Web Staff
The City of Salem is trying to get a jump on things when it comes to the pending winter weather and is asking residents to help clear the roads. Velvet Hall has more…
CITY OF SALEM SNOW SAFETY TIPS AS THE STORM APPROACHES
The City of Roanoke is well underway in preparing for the impending snowstorm and transportation officials have recommendations ahead of the first snowflake. Velvet Hall has details:
City reminds residents about snow removal process
Governor McAuliffe has declared a state of emergency today in advance of an expected snowstorm that is likely to be widespread and disruptive. The declaration authorizes state agencies to be ready to assist local governments in responding to the storm. In declaring a state of emergency, the governor authorizes state agencies to identify and position resources for quick response anywhere they are needed in Virginia.
(Continue reading for the full emergency declaration.)
From Virginia Tech Police: Virginia Tech Police has arrested and charged a university employee on eight counts of larceny.
Floyd Raye Hoston, age 23, of Pembroke, Va., was arrested today and charged with seven counts of petit larceny and one count of grand larceny. Hoston worked in housekeeping at Virginia Tech. He was arrested without incident and was transported to the Montgomery County Jail where he is currently being held without bond.
The arrest was the result of an investigation by the department’s investigative division. The larcenies, which involved money ranging from $25 to more than $300, occurred in Owens and War Memorial halls beginning in September 2013.
“Our investigation, which led to today’s arrest, is a message that we take such behavior seriously and will bring those responsible to justice,” said Maj. Kevin Foust, interim chief of police. “This case is also a reminder to the Virginia Tech community about the importance of securing your personal items.”
FROM ROANOKE CITY POLICE: We need your help with extra sets of eyes in your neighborhoods and communities here in Roanoke. We are experiencing an increase in copper thefts, particularly from vacant homes and homes listed for sale. Thieves have been targeting copper wiring and pipes from inside the homes as well as the copper components from inside external heating and air conditioning units at primarily vacant homes. Some businesses and other structures have been targeted too. Property owners and managers can help us by keeping regular checks on their properties. Neighbors can help by keeping an eye out on any vacant properties, or homes for sale, in their neighborhoods. If you see anything suspicious call 911 immediately. Your extra set of eyes and quick action might help us catch a thief! If you have any information on possible suspects in these thefts, please call the Roanoke Valley Crime Line at 540-344-8500.
From Roanoke County Police: Today around noon an unkown individuals walked into Union First Market Bank in the 3600 block of Electric Rd. This person was wearing a mask and gloves. He approached the teller and displayed a handgun demanding money. After receiving some money the person fled on foot. He was last seen running toward Chaparral Dr. The robber is described as approximately 6 feet 3 inches and lanky. The clothing worn include a tan canvas jacket and blue jeans. No one was injured. Two photos of the suspect are attached. One photo is of the subject in the bank and the other is the suspect’s approach to the bank. Anyone with information as to the identity of the robber is asked to call the Roanoke County Police at 562-3265.
Courtesy:
Paul Klockenbrink
Bird watchers are flocking to Rockingham County to get a glimpse of a visiting Snowy Owl, which is a rare sight this far south. Roanoke lawyer Paul Klockenbrink found and photographed the bird in a corn field. He says the yellow-eyed bird with a five-foot wingspan has been in the area since early December and will probably stay there for a few more weeks. Continue reading
From Governor McDonnell’s office:
RICHMOND – Governor Terry McAuliffe announced today that Kilgour Industries Ltd, a United Kingdom-based supplier of aircraft airframe and engine machined products will invest $27.3 million in its first U.S. operation in Henry County and create 155 new jobs. Kilgour specializes in computerized numerical control (CNC) machining, wet chemical surface treatments and sub-assemblies of aerospace components. Virginia successfully competed against Florida, Michigan, North Carolina and South Carolina for the project.
(Continue reading for the rest of the announcement)
Dean Selbe (Vinton Police photo)
FROM VINTON POLICE: In regard to the homicide at 305 Cedar Ave. in the Town of Vinton, the Vinton Police Department continues to investigate this incident. We can confirm that the victim’s head was found severed and that the medical examiner is continuing their investigation into the cause of Ms. Selbe’s death. Due to the ongoing criminal investigation and the pending judicial process, there will be no additional information released as to any other specifics regarding this case. Based on interviews conducted and evidence collected which led to the arrest of Dean Selbe, we have determined that the victim in this case was the specific target of the crime.