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News

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Accident

Boonsboro Crash

Boonsboro man unharmed after rollover crash

Updated: 34 minutes ago
|
By Leslie Johnson
A Boonsboro man was unharmed after a Friday rollover crash.

Sports

Huntsville vs. Dawgs

Rail Yard Dawgs hold on to force semifinal game 3 against Havoc, 5-4

Updated: 14 hours ago
|
By Leslie Johnson and Brittany Morgan
The Havoc scored four unanswered goals in the second and third periods.

Crime

LPD will increase police presence this weekend.

Lynchburg Police Department to increase downtown presence

Updated: 16 hours ago
|
By Amaiya Howard
Starting April 20th, residents can expect to see more law enforcement in the downtown area.

Development

Roanoke College hosts groundbreaking ceremony on first phase of Science Center construction

Roanoke College to host groundbreaking ceremony for Science Center construction

Updated: 16 hours ago
|
By Leslie Johnson
Roanoke College is hosting a groundbreaking ceremony on the first phase of the Science Center construction on April 20 at 4:00 p.m.

Health

Relay for Life at Virginia Tech raised 150-thousand dollars this year towards helping cancer...

Relay for Life at Virginia Tech raises money for cancer research and patients

Updated: 18 hours ago
|
By Lindsey Cook
Relay for Life at Virginia Tech raised $150,000 this year towards helping cancer patients.

Your Vote Virginia

Candidates lining up for 2025 statewide elections

Candidates lining up support for 2025 statewide races

Updated: 19 hours ago
|
By Joe Dashiell
We won’t elect a new Governor until 2025, but candidates are now lining up support and laying the foundation for a successful campaign.

Community

Don't Count Me Out Basketball Tournament

Martinsville woman starts peer support group to help others dealing with grief

Updated: 20 hours ago
|
By Makayla Shelton
After a tragic loss, she is turning her pain into inspiration to help others going through the same thing.

7@four

Down by Downtown

Freedom First “Down by Downtown Festival” happening through April 21

Updated: 20 hours ago
|
By WDBJ7 Staff
Down by Downtown Live

Crime

This firearm was detected by TSA officers at the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport security...

Man stopped from taking handgun past security at Roanoke airport

Updated: 22 hours ago
|
By Pat Thomas
TSA says the 9mm gun was loaded with 15 bullets, including one in the chamber.

Safety

Missing 88-year-old man found safe

Updated: 23 hours ago
|
By Pat Thomas
Roland Lee Moore has been found safe, according to Virginia State Police.
Local Radar
Local Radar

Crime

Mugshot of Michael Hightower, Botetourt County fugitive captured after fleeing to Mexico

Law enforcement partnerships played “crucial role” in capture of Botetourt fugitive

Updated: 24 hours ago
|
By Leila Mitchell and WDBJ7 Staff
Sheriff Ward spoke about capturing suspect Michael Hightower, Jr., who was wanted for attacking a minor.

Entertainment

ROANOKE CITY VIEW

Lots going on in Roanoke this weekend

Updated: Apr. 19, 2024 at 12:45 PM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
A variety of events is lined up to keep you busy.

Crime

Operation Shockwave leads to prosecution of 47 defendants

Updated: Apr. 19, 2024 at 11:18 AM EDT
|
By WDBJ7 Staff
Operation Shockwave conducted by several law enforcement agencies led to the prosecution of 47 defendants, according to the Lynchburg Police Department.

Accident

Toledo police lights

Woman killed in Fairystone Park Highway crash

Updated: Apr. 19, 2024 at 7:19 AM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
No information has been released about the condition of the driver, who was flown to a hospital.

Health

WDBJ7 talked with United Healthcare about what minority groups can do to protect their health.

National Minority Health Month brings awareness to health disparities

Updated: Apr. 19, 2024 at 6:37 AM EDT
|
By Tynisha Jackson
WDBJ7 talked with United Healthcare about what those groups can do to protect their health.

Fire

Fire burns duplex on Marshall Terrace in Danville

Children and adults displaced by Danville duplex fire

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 10:54 PM EDT
|
By WDBJ7 Staff
Firefighters rescued a pet hamster from an upstairs bedroom.

Good News

Seven veterans from Warm Hearth Village were presented with a Quilt of Valor

“I just felt it was time.” Veterans honored with Quilts of Valor

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 9:35 PM EDT
|
By Amaiya Howard
Seven veterans from Warm Hearth Village were presented with a Quilt of Valor

Business News

The future of skill games could figure in continuing negotiations on the state budget.

