Local News

Armed robbery suspect arrested

Photo: LPD Lexington, S.C. (WOLO)–Lexington police say they have arrested a suspect in a violent armed robbery. Investigators say Joseph Drafts, 46 of Greenwood was arrested at his home Wednesday. Police say on March 2nd Drafts gave the victim a ride to Kettle Ct. off of W. Main St. Once there, authorities say he began assaulting the victim while also…

DHEC announces 13 additional presumptive cases of Coronavirus in SC

DHEC says this brings the total number statewide to 60 cases in 14 counties

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– Wednesday, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control announced it is investigating 13 additional cases of coronavirus. DHEC says this brings the total number statewide to 60 cases in 14 counties. Per a release from SC DHEC: “We emphasize the importance of practicing disease prevention measures and following recommendations for social distancing to protect our…

Community member’s post to help neighbors inspires a network of people willing to help

But one community member is offering to help neighbors who may need assistance getting groceries.

Cayce, S.C. (WOLO) — The community continues to take things day by day, as the situation with coronavirus in the Midlands is constantly changing. But one community member is offering to help neighbors who may need assistance getting groceries. “The whole world is just so crazy right now, and I just want to be able to make someone’s day a…

Sumter County Council declares State of Emergency in County

SUMTER, SC (WOLO)– Sumter County Council declared a State of Emergency on Wednesday. According to officials, Sumter County Council held an Emergency Meeting to discuss an Emergency Ordinance regarding the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and its impact on Sumter County. County Council voted unanimously to approve the ordinance, which officials say authorizes Sumter County Administrator Gary Mixon to take any necessary actions…

City of Columbia curfew goes in effect tonight at 11PM

Image: Rochelle Dean Columbia,SC (WOLO)— Just days after declaring a State of Emergency, Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin has implemented a citywide curfew that will go into effect tonight,  Wednesday March 18th, 2020 from 11PM until 6AM. Under this declaration,  the City of Columbia will restrict travel and all public gatherings during the hours listed above. The only exceptions will be…

SC Governor Executive Order: Restaurants and bars must close dine-in services today

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued an Executive Order concerning coronavirus crisis

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– On Tuesday, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued an Executive Order requiring all restaurants and bars to close dine in services beginning Wednesday, March 18. Take Out , curbside and delivery will still be allowed. McMaster is also requiring the South Carolina Department of Revenue to delay all state tax filings until June 1, 2020. McMaster says…

Furman University announces school will not return for the Spring semester

Furman University will not return during the Spring 2020 semester amid coronavirus concerns

Image: Furman University@ Twitter Greenville, SC (WOLO) — Tuesday night Furman University updated information for their students and staff as information continues to change daily. The University announcing now that the institution will not be returning for school during the Spring semester. The Unversity President releasing this statement on the University website writing, “Dear Furman Community and Families, None of…

City of Columbia curfew to go in effect Wednesday

To prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin issues citywide curfew

Image: Rochelle Dean Columbia,SC (WOLO)— Just days after declaring a State of Emergency, Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin has implemented a citywide curfew that will go into effect tomorrow,  Wednesday March 18th, 2020 from 11PM until 6AM. Under this declaration,  the City will restrict travel and all public gatherings during the hours listed above. The only exceptions will be for those…

S.C. Senate passes $45 million emergency funding plan to fight COVID-19

The bill is set to be taken up in the House Thursday

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) –On Tuesday, the South Carolina Senate voted to give the state’s Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) a major boost in its fight against the coronavirus. Lawmakers voted 42-0 to provide DHEC with $45 million from the state’s contingency reserve fund to address public health needs. With nearly 50 positive cases of coronavirus reported in South Carolina…