Blacksburg principal arrest, Botetourt County Google data center moves forward, and Iran war tensions escalate — WFIR News Express 3/27/26

On this Friday, March 27, 2026 edition of WFIR News Express, a Blacksburg elementary school principal has been placed on leave following his arrest on solicitation-related charges, as Montgomery County Public Schools continues its investigation. In Botetourt County, officials are moving forward with plans for a massive Google data center campus in the Greenfield area, a նախագ project expected to bring tens of millions in annual revenue while raising questions about water usage and infrastructure.We also have new developments in multiple local criminal cases, including details surrounding a deadly shooting in northwest Roanoke tied to an apparent drug-related meeting, and an arrest in Franklin County where a man is charged with the murder of his missing brother. Meanwhile, Roanoke city leaders are working to resolve zoning issues involving The Least of These Ministry as it continues serving the homeless population.Community activism is also in focus, with Roanoke Indivisible organizing its “No Kings 3” rally at Elmwood Park as part of a nationwide weekend of protests addressing federal policies, including immigration enforcement and the ongoing conflict in Iran. At the national level, tensions continue to rise in the Middle East, as Iran rejects calls to pause the war and the U.S. increases troop deployments, drawing concern from lawmakers about long-term consequences.Back in Virginia, a newly created Chief Energy Officer position aims to tackle rising energy costs, with a focus on renewable energy and grid efficiency. In Blacksburg, a new façade improvement program is helping local businesses enhance their storefronts through matching grants.That’s the latest from WFIR News Express — follow the feed so you don’t miss the next update.