Burke County Man Charged With Operating A Mower While Impaired

38-year-old Zachary Norton of Valdese was arrested Wednesday by Morganton Public Safety Officers. He’s charged with driving while impaired, no liability insurance, failure to display registration plate, and equipment violation.

Shortly before 9 pm, Wednesday, Morganton Public Safety Officers saw a lawnmower being operated on East Union Street near East Fleming Drive following reports of reckless driving on U.S. 70. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the lawnmower, which was being operated by Zachary Norton. It was determined that Norton was operating the vehicle while under the influence of an impairing substance. He was subsequently arrested and charged.

A records check revealed that this incident constitutes Norton’s second DWI offense since July of 2024. He was scheduled to appear in court Thursday.

Story: Rob Eastwood-WHKY