Durham Police Investigate Shooting; Schools Host Job Fair as Gas Prices Climb

It’s been a busy start to the weekend in Durham, with public safety concerns, education hiring efforts and rising gas prices all making headlines.

Pre-Dawn Shooting Shuts Down Ellis Road

Durham police closed the 600 block of Ellis Road early Saturday after reports of gunfire near the railroad tracks. Officers rerouted traffic to East Pettigrew Street and Glover Road while investigators combed the scene.

Television crews on site reported numerous evidence markers along the roadway. As of Saturday morning, police had not released details about injuries or arrests. The investigation remains active.

Durham Public Schools Hosts Major Job Fair

Durham Public Schools held its annual spring job fair this weekend at Northern High School, aiming to recruit teachers and support staff amid ongoing statewide staffing shortages.

The hiring push follows a recent state report highlighting thousands of classroom vacancies across North Carolina earlier this school year. District leaders say events like this are key to strengthening local classrooms ahead of the 2026–27 academic year.

NC-54 Waterline Work Continues

The City of Durham provided an update Friday on the NC-54 waterline replacement project. Crews have been installing new water mains along Falconbridge Road and within easements west of George King Road.

Additional service line work is scheduled for next week, with temporary lane closures expected in the coming weeks as construction progresses.

Gas Prices Edge Higher Across the Triangle

Drivers are also feeling pressure at the pump. Average gas prices in Durham and the broader Triangle climbed this week, hovering around the $3.18 to $3.19 range, according to regional tracking reports.

The increase comes as national markets react to ongoing international tensions, with analysts warning that volatility could continue in the short term.