Virginia Assault Weapons Ban Faces Court Challenge, Two Shot Dead in Pittsylvania Home, Botetourt Courthouse Tops Off | Roanoke Valley's Morning News – June 29, 2026

Gun control advocates say Virginia's assault weapons ban — set to take effect Wednesday — is under attack in court. A ruling from a federal judge is preventing Virginia State Police from enforcing the ban while Franklin County Republican Senator Bill Stanley's case in Washington County moves forward, seeking to eliminate it entirely. Richmond Sheriff Antwanette Irving says the gun ban and related control measures are essential to reduce gun violence. Attorney General Jay Jones plans to appeal the ruling.The Flock gunshot detection controversy is becoming a factor in this fall's city council race. Of nine candidates running for three open seats, only two support keeping the technology: incumbent Vivian Sanchez Jones and independent David Bowers. The rest oppose it or want a pause over privacy concerns.Two people have been identified after being found shot inside a Pittsylvania County home over the weekend. The victims are 34-year-old Cody Jonathan James Saltsman and 35-year-old Caitlin Stinard Unterman. Investigators have not said whether the vehicle crash into the home and the shooting are connected.Botetourt County celebrated a major milestone with a topping-off ceremony for its new $37 million circuit courthouse in Fincastle — replacing a building from 1975. Construction is expected to wrap by fall 2027. The 38th annual Salem Fair opens Wednesday with new rides, shows, and special programming honoring America's 250th birthday. Floyd Fest ticket prices increase at midnight — My Morning Jacket headlines the July 22–26 festival.In sports: Salem beat Myrtle Beach 7-6 Sunday with a walk-off in the ninth. Wimbledon gets underway today, and the World Cup knockout round continues.WFIR News/Talk 960-AM & FM-107.3 | Roanoke, Virginia