone calls targeting hotspots like Richland, Greenville, and Horry. Crypto scams alone stole $318K. Authorities warn against pressure tactics demanding crypto, gift cards, or wire transfers—and offer free weekly webinars to help you dodge these traps. Stay sharp: knowledge is your best defense.

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Charleston’s sweltering heat is here to stay—temperatures hitting 110° with a dangerous heat advisory in effect through tomorrow. Stay cool, hydrate, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or stroke. Meanwhile, the Charleston City Paper’s $25K campaign is rallying support for independent journalism that’s won over 200 awards since 1997. In politics, Darline Graham faces off against Ralph Norman in a Senate runoff after a crowded primary. Education news: A school trustee used AI to answer a press question, while Greg Mathis Charter High School becomes Charleston-run—and college students are flooding downtown, causing road closures. Folly Beach eyes new dr...

A historic push is underway to erect the first monument on Washington D.C.’s National Mall honoring American women’s contributions—marking a long-awaited tribute to their struggles, achievements, and enduring legacy. Led by executive vice president Kimberly Wallner, the Women’s Suffrage National Monument Foundation has launched a nationwide “Monumental Ideas” campaign, inviting the public to shape how women’s history is represented in this iconic space. With a vision for inclusivity and lasting impact, the project seeks to create an inspiring, educational landmark that celebrates the diverse roles women have played in shaping the nation—for generations to c...

Berkeley County Schools is launching a major safety overhaul as the new school year begins, deploying random weapons screenings, school resource officers at every campus, and new traffic safety officers trained by law enforcement to handle crossing guards—freeing up SROs to focus on campus security. A new director for school safety and emergency management has also been appointed. Five high schools are piloting student ID cards to identify students in emergencies and restrict access to campus, with plans to expand the system to include cafeteria purchases and bus tracking. With nearly 40,000 students returning, the district is making sweeping ch...

Don’t just grab your gear and hit the water—safety first, always. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or just hanging with the crew in South Carolina’s gorgeous waters, make sure everyone’s life jackets fit, watch the skies for weather changes, stay aware of other boats and wildlife, ditch distractions like phones, and never operate a boat under the influence. Your fun on the water shouldn’t come at the cost of safety—stick to these basics and enjoy a smooth, secure summer season out there.

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Eugene Frazier Sr., a trailblazing Black police officer and historian from James Island, passed away at 90, leaving behind a legacy of courage, justice, and cultural preservation. One of Charleston County’s first Black officers in 1966, he earned the nickname “the known enforcer” for his unmatched detective skills and won Officer of the Year in 1972—a rare triumph for a Black cop at the time. He didn’t stop there: in 1976, he sued the department over racial promotion barriers, losing the case but paving the way for greater diversity. Retiring as a lieutenant after 25 years, he solved nearly every case he touched...

Berkeley County’s schools are exploding with growth—40,000 students back in classrooms, three new campuses opening this week, and renovations underway at high schools—all funded by a 2022 voter-approved penny sales tax. But with rapid expansion comes chaos: families navigating five rezonings, kids losing social ties, and classrooms swelling with extra students. Staffing’s a nightmare too—18 teacher vacancies to start the year, special ed roles unfilled, and educators being stretched thin across multiple schools. Pay hikes haven’t stopped the brain drain; many teachers feel undervalued and are fleeing for neighboring districts. This isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’...

The race to replace late Senator Lindsey Graham is heating up as his sister, Darline Graham, wins the special primary with over 32% of the vote — a strong showing backed by major endorsements. A runoff looms in two weeks, and political insiders are eyeing Ralph Norman as the likely opponent. With ten candidates initially in the field — including former Governor Mark Sanford, who earned 15% but missed the runoff — Republicans now face the critical task of choosing their nominee for November, as they prepare to carry forward Graham’s legacy.

