Appalachia Daily Update - February 27, 2026

Investigation Underway After Unidentified Person Found Dead in Hiwassee Dam CommunityThe Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an unidentified person found on Cross Creek Lane in the Hiwassee Dam area. State Bureau of Investigation agents are assisting with the case.Authorities confirm no threat to the community as they work to identify the individual and notify next of kin.News as of: February 26, 2026.Chris Wood Sworn In as New Cherokee County SheriffChris Wood has officially taken the oath to complete the unexpired term following Dustin Smith’s resignation.The change provides continuity for law enforcement services in Cherokee County ahead of the March primary.News as of: February 24, 2026.Early Voting Ends Saturday for March 3 PrimaryIn-person early voting for the March 3 primary wraps up at 3 p.m. Saturday.This is the final opportunity for residents to cast ballots in key local races before Election Day on Tuesday.News as of: February 27, 2026.Soundcheck Friday – Murphy’s Braden Rumfelt Announces Two Upcoming ShowsMurphy native Braden Rumfelt, who is advancing on American Idol, will perform with his band in a free pop-up show March 5 at 6:30 p.m. at Western Carolina University’s University Center Grand Room. He will also take the stage at Myst Bar inside Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort on March 7 at 8 p.m.The events give local fans a chance to support one of our own as he chases a national spotlight.News as of: February 25-26, 2026.Where to listenhttps://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-PodcastsNotes, methods, and rightsThis Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit https://go.riverrun.digital This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital