FEMA Temporarily Halts Operations in North Carolina

In North Carolina, FEMA temporarily halted operations following threats against its workers in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Sheriff Phil Howell confirmed that while no specific threats were made in Ashe County, alarming incidents involving armed militias prompted FEMA to pause relief efforts as a precaution. A suspect, William Jacob Parsons, was arrested for making threats against FEMA personnel and charged with 'going armed to the terror of the public'. Reports suggest that rumors and conspiracy theories surrounding FEMA's aid efforts have exacerbated tensions in the community, with some residents expressing distrust. Despite initial reports of militia involvement, authorities clarified that Parsons acted alone, and FEMA workers returned to their duties shortly thereafter. The situation has drawn attention to the challenges faced by federal responders amid rising extremism and misinformation in the region.