Stewartsville Elementary to close, iGaming concerns grow, assault firearms ban sparks sales surge, and Roanoke events ramp up — WFIR News Express 3/13/26

This is the Friday, March 13, 2026 edition of WFIR News Express — posted shortly after a delayed Thursday update, so you may see two back-to-back episodes in the feed.In today’s update, the Bedford County School Board votes 5–2 to close Stewartsville Elementary at the end of this school year, despite strong community opposition, as officials cite financial pressure and low enrollment. Attorney General Jay Jones issues a statement after a shooting at Old Dominion University in which the threat was neutralized and two people were reportedly wounded.At the General Assembly, experts warn of the potential harm from legalizing online casino gambling, while lawmakers negotiate two major data center bills dealing with siting impacts and public disclosure of water usage. In Roanoke, a gun shop reports a major sales surge as an assault firearms ban awaits the governor’s signature, and Senator Mark Warner highlights the bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act as it clears the U.S. Senate.We also report a Henry County fentanyl and meth arrest involving a suspect already out on bond, a Lynchburg man sentenced to 35 years in prison in the death of his infant daughter, and a look ahead to local spring events — including Dr Pepper Park’s “Green Envy” St. Paddy’s Day party this weekend, the 5 Points Outdoor Concert Series at The Dog Bowl, and a Lent-friendly fish meal returning to Taziki’s Mediterranean Restaurant on Franklin Road in Roanoke.That’s the latest from WFIR News Express.