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River News Headlines: Belmont County Murder Trial, Proposed Harrison County Landfill, Police Chase and More

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River News Headlines: Belmont County Murder Trial, Proposed Harrison County Landfill, Police Chase and More

OHIO VALLEY — October 27, 2026 — Several major developments are making headlines across the Ohio Valley, including new testimony in a Belmont County double murder trial, opposition to a proposed landfill in Harrison County, a police pursuit through Marshall County and new school safety measures in West Virginia.

Belmont County Double Murder Trial Moves Forward

The double murder trial of Andrew Griffin is continuing in Belmont County following opening statements Monday.

Griffin faces charges including aggravated murder, aggravated burglary and aggravated arson in connection with the 2021 deaths of Thomas and Angela Strussion.

Prosecutors announced that the death penalty specification has been withdrawn following an agreement between the state and defense. According to the prosecutor’s office, the decision was made to avoid further delays after the defense requested a postponement and after consultation with the victims’ families.

Prosecutors say witnesses will present evidence surrounding the couple’s deaths, while the defense has challenged the credibility of individuals expected to testify.

Griffin is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Harrison County Residents Oppose Proposed Landfill

Residents and township officials in Archer Township are raising concerns about a proposed Waste Management landfill along Toot Road in Harrison County.

A crowd gathered at the township hall in Cadiz on Monday to voice opposition to the project.

Opponents argue the landfill could threaten local water resources, negatively affect property values and provide limited economic benefits to the community.

Construction could begin in 2028 or 2029, with the facility potentially opening in 2030.

Township trustees are expected to revisit the issue during a meeting in December.

Police Chase From Benwood to New Martinsville Ends With Arrest

A police pursuit that began in Benwood Sunday afternoon ended in New Martinsville after authorities used a maneuver to stop a fleeing pickup truck.

According to the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, Zachary Pierce allegedly drove into oncoming traffic along Route 2 while attempting to evade law enforcement.

Deputies deployed tire-deflation devices, but the vehicle continued traveling before a Marshall County deputy performed a PIT maneuver to bring the pursuit to an end.

Authorities say Pierce surrendered following the stop. Additional charges are expected.

New Details Emerge in East Liverpool Football Game Stabbing

Court documents have revealed additional allegations surrounding a stabbing during Friday night’s football game in East Liverpool.

A criminal complaint accuses 19-year-old Romelo Harrison of stabbing a 16-year-old victim three times.

The teenager suffered serious injuries and was transported by medical helicopter to a Pittsburgh hospital.

Investigators allege Harrison concealed the knife following the incident. Police are continuing efforts to locate the weapon.

Harrison faces charges of felonious assault and tampering with evidence. The allegations have not been proven in court.

Hancock County Schools to Install Gunfire Detection System

Hancock County Schools is preparing to become the first school district in West Virginia to install an active shooter detection and alert system across all its schools.

The district plans to install approximately 300 audio and infrared sensors throughout its eight school buildings.

The technology is designed to identify gunfire and immediately alert law enforcement and school personnel.

A $600,000 grant will cover the cost of the installation.

EQT Announces $13 Billion Acquisition of Range Resources

Natural gas producer EQT has announced plans to acquire Range Resources in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $13 billion.

The proposed deal would bring together two major companies in the natural gas industry.

The acquisition remains subject to regulatory approval and has not yet been finalized.

Pittsburgh Musician Donnie Iris Remembered Following Death

Tributes are being shared across the region following the reported death of Pittsburgh rock musician Donnie Iris on Monday.

Iris was known for his work with Donnie Iris and the Cruisers, including the hit song Ah! Leah!, and for his earlier success with the Jaggerz on the 1970 song The Rapper.

Longtime friend and radio personality Sean McDowell remembered Iris as both a talented musician and a kind person.

His music and performances made him a recognizable figure throughout the Pittsburgh region and beyond.

