News Update 9-6-24

Roanoke Murder Case Mistrial: A Roanoke judge has declared a second mistrial in the case of Brian Salazar, who is accused of killing 65-year-old Paul Wortham in a downtown apartment lobby last summer. Salazar, who claims he acted in self-defense after being threatened, was indicted on second-degree murder charges. The incident resulted in Wortham's death after he sustained a fatal brain injury from falling and hitting his head. NASA and Boeing Starliner Mission: NASA and Boeing are hoping for the successful return of the un-crewed Starliner capsule, which is scheduled to land in New Mexico tonight. The capsule had transported two veteran astronauts to the International Space Station, and its safe return is crucial for future missions. Virginia Trooper Arrested: Virginia State Police Trooper Darren Roberts has been arrested in Myrtle Beach on serious charges, including first-degree criminal sexual conduct, kidnapping, and domestic violence. The incident involved a woman known to him and occurred at a resort on September 2nd. Roberts has been placed on administrative leave without pay. Senator Tim Kaine on Vice President Harris and Immigration: U.S. Senator Tim Kaine commented on Vice President Kamala Harris's changing stance on energy use, including fracking, since the 2020 campaign. Kaine also noted that the Biden administration has deported more people than any administration since George W. Bush's second term and criticized Republicans for blocking bipartisan border security deals. Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears to Run for Governor: Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears has officially filed the necessary documents to run for governor in 2025. She is the first Republican to enter the race, with U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger currently the only Democrat seeking her party's nomination. Virginia Cyclist to Compete in World Championships: Emily Ehrlich of Virginia's Blue Ridge TWENTY24 team has been selected to represent the U.S. at the 2024 UCI Road and Para-Cycling Road World Championships in Zurich, Switzerland. She will compete in both the Individual Time Trial and the Road Race starting on September 21st. Remains of Korean War POW Accounted For: The remains of a Southwest Virginian who died as a prisoner of war during the Korean War have been identified and accounted for, providing closure for his family after decades of uncertainty. Federal Funding for Virginia Clean Energy Projects: Virginia will receive over $3.4 million in federal funding for clean energy initiatives. This includes more than $76,000 for the Town of Blacksburg to enhance bicycle route safety with new markings and symbols on existing bike lanes.