Akilah Davis, WTVD-TV (Durham, NC) Journalist Profile

Articles

Durham's Downtown blueprint for 2035 aims to 'create destinations that draw people in'

1 day ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Downtown Durham's vision for 2035 is a bright one that includes its rich history, culture and growth. Its vibrancy was a big draw for Amber Brennan who just opened a second location of her business Rose & Lee nine months ago. Her first business venture for the women's clothing boutique is in Apex. "We saw an opportunity here in Durham for a great, vibrant community," she said. She believes what makes the downtown Durham location unique is the foot traffic from events.
Catholic community in Raleigh mourns, share memories of Pope Francis: 'Big loss'

3 days ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Profound grief and disbelief are felt throughout the Roman Catholic community following the passing of Pope Francis. Parishioners at Sacred Heart Catholic Church reacted to his death. "It's a big loss to our community and to the world," said Francoise LaPierre. Alyssa Pitstick described Pope Francis' passing as the loss of a family member.
'Really devastating'

6 days ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

GOLDSBORO, N.C. (WTVD) -- There are still many questions Jennifer Allio and her loved ones have nine months after her first cousin, Caitlin Hodges was reported missing. Their questions come after the Wayne County Sheriff's Office confirmed that human remains found last fall in a wooded area were of 29-year-old Hodges. "We want an end to this for my family," said Allio.
'You took someone away from family'

1 week ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- The boyfriend of the Fayetteville woman whose remains were found in a body of water in Robeson County was arrested in connection with her death. Tyrique Williams, 26, is being charged with First Degree Murder and Concealment of Death. The Pulaski County Sheriff's Office said Williams is also facing dismemberment charges. He was arrested by U.S. Army CID at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and transported to the Pulaski County Sheriff's Office in Waynesville, Missouri.
'She left too early'

1 week ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- City councilwoman Courtney Banks-McLaughlin is turning a tragedy into triumph two years after losing her oldest daughter, Coryonna Treasure Young in an accidental shooting. The family is still heartbroken, but intentional about keeping her legacy alive. She established a memorial endowment through the Cumberland County Foundation in honor of her 15-year-old daughter.
'10 percent increase'

1 week ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

CARY, N.C. (WTVD) -- Every Friday is game night at Hangar 18 Hobbies. Gamers Ryan Kelly and Brandon Jimenez are setting up for the tabletop game Warhammer 40,000. "Typically, me and my buddy play every Friday just casually trying to get better at the game," said Brandon Jimenez. "It's Chaos-Based Marines vs. Emperor's Children."Kelly likes to add models to his collection and he's noticed he's had to pay more when buying from third party sellers overseas as of late.
Domestic violence deaths on the rise across North Carolina, advocates say

2 weeks ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Domestic violence advocates are warning that cases are on the rise across the state. They said over the last two and a half weeks, there have been six domestic violence deaths across the state. "Domestic violence is prevalent and pervasive throughout all our communities. It does not discriminate," said Nisha Williams, legal director with the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
'Don't want history erased'

2 weeks ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Anita Neville is proud of the legacy her father created in the historic Hayti community. It was once a Black economic engine moving full steam ahead with tons of thriving businesses within steps of North Carolina Central University. It was also home to many prominent African American leaders. Her father owned Turner Beauty and Barber Supply. "It was a retail wholesale beauty and barber supply business. My father serviced beauty, barber shops and drugstores," said Anita Neville.
'Everything is more expensive'

3 weeks ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Mary Chyatte has four children under the age of 10 years old, and she admits, groceries have become expensive. The economy is a major concern for this entrepreneur, who now buys in bulk to save money on her grocery bill. "We're doing a lot of box shopping for Costco and Sam's Club, then shopping sales for clothing and things like that," she said. "Everything is more expensive right now."This week, President Trump announced 25 percent tariffs on foreign auto parts and cars.
'People don't have the money'

4 weeks ago | abc11.com | Akilah Davis

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- If there's anyone who knows where car parts are manufactured, it's Keith Edwards, owner and operator of Uncles Auto Shop. He's been a mechanic for more than 20 years. "We're neighbor-based. Lot of people in the neighborhood come to us," said Edwards. "I've seen the rise in costs in parts on the last three years. They've been rising. A lot of customers I tell them what they need.