River News will continue following these stories and other developments affecting communities throughout the Ohio Valley.

Bellaire and Martins Ferry Set for Playoff Rivalry Showdown Friday Night

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Bellaire and Martins Ferry Set for Playoff Rivalry Showdown Friday Night

MARTINS FERRY, Ohio — One of the Ohio Valley’s biggest high school football rivalries is getting another chapter as the Bellaire Big Reds and Martins Ferry Purple Riders prepare to face off in the Ohio Division V, Region 17 playoffs.

The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled for Friday, October 30, at 7 p.m. at the Dave Bruney Sports Complex in Martins Ferry.

The playoff meeting brings additional excitement to an already intense rivalry between two neighboring communities with a long history of competitive football.

Martins Ferry will have the home-field advantage as the Purple Riders look to advance in the postseason, while Bellaire will be aiming to knock off its rival and continue its own playoff run.

The matchup also puts local bragging rights back on the line, giving fans from both sides another opportunity to rally behind their teams.

With the stakes higher than a regular-season meeting, Friday night’s game is expected to draw plenty of attention from football fans throughout Belmont County and the surrounding Ohio Valley.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Friday at the Dave Bruney Sports Complex, located at 15 Lombard Street in Martins Ferry.

For Bellaire and Martins Ferry, it’s more than another football game — it’s a rivalry showdown with a spot in the next round of the playoffs on the line.

Former St. Clairsville Treatment Center CEO Faces Federal Child Exploitation Charges, Linked to Separate Rape Investigation

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Former St. Clairsville Treatment Center CEO Faces Federal Child Exploitation Charges, Linked to Separate Rape Investigation

ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio — A former CEO of a Belmont County treatment facility for children and teenagers is facing federal charges involving child sexual abuse material and the attempted enticement of a minor. Federal investigators have also identified him as a suspect in a separate kidnapping and rape investigation involving a 14-year-old girl.

Randall J. MacKendrick, 59, of St. Clairsville, appeared in federal court in Columbus on Monday, October 26, following his arrest in West Virginia over the weekend.

MacKendrick previously served as CEO of Fox Run Center for Children and Adolescents in St. Clairsville, a residential treatment facility serving children and teenagers.

Federal investigators allege that MacKendrick began communicating online in June 2026 with an undercover North Ridgeville police officer posing as a 14-year-old girl. Over the following months, he allegedly sent sexually explicit messages, offered gifts and attempted to arrange an in-person meeting.

According to federal charging documents, MacKendrick traveled to several central Ohio locations in July, including Polaris Fashion Place, Tanger Outlets and a Holiday Inn, in an effort to meet the person he believed was a teenager.

In August, authorities arrested MacKendrick after he allegedly traveled to a park in Lorain County for another planned meeting. Investigators reported finding multiple sexual items and three cell phones inside his vehicle.

Following that arrest, Belmont County Sheriff’s Office detectives searched his home and office. A forensic examination of electronic devices allegedly uncovered images and videos containing child sexual abuse material.

MacKendrick was released on bond but arrested again in September after investigators learned he had allegedly been communicating with a 17-year-old former patient of Fox Run. His bond was increased, and he was subsequently released.

The investigation expanded in October when FBI agents identified MacKendrick as a suspect in a separate Perry County case involving the kidnapping and rape of a 14-year-old girl in May 2026.

Federal authorities reported that MacKendrick’s DNA matched evidence recovered from the victim. The Perry County investigation remains ongoing, and no conviction has been established in connection with those allegations.

MacKendrick now faces federal charges of possession of child pornography and attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.

The possession charge carries a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years, while the attempted coercion and enticement charge carries a possible sentence ranging from 10 years to life in prison.

The investigation involves the FBI, North Ridgeville Police Department and Belmont County Sheriff’s Office, with federal prosecutors handling the case in the Southern District of Ohio.

