Gang-Related Shooting Update, ACA Subsidy Standoff & Botetourt Rate Hike Fight

On today’s WFIR News Express for Wednesday, November 26, 2025:• Court documents confirm a downtown Roanoke shooting was gang-related, with five arrests and new insight into gang activity trends from Roanoke Police.• Former Congressman Denver Riggleman raises red flags about a U.S.–Saudi arms deal, questioning national-security risks and what the administration stands to gain.• A new White House proposal to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies sparks divisions among Republicans, even as hundreds of thousands of Virginians brace for major premium hikes when enhanced subsidies expire at year’s end.• Roanoke College’s latest consumer survey shows Virginians balancing optimism and caution heading into the holidays amid inflation pressures.• The Rescue Mission readies a massive community feast right after tomorrow’s Drumstick Dash, expecting more than 400 people for Thanksgiving meals.• Brown Friday approaches—local plumbers warn about post-holiday grease clogs and explain why the day after Thanksgiving is their busiest of the year.• Aqua Virginia seeks a 26% rate increase, including a 33% hike for Botetourt County customers, prompting pushback from county leaders.• Botetourt officials review new proposals for the Orchard Lake Dam, after residents asked for alternatives to breaching.• Rep. Morgan Griffith discusses what may be revealed under the newly signed Epstein Files Transparency Act, requiring DOJ release within 30 days.• Blacksburg Police begin targeted deer-culling operations for public-safety reasons as collisions rise.• Roanoke’s Angel Tree program gets a boost from social media, but organizers remind donors that small gifts still make big impacts.• Roanoke’s housing market cools slightly, with higher inventory and policy discussions on affordability—even as home prices remain elevated.🎧 Your essential, fast, local news update heading into Thanksgiving in the Roanoke Valley.