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Senator Darline Graham is headed to a runoff for South Carolina’s Republican Senate nomination after narrowly securing enough votes to advance — with Reps. Ralph Norman and Russell Fry trailing closely behind. Backed by President Trump, who praised her as the ideal choice to carry on her late brother’s legacy, Graham has been busy in Washington voting on key issues like AG confirmation and Russian sanctions while touting her focus on families’ struggles. Meanwhile, rivals emphasize legislative experience and conservative credentials. The August 25 runoff will determine who faces Democratic nominee Annie Andrews in November — and given South Carolina’s GOP lean...

Darline Graham, appointed to fill her brother Lindsey Graham’s Senate seat just one month after his death, has advanced to the Republican runoff in South Carolina — a race shaped by grief, politics, and Trump’s endorsement. With a field including House members Ralph Norman and Russell Fry, plus former Governor Mark Sanford, voters weigh loyalty to the late senator against fresh leadership. Democrat Annie Andrews, a Charleston physician who initially targeted Graham, now faces the GOP nominee in a historic general election battle — the first time in decades a Democrat could win South Carolina’s Senate seat. The August 25...

In a gripping murder trial for Levi Richardson III in North Charleston, a key witness recounts how he saw Richardson pull a gun during a tense confrontation with 21-year-old Jonathan Smith on December 11, 2021. The witness claims he initially thought the weapon was aimed at him and fled the truck just before shots were fired, describing escalating physical conflict between Smith and Richardson. While admitting he knew Smith had a firearm and feared he might draw it, the witness insists he never saw Smith actually pull the gun or make a threat. The defense is leveraging this ambiguity to argue...

South Carolina Republicans head to the polls today in a fiercely contested Senate race to fill the seat left by the late Lindsey Graham, with President Trump backing Darline Graham — his newly appointed appointee — amid stiff competition from seasoned conservatives like Ralph Norman and Mark Sanford, and rising contender Russell Fry. Voters are weighing endorsements against policy experience, especially on fiscal conservatism and debt reduction, as early turnout surges, signaling a pivotal moment for the GOP’s future — whoever wins will face Democratic nominee Annie Andrews in November.

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South Carolina’s Senate primary just wrapped up — and it’s a make-or-break moment for the state’s future in Washington. After a decade without a new senator, voters chose their Republican nominee to face Democratic incumbent Dr. Annie Andrews in the general election. With no clear majority yet, a runoff looms on August 25th if needed. The race is tight, the stakes are high, and we’re watching every vote count as this pivotal contest shapes the next chapter of South Carolina’s voice in Congress.

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An American Airlines flight from Myrtle Beach aborted takeoff after engine fire, triggering a mayday—no injuries, but FAA now investigates amid bird strike reports. The incident echoes the “Miracle on the Hudson,” reminding us how critical safety protocols are when nature and aviation collide.

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West Ashley High’s LEGO Club is back, building more than just models—they’re crafting community, kindness, and inclusion across the school. Twice a month, students from pre-K to 12th grade come together to build, bond, and celebrate creativity through LEGO sets, games, and movies. Their creations brighten the cafeteria and even honor teachers with custom gifts. Funded by your support via DonorsChoose, this initiative directly uplifts under-resourced classrooms—because when kids build together, they connect better, learn deeper, and grow stronger—one brick at a time.

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Sky’s on fire with the Perseid meteor shower peaking at up to 100 shooting stars an hour—some glowing green-blue—and a rare six-planet alignment before dawn. On Earth, South Carolina’s sea turtles are thriving thanks to smart shrimp net laws and dedicated conservation efforts. Meanwhile, North Charleston’s police chief stepped down amid internal misconduct concerns, while chef Jordan Snider leads Team USA to gold in pastry competition, heading to France for the first time. And Greg Mathis Charter High is now under district control to fix financial and academic woes while preserving its personalized learning mission.

