OHIO VALLEY — November 9, 2026 — A major warehouse fire has prompted an investigation in Marshall County, former West Virginia Governor and U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller has died, and several Ohio Valley communities are dealing with financial and public safety concerns.
Here are the latest headlines from across the region.
Warehouse Fire Destroys Building South of Moundsville
A large fire destroyed the Swierkos Enterprises warehouse south of Moundsville on Sunday, November 8.
Marshall County Emergency Management Director Tom Hart said the building was already fully engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived. The structure later collapsed.
Emergency crews from three counties responded to the blaze, while West Virginia Route 2 remained closed for more than eight hours.
The West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office is expected to investigate the cause of the fire.
Former West Virginia Governor and U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller Dies at 89
Former West Virginia Governor and longtime U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller has died at the age of 89.
Governor Patrick Morrisey announced Rockefeller’s passing, recognizing his decades of service to West Virginia.
Rockefeller first arrived in the state in 1964 as a volunteer working to address poverty. He later served two terms as governor before representing West Virginia in the U.S. Senate for 30 years.
His political career spanned several decades and made him one of the state’s most prominent public figures.
Wellsville Man Faces Multiple Felony Charges Following Alleged Courthouse Escape Attempt
A 21-year-old Wellsville man is facing several charges following an alleged confrontation with law enforcement in September.
Timothy Reaggle was arraigned Friday on two counts of felonious assault on an officer, along with escape, inducing panic and resisting arrest.
Prosecutors allege Reaggle slipped out of his handcuffs, struck a deputy and attempted to flee down a stairway before being stopped with a Taser.
Reaggle pleaded not guilty, and his bond was set at $1 million.
Mountaineer Gas Customers to See Higher Rates in December
Mountaineer Gas customers in West Virginia can expect higher natural gas rates beginning in December.
The West Virginia Public Service Commission approved a settlement expected to generate approximately $17.3 million in additional annual revenue for the utility.
The rate charged for natural gas usage will increase, while the fixed monthly customer charge will remain unchanged.
The change means customers’ bills could rise depending on how much natural gas they use, particularly during the colder months.
Weirton Temporarily Reduces Nonessential Spending
The City of Weirton is taking steps to control spending after sales tax and business and occupation tax revenues came in below expectations.
City Finance Director Diana Smoljanovich said some nonessential expenses are being temporarily postponed as officials review the city’s financial situation.
Mayor Dean Harris indicated that extended budget discussions may be necessary to address the revenue shortfall.
Steubenville Begins Enforcing Vacant Property Registration Requirements
Steubenville officials say the city is now enforcing its vacant property registration program.
Notices have been sent to property owners as officials work to identify properties subject to the requirements.
The city is still determining how many vacant properties should be included in the program.
Ohio Governor-Elect Amy Acton Addresses Divisive Campaign
Ohio Governor-elect Amy Acton says she does not plan to speak with former Republican opponent Vivek Ramaswamy following their closely watched gubernatorial race.
During an interview with CBS News, Acton cited a campaign advertisement involving her estranged mother and emphasized that political leaders should be held accountable for their actions.
Ramaswamy said he left Acton a message congratulating her on her election victory.
Ohio State Highway Patrol Warns Drivers About Increased Deer Activity
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to remain alert as November brings an increased risk of deer-related crashes.
Officials say the combination of peak deer breeding season and the recent time change increases the likelihood of deer appearing near roadways.
Drivers are encouraged to reduce speed, remain attentive and brake rather than swerve when encountering a deer.
Motorcyclists are urged to use additional caution.
West Virginia Specialty License Plates Featuring Monsters Gain Attention
West Virginia’s monster-themed specialty license plates are attracting interest among motorists.
According to a report featured in Monday’s newscast, the state offers nine monster-themed plate designs, and demand has led the Division of Motor Vehicles to order additional plates.
The designs offer drivers another way to personalize their vehicles while highlighting West Virginia’s folklore.
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