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Ohio Valley Voters Head to Polls as Major Statewide Races and Local Levies Take Center Stage

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Ohio Valley Voters Head to Polls as Major Statewide Races and Local Levies Take Center Stage

OHIO VALLEY — November 3, 2026 — Election Day is underway across Ohio and West Virginia as voters head to the polls to decide several closely watched statewide races, county leadership positions and local tax levies that could impact communities throughout the region.

From Ohio’s race for governor to county commission contests and school funding proposals, voters have several important decisions to make before polls close Tuesday evening.

One of Ohio’s most closely watched contests is the race for governor between Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Dr. Amy Acton. The two candidates are competing to succeed Gov. Mike DeWine.

Ohio voters are also choosing a U.S. senator, with Republican Jon Husted facing Democrat Sherrod Brown.

While statewide races are attracting significant attention, several local contests could have a direct impact on Ohio Valley communities.

In Belmont County, Republican Dominic DeFelice and Democrat Franklin Shaffer Jr. are competing for the county commission seat currently held by retiring Commissioner Jerry Echemann.

Across the Ohio River in Marshall County, West Virginia, voters will choose between Republican Jim Kudlak, a retired police chief, and Democrat Leigh Ann Scherich, a bank executive, for an open county commission seat.

Marshall County residents will also vote on a school levy that could affect funding for local education.

In West Virginia’s First Senate District, Republican incumbent Laura Wakim Chapman is seeking another term against Democratic challenger Shawn Fluharty.

Several school districts and counties are also asking voters to weigh in on funding measures.

In Jefferson County, Ohio, voters in the Edison Local School District will consider a school levy. A separate school levy is on the ballot for residents of the East Palestine school district in Columbiana County.

Emergency services funding is another issue before voters, with 911 levies appearing on ballots in Jefferson and Guernsey counties.

These local ballot measures could influence how schools and emergency communication services are funded in the coming years.

Polls in both Ohio and West Virginia close at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. Anyone already waiting in line when the polls close will still be allowed to vote.

Residents who are unsure of their assigned polling location can contact their county election office for assistance.

As ballots are counted Tuesday evening, attention will turn to the results of both statewide contests and local races that will help shape the future of Ohio Valley communities.

For continuing Election Day coverage and local election updates, visit RiverNews.org.

River News Headlines: Election Day Across Ohio Valley, New Testimony in Belmont County Murder Trial and Fatal Crash

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River News Headlines: Election Day Across Ohio Valley, New Testimony in Belmont County Murder Trial and Fatal Crash

OHIO VALLEY — November 3, 2026 — Voters across Ohio and West Virginia are heading to the polls today as several important statewide and local races are decided. Meanwhile, new testimony has emerged in the Belmont County double murder trial, a Powhatan Point man has died following a crash, and West Virginia officials are reporting a shortfall in October tax collections.

Election Day Brings Important Statewide and Local Decisions

Residents across Ohio and West Virginia are casting their ballots today in the November 3 general election.

In Ohio, one of the most closely watched races is the contest for governor between Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Dr. Amy Acton.

Ohio voters are also deciding a U.S. Senate race between Republican Jon Husted and Democrat Sherrod Brown.

Several local races and ballot issues are also drawing attention throughout the Ohio Valley.

In Belmont County, Republican Dominic DeFelice faces Democrat Franklin Shaffer Jr. for the county commission seat being vacated by retiring Commissioner Jerry Echemann.

In Marshall County, West Virginia, Republican Jim Kudlak, a retired police chief, is running against Democrat Leigh Ann Scherich, a bank executive, for an open county commission seat.

Marshall County voters will also consider a school levy.

Other local ballot issues include school levies in the Edison Local School District in Jefferson County and the East Palestine school district in Columbiana County, along with 911 levies in Jefferson and Guernsey counties.

In West Virginia’s First Senate District, Republican incumbent Laura Wakim Chapman faces Democratic challenger Shawn Fluharty.

Polls in Ohio and West Virginia close at 7:30 p.m. Voters already in line at closing time will still be allowed to cast their ballots.

Witness Describes Alleged Murder Plot in Belmont County Double Homicide Trial

New testimony Monday in the Belmont County double murder trial of Andrew Isaac Griffin included allegations that Griffin discussed plans to kill Thomas Strussion before the deaths of Strussion and his wife, Angela.