Future of skill games could figure in state budget negotiations

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 8:31 PM EDT
|
By Joe Dashiell
Members of the State Senate rejected Governor Youngkin's amendments to the skill games legislation, and lawmakers say the issue could figure in continuing negotiations on the state budget.

History

Historical Marker

Lexington unveils historical markers honoring African American history

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 6:56 PM EDT
|
By Patsy Montesinos
“We needed to give more respect to the history of the black community and make sure it’s recognized and celebrated,” explained Alexander.

College

Youngkin laughs with Hokie bird as he signs NIL bill into law.

Youngkin signs legislation allowing college athletes to be compensated

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 5:51 PM EDT
|
By Annabelle Kinney
Youngkin signs NIL bill with Commonwealth colleges by his side.

Environment

Son of Oak Tree

VIR’s Son of Oak Tree continues to grow and carry legacy of its famous ancestor

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 5:33 PM EDT
|
By Makayla Shelton
The 100-foot-tall, 200-year-old tree became a staple to the track with one of the corners even being named Oak Tree turn.

Business News

Employees at a Bubba's 33 restaurant

New Valley View restaurant looking to hire 200 people

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 5:06 PM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
The restaurant is scheduled to open in mid-May.

Court

Alleghany County man gets prison time for sex offense against minors

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 4:43 PM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
Jon Pieter Vanbreemen was accused of traveling from Covington to White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, to engage in sexual activity with two girls.

Development

Riverfront Park

Lynchburg holds groundbreaking ceremony at Riverfront Park

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 4:13 PM EDT
|
By Leila Mitchell
The celebration comes as construction starts on a new amphitheater.

Good News

911 dispatcher helps deliver baby

911 dispatcher helps couple deliver baby over the phone

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 3:20 PM EDT
|
By Makayla Shelton
In less than three minutes into the call, she heard music to her ears that brought tears to her eyes.

Education

(L-R): Dr. Bernard Bragen, Jr. (MCPS Superintendent), Dr. Lisa Coons (Virginia Superintendent...

Blacksburg teacher named 2025 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 2:54 PM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
“Mrs. Carrier provides hands-on opportunities for students to learn about exciting futures in agriculture and welding.”

Crime

Centra Health

Centra creates initiative to combat human trafficking

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 1:36 PM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
Centra Health has announced an initiative aimed at addressing human trafficking within central and southern Virginia.

Target 7

Gray renews Investigate TV+ for second season

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 1:24 PM EDT
|
By InvestigateTV Staff
“We are excited about our show’s momentum and the phenomenal feedback from our viewers proves that the stories we are telling are truly making an impact,”

Crime

Accused drug traffickers arrested for robbery scheme that ended in murder and setting body on fire

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 12:53 PM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
The grand jury indicted Joseph Richard Walker, 30 of Roanoke, and Garrett Isaac Williams, 21 of Lynchburg.

Health

CDC warns of salmonella outbreaks linked to Trader Joe’s basil

Salmonella outbreak linked to fresh basil sold at Trader Joe’s

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 11:56 AM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
The chain has pulled Infinite Herbs brand organic basil sold in 2.5-ounce clamshell-style containers, and it is no longer available for purchase.

Traffic

The 85-year-old bridge in Roanoke’s Wasena neighborhood is getting demolished in the coming...

Drivers beware: Wasena Bridge closure starts Monday

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 11:23 AM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
The bridge will be closed for two years, to make way for a new bridge.

Education

(L-R) Bailey Divers, Rose Biggio, Matt Neale, Erin Edmonds, Tracy Addison

Roanoke County teachers honored

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 8:51 AM EDT
|
By WDBJ7 Staff
“Purposeful learning happens when content connects to each student’s life."

Education

The program will be added to 4th and 5th grade PE classes in the Fall.

Concord Elementary implementing CYCLE Kids program; fundraising goal reached

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024 at 6:55 AM EDT
|
By Tynisha Jackson
The program will be added to 4th and 5th grade PE classes in the Fall.

Education

Virginia Board of Education has focused on redesigning Virginia’s accreditation system.

VDOE asking for feedback on new school accreditation system

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 10:00 PM EDT
|
By Amaiya Howard
Virginia Board of Education has focused on redesigning Virginia’s accreditation system.

Politics

Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-Virginia) and General Assembly leaders say they are talking and expect...

State Budget talks continue, as Gov. Youngkin calls for special session in May

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 7:13 PM EDT
|
By Joe Dashiell
Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-Virginia) and General Assembly leaders from both parties say they are talking, and expect to reach agreement on a new two-year spending plan.

