Citing garage jobs that would be lost and investments put at risk – and citing safety concerns, too – a legislative committee kills a bill that would end inspection requirements for cars from the three most recent model years.

A proposed fracking bill would legalize the natural gas drilling technique in the state within two years, giving state officials until 2014 to develop regulations to protect the environment and public health. Environmental groups say the proposal is rife with protections for gas industry.

Henry Frazier III was arrested in Morrisville and charged with assault on a female, according to arrest warrants.

John Edwards' defense team rested Wednesday without calling the two-time Democratic presidential candidate or his one-time mistress to the witness stand, a sign of confidence after presenting little more than two days of testimony and evidence.

William Friday, president emeritus of the University of North Carolina, is in critical condition at UNC Hospitals.

In a tense and hushed courtroom, Jason Williford stood and confirmed this story: he entered Kathy Taft's bedroom, seeking an adrenaline rush, then raped her and hit her three times - fracturing her skull.