A Community United at the Randolph Country Fair
Randolph County came alive on September 13, 2025, as thousands gathered at Veterans Community Park for the 19th Annual Randolph Country Fair. Hosted by Randolph Recreation and the Randolph Rotary, the event drew families from across the region for a day packed with
live music, food, and unique attractions—including a dinosaur exhibit and the iconic Batmobile.
Local bands like Sara Tavares, Owls & Lions, Phil Engel Band, and Stampede kept the crowd energized throughout the day. The fair’s beer garden and food stalls were bustling, and organizers hailed the event as “Randolph’s biggest event of the year.” For those who missed out, a rain date is set for September 27, promising another chance to join the festivities.
Heartbreak in Asheboro: The Search for Liam King
While the fair brought joy, Randolph County was also gripped by tragedy. The intensive search for 7-year-old Liam King, reported missing on September 7 in Asheboro’s Forest Hills Drive area, ended in heartbreak when his body was discovered in a nearby pond on Tuesday morning. Authorities and volunteers had worked tirelessly, combing the area for days. The community mourns the loss, with local officials urging parents to remain vigilant and support one another during this difficult time.
Crime and Justice: Major Developments in Local Cases
Randolph County’s legal system has been busy. On September 8, a grand jury indicted Branson Russell for second-degree murder, leading to his arrest the following day. In another high-profile case, two parents were indicted on felony first-degree murder charges related to the 2023 death of their 5-year-old daughter.
Meanwhile, a jury found three Randolph County Sheriff’s Office deputies not liable for violating the Fourth Amendment or using excessive force during a 2019 traffic stop and arrest of Ka’Lah Martin. The verdict has sparked debate among residents about law enforcement practices and accountability.
Growth and Development: Toyota Megasite Brings Jobs
In a major win for the local economy, the Randolph County megasite finally secured a tenant:
Toyota. The automaker’s arrival is expected to create more than 1,700 jobs, marking a turning point for the county’s employment landscape. Local officials are optimistic about the ripple effects, including increased demand for housing, retail, and public services.
Public Health and Safety: New Initiatives and Challenges
Randolph County’s Board of Commissioners approved the creation of six new law enforcement positions to serve the Town of Ramseur, reflecting ongoing efforts to bolster public safety. The Director of Public Health recently reported on child deaths in the county, prompting renewed calls for community support and intervention programs.
As students returned to school, Asheboro Police stepped up enforcement around campuses, aiming to ensure a safe start to the academic year. The county also faces persistent challenges like illegal dumping and homelessness, with officials working to address these issues through new policies and community outreach.
Infrastructure and Housing: Building for the Future
Affordable housing projects are underway at previously undeveloped sites, with one new development set to offer 44 residences, each with 825 square feet of living space. Construction could begin as early as October, alongside renovations at the Health Department. The Luck Comer Lail Center’s Phase 2 completion has made it the largest event center in the county, further expanding Randolph’s capacity for gatherings and celebrations.
Education and Youth: Investing in Tomorrow
Randolph Community College continues to invest in local youth, with more than 200 tenth graders recently exploring career opportunities in automotive technology and collision repair. Eighteen high school students were named to a new class of pre-apprentices, reflecting the county’s commitment to workforce development and education.
What This Means for Randolph County
Randolph County is a community in motion—balancing moments of celebration with sobering challenges. The arrival of Toyota signals economic growth, while tragedies like the loss of Liam King remind residents of the importance of vigilance and compassion. With new housing, expanded law enforcement, and ongoing investment in education, the county is positioning itself for a brighter future.
Key Takeaways:
- The Randolph Country Fair remains a cornerstone of community spirit.
- Economic development is accelerating, led by Toyota’s megasite investment.
- Public safety and health are top priorities amid recent tragedies.
- Infrastructure and housing projects are reshaping the county’s landscape.
- Education initiatives are preparing the next generation for success.
As Randolph County moves forward, its resilience and unity will be tested—but the community’s response to both triumph and tragedy shows a determination to build a safer, stronger, and more vibrant future.
Sources
1. News Flash • Randolph Country Fair 2025
2. News|Randolph Hub
3. Randolph County Courthouse News: September 10 through September 16
4. Recent News Articles - Randolph Community College
5. Hardshell Headlines - Randolph Community College
6. [PDF] Randolph County Crier