Crime

There have been 74% less shootings than the first quarter of 2023

Roanoke sees decrease in shootings after record high year of homicides in 2023

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 6:49 PM EDT
|
By Isabella Ledonne
Roanoke has seen a 74% decrease in the number of shootings compared to the first quarter of 2023.

Safety

Hiking Safety

Tips offered for hikers to stay safe on trails

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 5:54 PM EDT
|
By Patsy Montesinos
Over the weekend, Roanoke County Fire and Rescue responded to multiple hiker rescue calls.

Crime

Man arrested for Pulaski County shooting death

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 5:52 PM EDT
|
By WDBJ7 Staff
A man who was found dead in Pulaski County was shot multiple times, according to the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office.

Sports

Huckleberry Park is a prominent spot for sporting events and recreational activities.

Montgomery County working to boost sports tourism in local economy

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 5:27 PM EDT
|
By Annabelle Kinney
Montgomery County getting in the game by boosting sports tourism in the New River Valley.

Education

Bedford County teacher named Region 5 Teacher of the Year

Bedford County teacher named 2025 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 5:15 PM EDT
|
By WDBJ7 Staff
A teacher from Bedford County has been named 2025 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year, according to Virginia Department of Education.

Schools

Lynchburg City Council

Group in Lynchburg expresses excitement after unveiling of plan that could keep two elementary schools open

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 4:50 PM EDT
|
By Leila Mitchell
Save Our Schools tells WDBJ7 they are grateful City Leaders have proposed a plan that would give the elementary schools another shot.

Safety

Blacksburg Town Council and local law enforcement have noticed high incidents of speeding in...

“We want it to be a safe place... That’s really the primary concern for us.” Blacksburg Town Council seeks cameras in school zones to limit speeding

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 4:01 PM EDT
|
By Lindsey Cook
In a recent work session with Blacksburg Town Council, the Vice Mayor said local law enforcement initiated an effort to increase security in school zones after reviewing traffic data.

Safety

Danville Metropolitan Planning Organization seeks input on road safety

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 2:37 PM EDT
|
By WDBJ7 Staff
The West Piedmont Planning District Commission and the Danville Metropolitan Planning Organization are working with residents and safety personnel to create a Safe Streets and Roads for All Action Plan, according to the Danville Metropolitan Planning Organization.

Crime

Michael Hightower mugshot

Man charged with sexual battery in Botetourt County arrested after fleeing to Mexico

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 2:04 PM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
Michael Hightower, Jr. is in custody in Webb County, Texas, awaiting extradition to Virginia.

Crime

Crash at Liberty, Gayle and Burrell streets in NW Roanoke... 4.17.24

Charges pending after crash in front of NW Roanoke school

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 12:12 PM EDT
|
By Pat Thomas
Police believe the driver was headed north on Burrell and crashed into a power pole, then hit at least one unoccupied vehicle.

Early Years

CommUNITY Celebration and Blooming with Hope are two fun events to raise awareness, while...

EARLY YEARS: Children’s Trust hosting April events, including CommUNITY Celebration to raise awareness about child abuse

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 6:01 AM EDT
|
By Kimberly McBroom
Children's Trust encourages you to speak up, if you believe a child is at risk.

Business News

SML Restaurant Week

4th Annual SML Restaurant Week kicks off

Updated: Apr. 17, 2024 at 5:23 AM EDT
|
By Sophia Borrelli
There will be breakfast, lunch and dinner specials at restaurants in and around Smith Mountain Lake.

Schools

Lynchburg Council Budget Meeting

Emotions are high as parents fight to keep two elementary schools open

Updated: Apr. 16, 2024 at 11:20 PM EDT
|
By Amaiya Howard
Emotions were high as the community was not giving up on trying to save Sandusky and T.C. Miller Elementary Schools.

Military

James W. Holzhauer

Abingdon WWII veteran’s remains identified from Pearl Harbor attack

Updated: Apr. 16, 2024 at 7:02 PM EDT
|
By Leslie Johnson
An Abingdon veteran’s remains from World War II were accounted for, finally giving his family full information on his identification after 83 years.

Target 7

Damage from Blue Ridge Rock Festival courtesy Lawrence Towles

Target 7: Blue Ridge Rock Festival attorney shares update on insurance claims and resolutions

Updated: Apr. 16, 2024 at 6:50 PM EDT
|
By Isabella Ledonne
The attorney says they hope a decision on the claim will be made within 30 days, but organizers cannot control the timeline.
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