Lake Hickory

A swim beach in Alexander County, North Carolina, reopened after over 6,000 gallons of untreated wastewater spilled into Lake Hickory's Wittenburg Access area due to a pump station equipment failure. Water quality tests showed slightly elevated bacteria levels, but officials confirmed the beach would remain open through the week.

A body was discovered near Lake Hickory in Caldwell County on Thursday evening, July 2, according to the sheriff’s office. Deputies found the body off Driftwood Drive in Granite Falls and transported it to the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy. The sheriff’s office is investigating the circumstances of the death.

A person was found dead near Lake Hickory. Detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.

A body was discovered floating in Lake Hickory near an old train trestle on Thursday. Caldwell County sheriff’s deputies and Wildlife officers responded to reports received around 5:15 p.m. at Driftwood Drive. The investigation is in its early stages, with no details released about the deceased's identity or circumstances.

Alexander County leaders hope to reopen Wittenburg Swim Beach in Bethlehem after a sewage spill caused by a lightning strike leaked 6,000 gallons of wastewater into Lake Hickory. Water testing results will determine if the beach can reopen before the Fourth of July, with mixed reactions from residents.

Over 6,000 gallons of untreated wastewater spilled into Lake Hickory near the Wittenburg Access boat ramp due to a pump station equipment failure. The beach was temporarily closed, and water quality monitoring is ongoing. Officials reported the equipment has been repaired.

Approximately 6,080 gallons of untreated wastewater were discharged into Lake Hickory, which is part of the Catawba River basin. The spill occurred at a public access area.