Staff (Local) – May 29, 2025

Currituck County, North Carolina, often referred to as “The Northern Outer Banks,” has been bustling with news ranging from community initiatives to public safety concerns. From educational milestones to weather alerts and law enforcement activities, here’s a roundup of what’s been happening in this coastal community as of late May 2025.

School Bus Incident Sparks Community Concern

On May 16, 2025, a troubling incident unfolded involving a Currituck County school bus. Samantha Spoor, a 35-year-old local parent, faces misdemeanor charges of impeding a school bus, disorderly conduct, and communicating threats after allegedly boarding a bus and using profane and derogatory language, including a racial slur, directed at students. The event, captured on video, prompted Currituck County Schools to issue a statement condemning the behavior and confirming that the matter is under investigation by the Currituck County Sheriff’s Office. The district emphasized that only authorized personnel and students are permitted on school buses, underscoring their commitment to student safety. Spoor is scheduled to appear in court by the end of June. This incident has raised questions about school transportation protocols, with ongoing discussions about potential policy updates to prevent future occurrences.

Weather Alerts and Coastal Safety

Currituck County’s coastal location makes it susceptible to weather-related challenges. On May 27, 2025, the National Weather Service issued an updated beach hazards statement for Eastern Currituck, effective from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., warning of dangerous coastal conditions. Earlier in the year, on February 3, 2025, a dense fog advisory affected Western and Eastern Currituck, along with neighboring counties, urging residents to exercise caution due to near-zero visibility. These alerts highlight the county’s ongoing need to stay vigilant about weather impacts, especially for residents and visitors near the coast. Additionally, Currituck County Parks and Recreation canceled T-ball games on May 27 due to inclement weather, rescheduling them for June 17.

Community Initiatives for Health and Welfare

Currituck County is actively engaging its residents through community-focused programs. On June 11 and 18, 2025, the county will offer free wellness checks to residents, promoting health and well-being. Another notable initiative is the county’s $20,000 allocation for a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program aimed at managing the feral cat population humanely. These efforts reflect Currituck’s commitment to fostering a healthy and sustainable community environment.

Advancements in Education and Infrastructure

Education remains a priority in Currituck County, with significant developments in both infrastructure and recognition of educators. On March 27, 2025, Currituck County and Elizabeth City State University broke ground on a new flight training center in Maple, NC. This facility is expected to boost educational opportunities and contribute to the local economy by training future aviation professionals. Additionally, Currituck County Schools celebrated its 2025 Distinguished Educators, sharing a digital photo album and press release on May 28 to honor their contributions. The district also maintains open communication with families through weekly digital reminders, such as those shared for May 26-30, ensuring parents stay informed about school activities.

Sheriff’s Office Tackles Crime and Safety

The Currituck County Sheriff’s Office has been active in addressing public safety concerns. In February 2025, the office sought public assistance to locate Karen Leigh Martin, a missing and at-risk woman last seen at an assisted living facility in Moyock on February 18. She was believed to be traveling in a silver 2016 Nissan Pathfinder. The Sheriff’s Office also responded to a road rage incident on US 168 in February, resulting in the arrest of Frederick Tharrington III, a 32-year-old Camden man, on gun charges after shots were fired, damaging a vehicle. Additionally, a high-speed chase on February 9 ended with the arrest of Tevin Maurice Charles, 25, inside a Food Lion for charges including felony possession of marijuana and fleeing to elude arrest. Earlier, on January 8, the District Attorney cleared a deputy involved in a September 2024 officer-involved shooting, deeming the actions lawful. These incidents underscore the Sheriff’s Office’s efforts to maintain safety amid diverse challenges.

Looking Ahead

Currituck County continues to balance growth, safety, and community engagement. The ferry operations between Currituck and Knotts Island remain on schedule, supporting connectivity for residents. Meanwhile, the county’s proactive approach to education, health, and public safety demonstrates its commitment to residents’ quality of life. For the latest updates, residents can follow Currituck County Schools on social media, visit WAVY.com, and BlackwaterReports.org for news, or check the Currituck County Sheriff’s Office website for safety alerts. As the Northern Outer Banks, Currituck is poised to continue its development while addressing the challenges of a dynamic coastal community.