Administrator Charged with Assault, Chemicals in the New River, Local Controversies & More

In today’s WFIR News Express, we’re covering a wide range of important stories across our region. Pulaski County Administrator Jonathon Sweet is facing Class 1 misdemeanor assault and battery charges stemming from an incident in September. In the New River Valley, concerns are rising after potentially hazardous chemicals were released into the New River during Hurricane Helene, with 13 containers still missing. Salem residents are continuing to protest a controversial development proposal on the HopeTree Family Services property, while Lynchburg authorities are investigating the tragic death of a 4-month-old child, ruled a homicide. Elsewhere, a local Baptist preacher in Lynchburg is accused of sexual assault, and Roanoke’s recent firearms case could have major implications for gun rights in public spaces. Plus, Salem celebrates its growing reputation as America’s Championship City, and Carilion Children's Tanglewood introduces a new, furry team member to help comfort patients. All this and more on today’s episode of WFIR News Express.