The Carolina Inn is reportedly haunted by its former long-term guest, Dr. William Jacocks (also referred to as Dr. Jay Cox), who died at the inn in the 1960s and now plays harmless pranks and causes unexplained phenomena, such as moving furniture, flickering lights, disarranged objects, and guests being locked out of their rooms, particularly his former room, 256. Reports of his ghost include the scent of flowers, "whizzing" sounds, and even a "finely-attired, portly" man wandering the halls. Dr. William Jacocks (or Jay Cox): The most famous ghostly resident is a jovial former guest who reportedly never left after his death. The ghost is often associated with Room 256, his former residence. Reported paranormal events: Floral scents. Unexplained sounds, including a "whizzing" noise. Moving objects, like bath mats and furniture. Flickering lights. Locked doors, with guests being locked out of their rooms. An appearance: of a "finely-attired, portly" man in the hallways. During a renovation, Room 256 was divided into smaller rooms, partly to diminish the hauntings. Even with electronic key cards, reports of guests being locked out persist, suggesting Dr. Jacocks is still searching for an available room.