South Roanoke Murder, Martinsville Drug Bust, Ferrum College Scholarship & More

WFIR News Express brings you the latest headlines from Roanoke, Vinton, Salem, Franklin County, Martinsville, and beyond. A South Roanoke neighborhood is shaken after an 80-year-old woman was found murdered in her apartment, with a suspect now in custody. In Martinsville, police seized over a kilo of cocaine, firearms, and cash in a major drug bust—one suspect is still at large.In Franklin County, Ferrum College announces a $100,000 Resident Impact Scholarship to help local students afford college. Meanwhile, the Virginia House of Delegates passes ranked-choice voting legislation, potentially changing how local elections are decided.At the national level, Senator Mark Warner calls for action on the bird flu outbreak, while Senator Tim Kaine presses Trump’s Labor Secretary nominee on federal job cuts, particularly affecting military veterans in Virginia.For those struggling with winter fatigue, UVA doctors explain how sunlight can boost energy and mood. And for food lovers, Vinton’s Winter Restaurant Week kicks off Sunday, featuring local favorites like Smiley’s Grill and Pollard 107 South.Looking ahead, the Roanoke Valley’s first-ever LEGO convention is coming to the Salem Civic Center this September, benefiting Creations for Charity.Stay informed with the latest updates from across the Roanoke Valley and Southwest Virginia with WFIR News Express.