5 Essential Facts About ABC 11 North Carolina (WTVD) That Drive The Research Triangle's News Landscape

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ABC 11 North Carolina (WTVD) remains the definitive source of local news and investigative journalism for the dynamic Research Triangle region, encompassing the critical markets of Raleigh, Durham, and Fayetteville. As of December 2025, the station is undergoing notable shifts in its on-air talent and continuing its tradition of deep-dive reporting that directly impacts the lives of over a million households in the Heart of Carolina region.

The station, officially known by its call sign WTVD and broadcasting on Channel 11, is an ABC Owned Television Station and a key component of Disney Entertainment. Its commitment to local coverage is evidenced by providing over 50 hours of news programming every week, ensuring residents are constantly updated on breaking news, First Alert Weather forecasts, and traffic conditions across Central North Carolina.

The New Faces and Veterans of the ABC 11 Eyewitness News Team

The strength of ABC 11 lies in its dedicated team of journalists, meteorologists, and reporters who possess a deep understanding of the local community and its complexities. A significant recent development has been the transition in the station’s premier evening newscast lineup.

In a major staffing update, Lauren Johnson was officially named the new evening news co-anchor, a move that injects fresh energy into the station's flagship broadcasts. Johnson is a seasoned journalist praised by WTVD News Director Bervette Carree as a "talented, compassionate, and seasoned journalist" and a "truth-seeker for all people." This appointment follows the retirement of longtime evening anchor Tisha Powell, who stepped away from broadcasting to return to her home state of Louisiana.

Key Anchors and Reporters Driving WTVD’s Coverage

  • Lauren Johnson: New Evening News Co-Anchor, bringing a focus on integrity and community-centered reporting.
  • Amber Rupinta: A prominent anchor and reporter known for her extensive experience covering local issues.
  • John Clark: Handles the critical weekday morning and noon newscasts, guiding viewers through the start of their day.
  • Steve Daniels: Anchors the weeknight 10 and 11 p.m. broadcasts, in addition to the 5 and 6 p.m. news.
  • Shae Crisson: A dedicated reporter who also anchors the weekend evening newscasts.
  • Rob Elmore: President and General Manager of ABC11/WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham, overseeing all station operations.

Uncovering the Truth: The Power of the ABC 11 I-Team Investigations

A cornerstone of WTVD’s commitment to public service is its acclaimed I-Team—a group of investigative journalists dedicated to holding power accountable and exposing systemic issues across North Carolina. This team’s work is vital for maintaining topical authority and trust in the community by tackling complex and often sensitive subjects.

The I-Team has recently been responsible for a number of high-impact reports that have led to tangible community action and official reviews. One notable investigation sparked a review of a 2023 hit-and-run case involving a suspect near Harris Lake, demonstrating the team's ability to revisit and push for justice in stalled cases. These investigations often focus on public safety, government transparency, and consumer protection.

For instance, the I-Team has previously delved into the operations of gun sellers in key cities like Raleigh, Durham, and Fayetteville who were flagged by the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) for potential off-the-books deals. This kind of reporting not only informs the public but also influences the enforcement of new NC laws and regulations designed to protect residents.

ABC 11’s Deep Commitment to North Carolina Community Initiatives

Beyond the news desk, ABC 11 WTVD actively engages with and invests in the communities it serves, solidifying its role as a true community partner. This engagement is a key differentiator, moving the station beyond a simple news provider to a catalyst for positive change in the Research Triangle and beyond.

The station has joined a significant local initiative aimed at advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in North Carolina media, recognizing the importance of diverse voices and perspectives in journalism. This effort ensures that the stories and concerns of all residents are accurately and fairly represented.

Furthermore, WTVD sponsors and promotes various outreach programs focused on public health and safety:

  • Fire Safety Initiatives: ABC 11 often partners with organizations like Kidde and Home Depot to sponsor fire safety events, such as a recent initiative in Harnett County, providing essential resources and education to local residents.
  • Health and Wellness: The station has highlighted and supported local groups, such as a Recovery Run Club in Raleigh, which helps individuals find community and support in their journey toward healing and recovery.
  • Community Engagement Internships: As part of the larger Disney corporate structure, ABC11 offers internships in Community Engagement, providing students with hands-on experience in media and local initiatives in Durham, NC.

The combination of these efforts—from investigative journalism to community partnerships—illustrates why ABC 11 WTVD is more than just Channel 11; it is an indispensable informational and civic resource for the entire Research Triangle Park area and its surrounding counties.

The Technical Backbone: WTVD’s Coverage and Accessibility

The station, licensed to Durham, North Carolina, has been serving the Heart of Carolina for over 60 years, providing critical coverage to the Triangle region, which includes Chapel Hill, Cary, Apex, and Goldsboro.

In the digital age, ABC 11 has significantly expanded its reach beyond traditional television broadcasting. Viewers can access the station's content through multiple platforms, ensuring they receive timely updates regardless of their location. The ABC11 North Carolina app provides instant access to breaking news alerts, the live stream of Eyewitness News, and real-time First Alert Weather updates, making it a primary tool for residents to stay informed during severe weather or major news events.

The station’s commitment to multiplatform delivery, including its presence on platforms like Roku and YouTube, ensures that its extensive local news coverage, including the in-depth work of the I-Team, is accessible to a younger, more digitally-focused audience across the entire coverage area of WTVD.

5 Essential Facts About ABC 11 North Carolina (WTVD) That Drive the Research Triangle's News Landscape
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