Good morning, Spartanburg.

A ruptured water main shut down part of Union Street (near 801 Union St) in Spartanburg, according to the fire department.

Motorists are advised to find alternate routes (while repair work continues) until the road reopens.

A 31-year-old motorcyclist from Greenville died when his bike hit a dead deer on SC 290 near Smith Road at 5:54 a.m. Thursday–a Chrysler minivan struck one of the ejected riders while the other was taken to Spartanburg Regional Hospital, and a forensic exam on the victim will take place Saturday.

Spartanburg educator Desiree Gomez was rescued from Syria in a high risk humanitarian operation and was welcomed with her family at GSP International Airport on July 23; she now shares details of her experience.

Cooling centers open today in Spartanburg, Greenville and Anderson counties to help residents beat extreme heat as temperatures are set to approach 98 degrees with heat indexes above 105 degrees.

Local fire departments and organizations like HOPE Mission—partnering with local ministries and libraries—are running centers through July 26, with some staying open until July 28.

Former Sheriff Chuck Wright’s questionable credit card spending and a diesel incinerator incident have eroded trust in the sheriff’s office.

The next sheriff will work to rebuild trust by holding town halls and forming advisory councils — candidates propose clear steps for improved accountability.

Spartanburg County Sheriff candidates have been featured in interviews on WSPA with sessions airing each weeknight at 8 p.m.—Ric Stephens was interviewed on July 23 by Fred Cunningham, and the remaining candidates will appear before the primary election.

Backyard Movie Nights: Night at the Museum

8-10:30 p.m. — Spartanburg Marriott — Free entry — Enjoy a magical evening under the stars with the family-friendly film Night at the Museum.

Fretwell Market

9 AM - 1 PM — Fretwell — Free entry — Explore seasonal food, local gifts, and artisan crafts at this vibrant community market.

Lawson Brothers Band Live Performance

7 PM - 1 AM — Local Hiker Pub — Entry details not specified — Enjoy a high-energy blend of country music from the dynamic Lawson Brothers DUO.

Free Shred Event for Financial Privacy

9 AM – 1 PM — South Carolina Federal Credit Union — Free event — Protect your privacy while donating to the Harvest Hope Food Bank.