All charges and allegations remain subject to court proceedings. MacKendrick is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Judge Mark Hanni: UNLEASHED Premieres on River Talk and WOHI

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Judge Mark Hanni: UNLEASHED Premieres on River Talk and WOHI

OHIO VALLEY — The River Network is introducing a new radio program to its Ohio Valley lineup as Judge Mark Hanni: UNLEASHED makes its debut Monday, October 26.

The new show, featuring Judge Mark Hanni, will air Mondays and Tuesdays from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on River Talk 100.1, 100.9 and 94.9 FM, along with WOHI 103.9 FM.

Listeners who miss the original broadcasts will have another opportunity to tune in, with encore presentations scheduled for Wednesdays and Thursdays during the same 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. time slot on River Talk and WOHI.

The addition of Judge Mark Hanni: UNLEASHED expands The River Network’s weekday programming and gives listeners across the Ohio Valley another locally featured voice on the air.

The program premieres Monday, October 26, with broadcasts available on River Talk 100.1, 100.9 and 94.9 FM and WOHI 103.9 FM.

Black Sheep Vineyard Announces Retirement After 18 Years

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Black Sheep Vineyard Announces Retirement After 18 Years

Black Sheep Vineyard is preparing to close a chapter in its history as its owners announce plans to retire from the winery business effective January 1, 2027.

In a message shared with customers, Becky reflected on the emotions surrounding the decision as the vineyard approaches its final weeks of operation.

After 18 years in business, the owners are looking back on the relationships and memories created through the winery, including friendships formed with customers and musicians who have performed at the venue.

Becky described the remaining weekends as increasingly bittersweet, with each gathering marking another milestone in the vineyard’s final season.

The owners plan to make the most of their remaining time at the winery, expressing gratitude to everyone who has supported Black Sheep Vineyard throughout its 18-year history.

The announcement marks the approaching end of an era for the business, which has served as a gathering place for customers, friends and local musicians.

Black Sheep Vineyard’s owners are expected to retire from winery operations on January 1, 2027.

River News Headlines: East Liverpool Football Game Stabbing, Marshall County Shooting Ruling, Wheeling Recall Costs and More

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River News Headlines: East Liverpool Football Game Stabbing, Marshall County Shooting Ruling, Wheeling Recall Costs and More

OHIO VALLEY — October 26, 2026 — Several developments are making headlines across the Ohio Valley, including a stabbing at an East Liverpool football game, a prosecutor’s ruling in a deadly Marshall County incident, a house fire in Valley Grove and questions surrounding the cost of recall elections in Wheeling.

Teen Injured in Stabbing at East Liverpool Football Game

East Liverpool police have charged a 19-year-old man following a stabbing during Friday night’s football game.

Romelo Harrison faces charges of felonious assault and tampering in connection with the incident. Police said the juvenile victim approached officers after being attacked inside a stadium restroom.

The victim suffered serious injuries and was transported by medical helicopter to UPMC Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh. Counselors are expected to be available Monday for students affected by the incident.

Marshall County Prosecutor Rules Deputy’s Use of Force Justified

Marshall County Prosecutor Joe Canestraro has determined that a deputy was justified in using deadly force during an October 1 incident that left two residents dead.

According to investigators, Cyle Fabrizio killed David and Monica Will at their home before holding their 16-year-old daughter at gunpoint.

Deputy Christopher Minder fired one round, ending the threat. The couple’s two children survived.

The determination was announced Friday following an investigation by West Virginia State Police. The Marshall County sheriff acknowledged that the findings do not diminish the loss suffered by the Will family.

Valley Grove Home Heavily Damaged by Fire

Emergency crews responded to a house fire along Farmers Road in Valley Grove late Sunday afternoon.

The residence sustained significant damage, and the cause remains under investigation.

In a separate incident, Moundsville police reported that a vehicle pursuit ended in New Martinsville with a suspect taken into custody. Authorities have not released details about what prompted the pursuit or whether anyone was injured.

