🌱 Man Killed In Shootout + Police Searching For Missing 14-Year-Old

Good morning, everybody. It's me, Michelle Paul, your host of the Winston-Salem Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with all the most important things happening in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Friday: Mostly cloudy and breezy. High: 73 Low: 53.
• Saturday: Cooler with periods of rain. High: 57 Low: 52.

Here are the top three stories in Winston-Salem today:

1. A barricaded individual who had taken his significant other hostage was fatally shot by a deputy from the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office during a Thursday morning incident. Deputies initially conducted a welfare check on a man sleeping in his car, identified as James Phillip White, Jr., who later became unresponsive and fled on foot after assaulting a deputy. White barricaded himself in a nearby house with his significant other, leading to the involvement of tactical teams and crisis negotiators. Despite unsuccessful attempts to subdue White, he ultimately confronted deputies with a sledgehammer, prompting an officer to fire a single shot, resulting in White's death. (WGHP FOX8 Greensboro)
2. James Dobson, a well-known barber from nearby High Point, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of mentoring young men and making a positive impact in the community. Many community members spoke highly of Dobson's guidance, support, and ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds through his faith. He not only provided jobs but also taught financial literacy and encouraged individuals to live positive lives. A vigil is planned by friends to commemorate Dobson's life and contributions on Greensboro Road in High Point next Wednesday, May 31, at 8:00 p.m. (WXII12 Winston-Salem)
3. Winston-Salem law enforcement is seeking assistance from the public in finding 14-year-old Laela Kamoria Jones, also known as "Laeka." She was last seen leaving her residence on foot at 3054 N. Patterson Ave. and was observed entering a green 2000 Buick Century with an unidentified individual from a nearby parking lot. Jones was wearing a robe with sparkling "DRIP" embellishments, black leggings, fluffy black slides, and a pink bonnet. If you have any information about her location, please contact the Winston-Salem Police Department, Crime Stoppers, or call 911 immediately. (City of Winston-Salem, NC - Government via Facebook)

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Today and tomorrow in Winston-Salem:

Friday, May 26

• Home And Community Care Block Grant Committee Meeting At Forsyth County Government Center (9:30 AM)

Saturday, May 27

• Fairgrounds Farmer's Market At Dixie Classic Fair Grounds (6:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• Are you looking to fill your social calendar this weekend? Check out the list of events happening in and around Winston-Salem this weekend at the link! (EventBrite)
• The City of Winston-Salem is reminding residents of the correct way to place garbage and recycle carts on the curb. Carts should be spaced at least three feet away from each other and other obstacles like mailboxes, trees, and fences. This makes it easier, and safer, for trucks and workers to collect your garbage and recycling. (City of Winston-Salem, NC - Government via Facebook)
• The Forsyth Humane Society invites you to join its newly launched program, "Dog Day Out!" The initiative allows shelter dogs to experience outdoor exploration or cozy relaxation with you and your family. More information on how to participate is available at the link! (Forsyth Humane Society via Facebook)

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You're all caught up for today. I'll catch up with you soon with your next update!

— Michelle Paul

About me: Michelle Paul is a Utah-based writer and photographer with a professional background in content management and registered nursing. When not working on projects ranging from photo editing to copywriting, they enjoy traveling, video games, and expanding their skills.