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Sky’s on fire with the Perseid meteor shower peaking at up to 100 shooting stars an hour—some glowing green-blue—and a rare six-planet alignment before dawn. On Earth, South Carolina’s sea turtles are thriving thanks to smart shrimp net laws and dedicated conservation efforts. Meanwhile, North Charleston’s police chief stepped down amid internal misconduct concerns, while chef Jordan Snider leads Team USA to gold in pastry competition, heading to France for the first time. And Greg Mathis Charter High is now under district control to fix financial and academic woes while preserving its personalized learning mission.

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Folly Beach is rolling out a new drone safety rule to protect everyone on the shore—locals and visitors alike. After incidents like drones getting too close to swimmers or tangling fishing lines, officials broadened their approach from targeting just drone fishing to regulating all drone use. Now, anyone flying a drone will need certification and a permit, similar to getting a driver’s license. The Beach Patrol will enforce it. Beachgoers support the move, citing safety concerns when drones fall. The ordinance is still in early stages, with penalties yet to be set, but the goal is clear: keep...

Two guys got busted early Monday in North Charleston after mall security caught them hacking into a cooking oil tank with a cutting wheel and siphoning the grease. Found in a greasy white van, they tried to bluff their way out—until cops dropped surveillance footage proving they broke in. Now booked and facing serious charges, this bizarre theft shows how even used cooking oil can spark criminal schemes.

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IEB Americas, a German industrial battery charging giant, is launching its first North American hub right here in North Charleston — a $1.5 million investment creating 30 new jobs and building a full-service center for production, warehousing, service, and training. Local leaders are thrilled, calling it proof Charleston County is a top spot for business growth. If you’re job-hunting in tech or manufacturing, this could be your next move — check their LinkedIn for openings. Another big win for Charleston’s economy.

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Hanahan’s long-awaited walkable town center, Blackwell’s Corner, is rising from the legacy of a beloved 80-year-old hardware store—and it’s set to open in fall 2027. Built on community input and designed to keep national chains out, this vibrant hub will house local restaurants, shops, and offices, creating a true neighborhood heart right in the city limits. Already signed: Untitled Pizza Co., a new Italian market & wine bar from a top local chef, and Charleston’s favorite coffee spot returning for a second location. A preview event kicks off this September, with leasing still available for other local busi...

A brazen robbery at a Little Caesars in North Charleston left a worker shaken after a suspect jumped from behind a dumpster, snatched deposit bags, and vanished—police and K-9 units are hunting for him, urging the public to come forward with any tips.

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Greenville and Charleston, South Carolina, just snagged top honors as two of the nation’s best cities in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards—proving the Palmetto State’s rising star power. Charleston dazzles with its historic charm, culinary scene, and coastal allure, while Greenville shines with rapid growth, mountain access, vibrant business energy, and iconic Falls Park. Both cities stand out for their unique vibes, joining elite company like Santa Fe, Chicago, and New York City—showcasing how the South is redefining what makes a destination unforgettable.

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Missing Teen in Charleston | Charleston News

When Charleston County School District trustee Leah Whatley used AI to draft a response to a newspaper—accidentally leaving in the phrase “Recommended response”—it sparked debate about AI’s role in education and public communication. The district has since rolled out clear guidelines, approved in January 2026, that allow AI for educational purposes but strictly forbid presenting it as original work without disclosure. Teachers can set assignment-specific rules, and misuse could violate academic integrity. Whatley, who uses AI as a research and drafting tool, stressed it should enhance—not replace—critical thinking. The incident underscores the broader conversation: how to responsibly...

German energy tech giant IEB Americas is making its U.S. manufacturing debut in North Charleston, investing $1.5 million and creating 30 new jobs at their first American production hub on Carolina Commerce Parkway. The facility will handle everything from manufacturing and warehousing to training — all designed to speed up delivery and strengthen supply chains for U.S. customers. Company leaders are thrilled to anchor their growth in Charleston, while Governor McMaster hailed the move as a major win for South Carolina’s economy and workforce. Job seekers can find openings on their LinkedIn page.

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