Wheeling Recall Elections Could Cost Taxpayers Thousands

Wheeling officials are outlining the potential financial impact of holding special elections to recall city leaders.

Under the city’s charter, a recall petition targeting the mayor or a council member must receive signatures from at least 10% of eligible voters.

City administrators estimate that each special recall election would cost approximately $52,000. If separate recall elections were held for all seven council members, the combined expense could reach $364,000.

Ohio County election officials confirmed that the city would be responsible for the election costs.

Ohio Ends Non-Domiciled Commercial Driver’s License Program

Ohio Registrar Charlie Norman has announced the end of the state’s non-domiciled commercial driver’s license program following changes to federal regulations.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration implemented stricter requirements in March.

According to federal officials, 17 fatal truck crashes in 2025, resulting in 30 deaths, involved drivers who would no longer qualify under the updated rules.

Ohio’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles has not issued new licenses in this category over the past year. Approximately 3,000 existing license holders will receive 30 days before their licenses are downgraded.

Ohio State Highway Patrol Welcomes Largest Cadet Class in Nearly a Decade

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is preparing to welcome recruits for its 181st Cadet Class.

Recruits are gathering Monday at district headquarters, including the Cambridge Patrol Post, to sign letters of intent alongside family and friends.

The Patrol says the incoming group is its largest cadet class in nearly 10 years. Training is scheduled to begin Tuesday at the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy in Columbus.

Marshall County Republicans Hold Annual Community Picnic

The Marshall County Republican Party hosted its annual picnic Sunday at Riverfront Park in Moundsville.

The event featured food, live music and raffles, with West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner attending as the featured guest.

Organizers described the gathering as an opportunity for community fellowship and voter engagement ahead of the November election.

River News will continue following these stories and other developments affecting communities throughout the Ohio Valley.

Multiple Fire Departments Respond to House Fire in Valley Grove

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Multiple Fire Departments Respond to House Fire in Valley Grove

VALLEY GROVE, W.Va. — Multiple fire departments responded to a house fire Sunday evening, October 25, along Farmers Hill Drive off Valley Grove Road in Ohio County.

According to emergency dispatch information shared by Ohio Valley Sirens and Shenanigans, the structure fire was reported at approximately 5:07 p.m.

Initial reports indicated that everyone inside the residence, including a dog, had safely evacuated. The Ohio County Sheriff’s Department was reportedly first on the scene and described the home as fully engulfed in flames.

Emergency crews also received reports of ammunition going off inside the burning residence, creating additional concerns for firefighters.

Fire departments from Triadelphia, Valley Grove, Ohio County and West Alexander were initially dispatched. Additional assistance was requested from Stone Church, followed by a tanker task force involving Mozart, Stone Church and West Liberty.

Valley Grove Road was closed between Route 40 and West Alexander Road while crews worked at the scene. Firefighters coordinated water tanker operations, with a water fill site established along Route 40.

By approximately 6:03 p.m., the fire was reported extinguished, with crews continuing to address remaining hot spots. American Electric Power personnel arrived at the scene, and firefighters began cleanup operations shortly afterward.

Emergency units started clearing the scene around 6:55 p.m., with all units reportedly cleared by 7:30 p.m.

The extent of the damage and the cause of the fire have not been officially confirmed. No injuries were reported in the information provided.

Steubenville Secures No. 1 Seed in Division III, Region 11 Football Playoffs

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Steubenville Secures No. 1 Seed in Division III, Region 11 Football Playoffs

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio — Steubenville Big Red has secured the No. 1 seed in the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s Division III, Region 11 football playoffs, earning a first-round bye and home-field advantage through the regional semifinals.

Big Red finished the regular season with an 8-2 record and topped the final Harbin computer rankings with 32.2720 points, ahead of undefeated Newark, which finished second with 28.8500 points.

