UPDATE: A series of alarming incidents have erupted in Rowan County, North Carolina, with reports of thefts, assaults, and vehicle pursuits dominating the local crime scene. Authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant as multiple crimes unfolded over the weekend, sparking heightened concern in the community.
At 6:22 p.m. on January 20, 2026, a serious incident involving the possession or concealment of a weapon was reported at Mt. Moriah Church Road in Landis. Shortly thereafter, at 12:06 a.m., a dangerous vehicle pursuit occurred on the northbound side of Interstate 85 in China Grove, further escalating tensions in the area.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that at 2:13 a.m. on January 20, authorities apprehended an individual for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia on the same highway in Salisbury. This incident is part of a troubling trend as local police face increasing drug-related offenses.
In a separate report, a burglary by unlawful entry was reported at North Cannon Boulevard in Kannapolis, occurring between midnight on November 1, 2025, and midnight on January 14, 2026. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of property crime in the region.
Additionally, a theft was reported from a building located on Old Mocksville Road in Salisbury, occurring between noon on January 13 and noon on January 15. The incident was officially recorded on January 20.
In a particularly violent event, an assault occurred at Hope Hill Road in Salisbury at 5:20 p.m. on January 20. The escalating violence has raised alarms among local residents and law enforcement.
Another significant incident involved the theft of a motor vehicle at St. Peters Church Road in Gold Hill, which took place between 1 a.m. and 5:05 p.m. on January 20.
Authorities also reported a burglary by forcible entry and vandalism at Jacob Bost Road in Salisbury, occurring between 11 p.m. on January 19 and 11:30 p.m. on January 20. In connection with this spree, David Ray Canupp, aged 37, has been charged with felony attempting to obtain property by false pretenses, felony breaking and entering, and felony larceny after breaking and entering.
In incidents reported by the Salisbury Police Department, a discharging of a firearm was noted in the 500 block of South Craige Street at 1:09 a.m. on January 21. Vandalism was reported in the 1100 block of South Main Street between 4 p.m. on January 17 and 10:30 a.m. on January 21. Authorities are investigating these crimes thoroughly.
Moreover, a significant fraud case was reported in the 800 block of Fairmont Avenue, with an estimated loss of $16,800. This incident occurred between midnight on December 30, 2025, and 2 p.m. on January 16, 2026, underscoring the community’s vulnerability to financial crimes.
Lastly, an assault with a knife was reported in the 1400 block of Tilman Street between 6:45 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. on January 21, contributing to the rising concerns about safety in the area.
NEXT: Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement as investigations continue into these incidents. Local officials are focusing on community safety while addressing the recent spike in criminal activity.