Brett Cole, described as Griffin’s lifelong friend, testified after being transported from Illinois, where he is serving three life sentences for sex crimes.

Cole received immunity from charges connected to the Strussion case in exchange for truthful testimony.

During his testimony, Cole said he helped plan the killing of Thomas Strussion. He described preparations involving a prepaid cellphone and a rain suit secured with tape around the wrists.

Cole also testified that Griffin later told him he had shot the couple and set their home on fire.

According to Cole, Griffin believed Thomas Strussion was attempting to arrange for someone to kill him. Cole described Griffin’s alleged thinking as a situation in which it was “kill or be killed.”

The testimony is part of the prosecution’s case and does not establish that the allegations are proven.

Griffin faces murder and arson charges in connection with the couple’s deaths. He remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Court proceedings were scheduled to resume Tuesday morning at 8:45.

Powhatan Point Man Dies Following Fiery Crash in Belmont County

A 59-year-old Powhatan Point man has died following a single-vehicle crash Monday morning in Belmont County.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, John Makris was driving a pickup truck along State Route 148 when the vehicle left the roadway and caught fire.

Troopers reported that Makris was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

Additional details about the circumstances leading to the accident were not included in the initial report.

West Virginia Reports October Revenue Shortfall

West Virginia’s general revenue collections fell below expectations in October, according to figures released by state officials.

Department of Revenue Secretary Eric Nelson reported that the state collected approximately $380 million during the month, about $7.7 million less than projected.

Despite the monthly shortfall, overall revenue collections remain ahead of estimates.

The state has collected approximately $1.79 billion so far, more than 3% above projections.

The figures indicate that while October revenues were weaker than anticipated, total collections remain above the state’s financial forecast.

Marshall County Animal Shelter Launches Online Adoption System

The Marshall County Animal Shelter is introducing a new digital adoption process designed to make it easier for residents to find and apply for available pets.

The shelter is transitioning to Shelterluv, a management system that allows prospective adopters to submit applications online.

Shelter employees will continue reviewing each application before approving an adoption.

The system also connects with Petfinder, allowing newly entered animals to appear in online listings within approximately 30 minutes.

Shelter officials hope the changes will simplify paperwork, provide more current information about available animals and allow staff to spend more time caring for pets.

Residents interested in adopting are encouraged to review the shelter’s available animals and complete the appropriate application.

For continuing coverage of Election Day, breaking news, court proceedings and community updates across the Ohio Valley, visit RiverNews.org.

Junior Avenue Bridge in Elm Grove to Experience Intermittent Closures for Crosswalk Installation

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Junior Avenue Bridge in Elm Grove to Experience Intermittent Closures for Crosswalk Installation

WHEELING, W.Va. — Motorists traveling through Elm Grove should prepare for temporary traffic disruptions as the Junior Avenue Bridge is scheduled to experience intermittent closures while crews install crosswalks.

According to a traffic advisory, the bridge will be closed periodically between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. to allow crews to complete the work.

The closures are expected to be intermittent rather than continuous, meaning drivers may be able to cross the bridge between periods of construction activity.

The project involves the installation of crosswalks intended to improve pedestrian access in the area.

Motorists are encouraged to allow extra travel time, use alternate routes when necessary and remain alert for workers and changing traffic conditions.

Drivers should also be prepared for possible delays throughout the scheduled work period.

No additional information has been provided regarding the exact duration of each closure.

River News Headlines: Former Mingo Junction Fire Chief Enters Plea, Animal Shelter Overcrowded and Election Day Approaches

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River News Headlines: Former Mingo Junction Fire Chief Enters Plea, Animal Shelter Overcrowded and Election Day Approaches

OHIO VALLEY — November 2, 2026 — Several developments are making headlines across the Ohio Valley, including a court decision involving Mingo Junction’s former fire chief, new charges against a Wellsville couple, concerns over school funding in West Virginia and an urgent need for homes for animals at the Ohio County Animal Shelter.

Meanwhile, voters in Ohio and West Virginia are preparing to head to the polls Tuesday for the November 3 general election.

Former Mingo Junction Fire Chief Pleads No Contest

Former Mingo Junction Fire Chief Brandon Montgomery entered a no-contest plea Friday in Jefferson County court in a case involving allegations made by women he previously supervised.

Jefferson County Prosecutor Jane Hanlin said Montgomery will serve community control, which includes regular court check-ins, monitoring and searches.

