Good morning, this is Charlotte Local Pulse for March 14, 2025.
We're starting with breaking news from overnight. Two Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers were injured in a shootout with a suspect in northeast Charlotte. The incident occurred around 11 PM last night, resulting in the suspect's death. A woman and child were also shot during the altercation and are currently in the hospital. The investigation is ongoing, and we'll bring you updates as they become available.
In weather news, Charlotte is bracing for potential severe storms this weekend. Chief Meteorologist Brad Panovich warns of possible damaging winds and heavy rainfall. Today's forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with a high of 72 degrees, perfect for outdoor activities before the storm system moves in.
Turning to city developments, the Charlotte City Council has approved a new initiative to expand affordable housing options. The plan aims to create 5,000 new affordable units over the next five years, focusing on areas near public transportation routes.
In business news, Epic Labor, a subsidiary of Metavesco Inc., has opened a new office in Charlotte, targeting the region's growing job market. The company plans to provide staffing and recruitment services across various industries, including finance, technology, and manufacturing.
Speaking of jobs, the tech sector in Charlotte continues to boom. Recent data shows a 50% jump in tech job postings over the past year, with nearly 30,000 tech professionals now calling Charlotte home. The average salary for back-end developers has reached $114,000 annually.
On the cultural front, don't forget that the Charlotte St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival takes over Tryon Street in Uptown tomorrow. The event promises a day full of Irish music, dance, and food. For sports fans, Charlotte FC faces Cincinnati at Bank of America Stadium on Saturday.
In education news, Ardrey Kell High School is dealing with the aftermath of a violent confrontation that has sparked hate crime claims. School officials and local authorities are investigating the incident, which has led to concerns about student safety and inclusivity.
Lastly, a heartwarming story from our community. Lifespan Services, a local nonprofit supporting individuals with disabilities, is highlighting the success of their job training programs. One participant, Bashir Gordy, recently landed a job interview thanks to the skills he developed through the organization's resources.
On the crime front, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is cracking down on street takeovers following an incident where an innocent bystander was shot during a chaotic gathering. CMPD is urging residents to report any suspicious activities related to these dangerous events.
This has been Charlotte Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
