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
Cumberland County teacher weighs in on statewide rally: 'We just want to be heard'
More than 800 Cumberland County teachers and staff are expected to join a statewide walkout in Raleigh on Friday.
Goodyear in discussions to close Cumberland County plant after more than 50 years
The closure of the more than 2.2 million-square-foot plant would leave more than 2,000 people without jobs.
Fayetteville leaders want public input on ways to curb accidents through the 'Safe Streets' plan
City leaders hope the 'Safe Streets' plan will help curb the persistent problem of car accidents.
Woman accused of killing, dismembering Green Beret husband in NC denied bond reduction
Shana Cloud will remain in jail with no bond.
Fort Bragg's baseball league helps veterans and service members cope amid ongoing war
With deployments looming and the future unclear, the Bragg Baseball League has become a lifeline for those in uniform.
Three charged, including 15-year-old friend of the victim, in Hope Mills teen shooting
Hope Mills police say a teen who was a friend of 16-year-old who was killed is facing charges in the investigation.
Woman found dead inside house in Fayetteville; man in custody
Police say they found a 63-year-old woman stabbed to death inside a home in Fayetteville.
Volunteers at food bank pack 30K meals to fight food insecurity in the Sandhills
From filling 5,000 boxes to sharing laughter, volunteers worked through the morning with a clear mission, to help fight hunger.
Family seeks answers after Khamari Harrison killed in Hope Mills: 'The gun violence. It has to stop'
"Whoever is responsible for this, and if it was a mistake, just come out and say it was a mistake."
Fort Bragg soldiers learn in real time on counter-drone system
The training is part of the Department of War's efforts to improve defenses against aerial threats.