Columbus East claimed the third seed, followed by Athens in fourth, Dover in fifth, Sheridan in sixth, Granville in seventh and Linden McKinley in eighth.

Under the playoff format, the top four teams receive first-round byes, while teams seeded fifth through eighth host opening-round games on Friday, October 30.

Steubenville will begin its postseason run on Friday, November 6, when Big Red hosts the winner of the first-round matchup between No. 8 Linden McKinley and No. 9 Jackson.

Other opening-round matchups include Dover against Columbus South, Sheridan against Tri-Valley, and Granville against Jonathan Alder.

The No. 1 ranking puts Steubenville in a favorable position as the team looks to make another deep postseason run.

Big Red will now have an additional week to prepare before beginning its playoff schedule on November 6.

Accidents Cause Traffic Backups Along I-79 North Near Washington and Canonsburg

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Accidents Cause Traffic Backups Along I-79 North Near Washington and Canonsburg

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Pa. — Motorists traveling northbound on Interstate 79 are being advised of traffic delays following reports of two separate accidents in Washington County on Monday, October 26.

According to traffic updates shared by Ohio Valley Sirens and Shenanigans, congestion was reported near the Interstate 70/79 split in Washington and near Exit 45 in the Canonsburg area.

One of the accidents reportedly involved a vehicle striking a deer. Details surrounding the second accident have not been released.

Both incidents were reported to be causing backups along the northbound lanes of I-79.

Drivers traveling through the affected areas are encouraged to use caution, reduce their speed and allow additional travel time.

The extent of any injuries and the estimated time for traffic to return to normal have not been confirmed.

New Ohio Polls Show Democrats Leading in Governor and U.S. Senate Races

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New Ohio Polls Show Democrats Leading in Governor and U.S. Senate Races

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Two new polls show Democratic candidates Amy Acton and Sherrod Brown leading their Republican opponents in Ohio’s races for governor and U.S. Senate ahead of the November 3 election.

According to polling results reported by NBC4, both the Fox News poll and a Cook Political Report survey found Democrats holding leads, although the margins vary between the two surveys.

In the U.S. Senate race, former Senator Sherrod Brown leads Republican incumbent Jon Husted 52% to 47% among likely voters in the Fox News poll. The Cook Political Report survey shows Brown ahead 49% to 43%.

The governor’s race appears closer. Fox News found Acton leading Republican Vivek Ramaswamy 50% to 48%, while Cook’s survey placed Acton ahead 49% to 44%.

The Fox News poll surveyed 2,005 registered Ohio voters between October 15 and October 19, including 1,592 likely voters. The likely-voter results have a margin of sampling error of plus or minus two percentage points. Cook’s survey included 959 likely voters interviewed October 9 through October 13.

Economic concerns remain a significant issue for voters. In the Fox News survey, 46% of likely voters said their family’s financial situation had worsened over the past two years, compared with 19% who reported improvement.

The polling also revealed differences between male and female voters. Women favored Brown by 14 percentage points and Acton by 10 points, while men leaned toward Husted and Ramaswamy.

President Donald Trump received a 43% approval rating among likely voters in the Fox News poll, with 57% disapproving of his job performance.

Ohio’s Senate race has also attracted substantial political spending. According to advertising analytics company AdImpact, approximately $422.6 million has been spent or reserved for advertising in the contest.

Both surveys were conducted before the release of Ramaswamy’s controversial campaign advertisement featuring Acton’s estranged mother, meaning the polling does not reflect any potential impact from that controversy.

While the results suggest competitive races with Democratic leads, the polls represent voter preferences at the time they were conducted and do not predict the final election outcome.

Ohio voters will decide both races on Tuesday, November 3.

Source: NBC4 WCMH-TV — Thomas Cobb, “Two Ohio polls put Amy Acton, Sherrod Brown ahead in Ohio’s Senate, governor’s races,” published October 23, 2026. Polling data from Fox News and the Cook Political Report.

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