In this episode, we explore key stories shaping Virginia and the Roanoke region. Governor Glenn Youngkin has unveiled a new AI Task Force aimed at making Virginia a leader in artificial intelligence. The Roanoke mayoral race is heating up, with former Mayor David Bowers running again—this time as a Republican. We also discuss election integrity concerns in Waynesboro, where officials are questioning vote-tallying machines ahead of November's election. Plus, updates on the impact of Hurricane Helene on the tech supply chain and changes to Roanoke's transit plans. Tune in for these stories and more.

In today's episode, we bring you the latest updates from around the region: a woman and child are recovering after a shooting in Northwest Roanoke, while a Danville man was airlifted after being struck by a train. With Election Day just weeks away, hear from a Virginia Tech expert on the final push to energize voters. Plus, we cover Governor Youngkin’s legal battle with the DOJ over voter roll updates, new rules for Bedford County schools, and efforts to keep students safe in Roanoke County. Stay tuned for all the details on WFIR News Express.

The Democratic candidate running in Virginia’s 9th Congressional district says she wants to improve the lives of rural residents. She recently spoke with WFIR's Clark Palmer during a Capitol Conversation.

In today’s episode of WFIR News Express, we delve into several important stories making headlines in our region. First, we cover the Henry County Sheriff’s Office’s recent raid on a home in the Fieldale area, where law enforcement seized a variety of drugs, including meth, cocaine, black tar heroin, and four firearms—one of which was reportedly stolen from Patrick County. The homeowner, 32-year-old Kayla Bowman, faces serious charges including intent to distribute and possession of Schedule 1 and 2 drugs.

Next, we turn to Lynchburg, where a man is facing animal cruelty charges after authorities responded to a call about a deceased dog found in his backyard. The dog’s remains were examined, and 28-year-old Quentin Calhoun-Pope is now being held at the Lynchburg Blue Ridge Regional Jail.

In another major story, Carilion doctor Stephen Morgan shares his heartfelt mission to honor his late wife Ellen, who passed away last year after a long battle with chronic kidney disease. Dr. Morgan is advocating for the establishment of a transplant center in Roanoke, which would help alleviate the burden on patients who currently have to travel two hours or more for life-saving procedures. However, the journey to create a local center has faced opposition, including from UVA Medical Center. We explore the challenges Carilion faces and the growing need for transplant services in our region, which is expected to increase by 35% in the next five years.

Additionally, we highlight Republican Roanoke City Council candidate Nick Hagen’s latest campaign. After an unsuccessful run two years ago, Hagen is back with a renewed focus on community engagement. He shares his views on Roanoke’s political landscape and the significance of having a Republican mayoral candidate, David Bowers, on the ballot.

Tune in for these stories and more, including coverage of Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares and Governor Glenn Youngkin’s visit to Roanoke to commemorate the second anniversary of Cease Fire Virginia, as well as local efforts to limit cellphone use in schools.

Stay informed with WFIR News Express, your source for top local stories and community updates.

Today, we cover the shocking story of a Dublin Police officer who was set on fire during a domestic violence response, updates on the Virginia Trust Index as it remains below pre-pandemic levels, and how the New River Junction community is recovering after damage caused by Hurricane Helene. We also report on a bomb threat at Linkhorne Middle School, a child injured in Blacksburg, new FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers opening in Pulaski, and a special conversation with Three Dog Night’s lead vocalist ahead of their Roanoke concert. Tune in for these stories and more!

Here is the latest news from across the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.

In this edition of the WFIR News Express, we bring you the latest updates from Roanoke and beyond. A manhunt on Patterson Avenue ends with a suspect in custody after reports of shots fired. Governor Youngkin announces Virginia's deployment of National Guard teams and Red Cross volunteers to assist with Hurricane Milton emergency operations in Florida.

We also cover the ongoing frustrations of residents displaced by the Peters Creek Apartment fire, including NFL player Carlos ‘Boogie’ Basham's efforts to support those affected. Additionally, hear about a Floyd man's arrest in connection with the January 6th riot, developments in Virginia's 9th Congressional District race, and recent community events at Tanglewood Mall ahead of the new YMCA's opening. Tune in for these stories and more on today's WFIR News Express!

In today's WFIR News Express, we cover the top stories from Southwest Virginia. A suspect has been charged following a bomb threat at Brookville Middle School, which led to an evacuation. We bring you the latest on murder charges in Roanoke after a fatal shooting on Melrose Avenue. We also provide an update on the Blue Ridge Parkway closure due to Hurricane Helene and the impact on local businesses, as well as a lifted boil water advisory in Montgomery County.

Learn about LewisGale Medical Center's new $1 million SIM lab for medical training, and get ready for the upcoming Spooky Sprint 5K in Roanoke, supporting local youth. Tune in for these stories and more in today's episode!

Here is the latest news from around the Commonwealth of Virginia and Roanoke Valley.

Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.