Hanlin also indicated that harmful social media posts or other communications directed toward the women involved or witnesses could result in jail time.

Despite the court proceedings, the employment dispute surrounding Montgomery remains unresolved.

Mingo Junction Mayor Judy Ruckman confirmed that Montgomery remains terminated from his position. Village Council President Adam Peeler said disagreements involving his employment and compensation are continuing.

Wellsville Couple Faces Charges After Missing Juvenile Found Beneath Home

A Wellsville couple appeared in court Friday after authorities reported finding a missing juvenile hiding underneath their residence.

Timothy Patrick and Kelly Reed were arraigned on misdemeanor charges of obstructing official business and interference with custody.

According to the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were searching for a juvenile who was wanted on a warrant when they discovered the teenager beneath the home.

Authorities said the juvenile crawled out after deputies called for them.

The charges against Patrick and Reed remain allegations, and both are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

West Virginia Requests Delay in School Funding Lawsuit

West Virginia officials are asking the state’s Supreme Court to postpone proceedings in a lawsuit challenging the state’s public school funding system.

The American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia filed the lawsuit in September, seeking changes to how public education is funded across the state.

State attorneys have requested that the case be delayed until April, arguing that lawmakers are already examining the existing school funding formula.

The West Virginia Legislature is scheduled to convene January 13, giving lawmakers an opportunity to consider potential changes during the upcoming legislative session.

The ACLU is seeking a court order requiring changes to the current funding system.

Ohio County Animal Shelter Seeks Foster Homes and Adopters Following Animal Seizure

The Ohio County Animal Shelter is facing serious overcrowding after approximately 15 additional dogs arrived following an animal seizure.

Shelter staff reported that the main facility has space for 26 dogs and was already housing 24 before the latest arrivals.

With adoptions reportedly declining, the shelter is asking community members to consider fostering or adopting animals to help ease the pressure on its facilities.

Foster homes can provide temporary care while shelter staff work to find permanent placements.

Residents interested in helping are encouraged to contact the Ohio County Animal Shelter for information about available animals and fostering opportunities.

Ohio and West Virginia Voters Prepare for Election Day Tuesday

Voters across Ohio and West Virginia will head to the polls Tuesday, November 3, for the general election.

Polling locations in both states are scheduled to open at 6:30 a.m. and close at 7:30 p.m.

Voters who are already in line when polls close will still be permitted to cast their ballots.

Residents who are uncertain about their assigned polling location are encouraged to contact their county election office before heading out.

The election will determine several important statewide and local races, including Ohio’s next governor.

With Election Day just one day away, election officials are encouraging registered voters to make plans to participate.

For continuing coverage of local news, court developments, community issues and Election Day updates throughout the Ohio Valley, visit RiverNews.org.

Marshall County Animal Shelter Introduces Online Adoption Applications and Updated Pet Listings

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Marshall County Animal Shelter Introduces Online Adoption Applications and Updated Pet Listings

MARSHALL COUNTY — Finding a new furry family member is becoming easier as the Marshall County Animal Shelter introduces a new online system designed to simplify pet adoptions and help residents find available animals.

The shelter announced that it is transitioning to Shelterluv, a digital management platform that allows staff to organize animal records, review adoption applications and manage the adoption process more efficiently.

One of the biggest changes is the ability for prospective pet owners to complete adoption applications online rather than relying entirely on paperwork at the shelter.

Applications will be reviewed by shelter staff, and submitting an application does not guarantee approval or that a particular animal will still be available.

The new system will also provide more timely updates about animals looking for homes.

Through an integration with Petfinder, animals entered into the shelter’s system are expected to appear on Petfinder within approximately 30 minutes. This will allow residents to browse a more current list of adoptable pets.

The shelter emphasized that it will continue using Facebook to share photos, stories and updates about animals in its care. However, residents are encouraged to check its Petfinder listings for the most up-to-date information about available animals.

Those interested in adopting can now submit applications through the following links:

Shelter officials said the transition has been underway for several months and acknowledged that staff members are still becoming familiar with the new system.

The goal is to reduce time spent on administrative tasks while allowing employees to focus more attention on animal care and helping pets find permanent homes.

The shelter thanked the community for its continued patience and support as the new adoption process is introduced.

