On this Friday edition of the WFIR News Express:
🚓 A solemn homecoming for Officer Jeremy Hall, as a motorcade returns the fallen River North correctional officer to his family — and VADOC leaders call for better pay and protections after last week’s deadly inmate attack.
🏛️ A West Virginia lawmaker renews his push to let several Southwest Virginia localities jump state lines, reviving the “Best Virginia” proposal that once stalled in Charleston.
🪖 Bedford prepares to dedicate its new Vietnam Veterans Memorial, honoring 14 fallen soldiers and recognizing those who returned home.
⚖️ A Lynchburg woman receives a 27-year sentence — most of it suspended — after knife attacks on police and CPS workers in 2023.
🔐 Senator Mark Warner warns that national security vulnerabilities are growing, blaming deep cuts and personnel upheaval under the Trump administration.
🎭 Actor Michael Keaton jumps into Virginia’s 6th District race, endorsing Democratic challenger Beth Macy after her strong fundraising launch.
🏢 Martinsville weighs whether to repair or rebuild its aging City Hall, after an assessment finds fixes may cost more than the building is worth.
🚬 A new cigar lounge opens in downtown Roanoke, with its owner aiming to create a community hub steps from Center in the Square.
🎼 The Roanoke Symphony Orchestra explores forming an inclusive adult ensemble — and wants local musicians to weigh in via a new survey.
🎓 Averett University announces a major tuition reset for 2026, cutting its sticker price to improve clarity and access.
🔬 Virginia Tech surpasses its research spending goal but braces for continued uncertainty as federal cuts deepen.

🎧 WFIR News Express — your fast, dependable look at what matters across the Roanoke Valley and Southwest Virginia.