Penelope Lopez
She has a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Rhetorical Studies with a minor in Spanish from Hofstra University on Long Island, New York. Additionally, Penelope also studied communications at the University of Nebrija in Madrid, Spain, and film in Havana, Cuba.
During her senior year of college, she worked at ABC News Live Prime in New York as a booking producer. She secured exclusive interviews with high-profile global leaders, national political figures, White House officials, and social media influencers.
She left New York in 2023 to join KATC-TV3 as an ABC News affiliate reporter in Lafayette, Louisiana. During her time there, she covered local politics and gained an understanding of the importance of building strong relationships with the community, leaders, and officials to cover and report on key issues effectively.
Her goal is to use her storytelling as a means of shedding light on any issues or events impacting local communities. Penelope is passionate about being on the ground, uncovering untold stories that affect marginalized communities.
"I am excited to have the opportunity to report on the communities and culture of Fayetteville."
Penelope is from Long Island, New York. She enjoys trying new local restaurants, going to the movie theaters, and attending concerts.
Penelope's Stories
Campbell University student charged with mass violence threat; students react
Campbell students reacted with surprise and shock after a threat of mass violence on campus, allegedly from a new member of the cheer team.
Fayetteville State University unveils state-of-the-art education facility
Fayetteville State University, the state's second-oldest historically Black college and university, has opened its new, state-of-the-art College of Education building.
More than books: How public libraries became cooling centers in Cumberland County
Cumberland County libraries are helping residents beat the summer heat by serving as free cooling centers across the county.
Fayetteville PD issues warning after 4 fentanyl deaths in three days; resources that can help
The Fayetteville Police Department is sounding the alarm after a recent spike in suspected fentanyl overdoses.
Last minute supply runs: Cumberland County teachers stock up
Cumberland County teachers are joining parents in a last-minute push to gather supplies and prepare classrooms.
NC man charged with killing his mom, niece, stepfather gets no bond, could face death penalty
Court documents show the Moore County suspect has a criminal history and is a registered sex offender.
NC man charged in triple homicide called 911; audio released in family killing in Moore County
According to 911 audio, Demetrius Aggelis himself called authorities after arriving at the home. He was later charged with three counts of murder.
Public Safety vs. Personal Privacy: Flock Cameras debated in Harnett County, across North Carolina
11 Flock cameras monitor busy intersections in Erwin and the town's main entrances, quietly scanning every passing car.
To tackle ongoing opioid crisis, Fayetteville leaders to invest in frontline organizations
According to the North Carolina Division of Public Health, an estimated eight people a day were suspected to have died from a drug overdose in 2025.
NC family of missing teen whose remains found after 5 years get some answers, but not the why
Laniyah Whitted's family last saw her when she was dropped off at Cape Fear High School on Nov. 16, 2021.