High-Speed Police Chase From West Virginia Ends Near Byesville, Ohio, After Speeds Reportedly Reach 125 MPH

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High-Speed Police Chase From West Virginia Ends Near Byesville, Ohio, After Speeds Reportedly Reach 125 MPH

GUERNSEY COUNTY, Ohio — A high-speed police pursuit that began in Parkersburg, West Virginia, ended Sunday, November 1, along Interstate 77 near Byesville, Ohio, after the fleeing vehicle reportedly reached speeds of up to 125 mph.

According to reports, officers initially attempted to stop a white Volkswagen SUV displaying Illinois license plates for suspected reckless driving and speeding.

The pursuit began on streets in Parkersburg, where the vehicle reportedly traveled along Market Street, 13th Street and Seventh Street before continuing onto Route 50 and eventually Interstate 77 North.

During the pursuit through Parkersburg, the driver reportedly ran a red light and reached speeds of approximately 93 mph.

By around 4:03 p.m., officers were following the SUV northbound on Interstate 77, where reported speeds increased to 125 mph.

As the pursuit approached the Ohio state line, additional law enforcement agencies were notified, including the Ohio State Highway Patrol and local sheriff’s offices.

The vehicle continued north through southeastern Ohio, passing the Macksburg and Caldwell areas. Officers reportedly attempted to deploy tire-deflation devices near Caldwell, but the initial effort was unsuccessful.

Additional agencies prepared to assist as the pursuit approached Guernsey County. Radio traffic indicated that officers from the Cambridge Police Department and sheriff’s deputies were positioning spike strips along Interstate 77.

The SUV reportedly continued traveling at speeds exceeding 100 mph while passing other vehicles and changing lanes.

Near the Interstate 70 interchange, the driver reportedly traveled westbound on I-70 before returning to I-77 and heading south.

Authorities eventually deployed additional spike strips, which reportedly helped bring the pursuit to an end near mile marker 41 on Interstate 77, close to Byesville.

Radio traffic indicated that officers began checking the identities of the vehicle’s occupants following the stop.

The driver was reportedly identified as a 22-year-old man from Akron, Ohio. Radio reports also suggested that a passenger may have had outstanding warrants, although that information has not been independently confirmed.

The names of those involved, potential charges and whether anyone was injured have not been confirmed in the information available.

The incident involved a pursuit across state lines and assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies.

Witness Testifies About Alleged Confession and Cellphone Evidence in Belmont County Double Murder Trial

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Witness Testifies About Alleged Confession and Cellphone Evidence in Belmont County Double Murder Trial

ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio — New testimony in the Belmont County double murder trial of Andrew Griffin has brought attention to an alleged confession and cellphone evidence connected to the 2021 deaths of Thomas and Angela Strussion.

During testimony on Thursday, October 29, jurors heard from Arthur Cole, a longtime family friend who testified by video about a conversation he said he had with Griffin.

Cole told the court that Griffin allegedly admitted to killing two people while attempting to recover money.

According to Cole, Griffin told him, “I had to go get my money and I killed two people.”

Cole testified that Griffin did not provide further details about the alleged statement.

Jurors also heard testimony from an FBI analyst who presented cellphone evidence examined during the investigation.

According to the analyst, a cellphone purchased with cash in Marion, Illinois, later traveled to Belmont County, arriving at approximately 3:43 a.m. The analyst also testified that Griffin’s personal cellphone remained in Oklahoma during that time.

The testimony introduced additional details for jurors to consider as prosecutors continued presenting their case. However, the cellphone evidence described in court does not independently establish who was carrying the device.

The trial was scheduled to continue Friday, October 30, following Thursday’s testimony.

Griffin faces charges in connection with the deaths of Thomas and Angela Strussion. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

New Report Reveals Troubling History of Amy Acton’s Mother Following Controversial Ohio Campaign Ad

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New Report Reveals Troubling History of Amy Acton’s Mother Following Controversial Ohio Campaign Ad

COLUMBUS, Ohio — October 30, 2026 — New details about the past legal troubles of Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton’s estranged mother are drawing attention following her appearance in a controversial political advertisement released by Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy.

According to reporting by NBC News, Donna Arthur, 82, has a history of animal neglect allegations and court proceedings in Pennsylvania, raising additional questions about the circumstances surrounding her participation in the campaign advertisement.

Court records reviewed by NBC reportedly show that Arthur was found living in her vehicle in State College, Pennsylvania, with as many as 20 cats in 2022. Animal rescue workers described unsanitary conditions inside the vehicle, and prosecutors alleged that the animals were being kept in unsafe conditions.

Arthur was reportedly found guilty in connection with the 2022 animal neglect case. The report also described an allegation that a dead kitten had been discovered in her vehicle in 2021.

During court proceedings, Arthur defended her living situation, explaining that she was experiencing homelessness and maintained that her cats were properly cared for.

Animal rescue worker Lesa King, founder of Hope’s Dream Rescue and Sanctuary, described Arthur’s behavior as erratic during their interactions. King also testified that she had concerns about her personal safety.

The newly reported details come after Arthur appeared in a campaign advertisement criticizing her daughter and urging Ohio voters not to support Acton in the November 3 gubernatorial election.

Acton has publicly criticized the advertisement, saying she believes her mother was exploited for political purposes.

Acton has explained that she has not seen her mother since childhood, when she and her brother were removed from Arthur’s custody following allegations of sexual abuse involving Acton’s stepfather.

Speaking with reporters Tuesday, Acton expressed concern about her mother’s well-being and said she hoped Arthur would receive any assistance she needed.

Ramaswamy has defended the advertisement, maintaining that its purpose was to challenge Acton’s credibility rather than address allegations involving her childhood.

The advertisement has drawn criticism from several prominent Ohio Republicans, including Gov. Mike DeWine and U.S. Sen. Jon Husted. President Donald Trump, however, has defended the campaign’s decision to feature Arthur.

The reports about Arthur’s past court proceedings do not establish her current mental health or her ability to make decisions. No independent medical assessment was included in the information reported.

The controversy continues as Ohio voters prepare to choose their next governor on Tuesday, November 3.

New Ohio Poll Shows Voter Shifts Following Ramaswamy Attack Ad Against Amy Acton

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New Ohio Poll Shows Voter Shifts Following Ramaswamy Attack Ad Against Amy Acton

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A new poll suggests a controversial campaign advertisement featuring Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton’s estranged mother may be influencing some voters in Ohio’s closely watched race for governor.

Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy’s campaign released an advertisement featuring Donna Arthur, Acton’s mother, who accused her daughter of dishonesty and urged Ohioans not to support her.

The advertisement drew criticism from members of both political parties, including Republican Gov. Mike DeWine and former Gov. John Kasich, who called for it to be removed. President Donald Trump defended Ramaswamy’s decision to air the commercial.

According to reporting on a Suffolk University Political Research Center poll, seven respondents said they switched their support from Ramaswamy to Acton following the advertisement, while one reported switching from Acton to Ramaswamy. Those responses suggest a possible negative reaction among some voters, although the small numbers do not establish a broader statewide shift.

The latest polling figures cited in the report place Acton at 48% and Ramaswamy at 44%. Ramaswamy’s unfavorable rating was reported at 54.2%, compared with 52.2% in September, while Acton’s unfavorable rating remained near 41%.

The controversy centers on Acton’s estranged relationship with her mother and allegations of abuse during Acton’s childhood. Acton has previously spoken publicly about her experiences, and the two have reportedly been estranged for decades.

With Ohio’s gubernatorial election scheduled for November 3, the latest survey adds to the attention surrounding a competitive race to succeed Gov. DeWine.

Polling reflects voter opinions at the time respondents were surveyed and does not determine the outcome of an election.

LeMoyne Community Center to Host Halloween Trunk-or-Treat and Costume Contest

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LeMoyne Community Center to Host Halloween Trunk-or-Treat and Costume Contest

WASHINGTON, Pa. — The LeMoyne Community Center is inviting families to celebrate Halloween with a trunk-or-treat event and costume contest on Saturday, October 31.

The event, presented in partnership with Neighbor 2 Neighbor, will offer children and families an opportunity to enjoy Halloween festivities in a community setting.

Trunk-or-treat activities will take place from 11 a.m. to noon, followed by a costume contest from noon to 12:30 p.m.

The celebration will be held at the LeMoyne Community Center, bringing local families together for a morning of costumes, candy and Halloween fun.

The event is part of the center’s ongoing efforts to provide community activities and opportunities for families to connect.

Families planning to attend are encouraged to dress in their favorite Halloween costumes and join the festivities.

The LeMoyne Community Center and Neighbor 2 Neighbor are working together to make the Halloween celebration available to the community.

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