Local journalism and investigative reporting on Radford City government, development, and public interest issues.
Part two of a two-part Cardinal News investigation: Radford was warned in 2017 that it could not go on. The state arrived nine years later to say the same thing — how audits, budgets, and a $4 million annual gap went unaddressed until the city's fiscal distress score hit 88.33.
Part one of a two-part Cardinal News investigation by Tommy Turner into how a single factory — the New River Foundry on West Main Street — quietly became the thing holding up Radford's budget, and what happened when it closed for good in 2013.
Mayor David Horton announced on May 1 that he will not seek reelection this November after eight years in office. Vice Mayor Seth Gillespie has announced his candidacy for the mayoral seat.
City Council approved the $80.1 million FY2026-2027 budget, including a 2-cent real estate tax increase and 5% electric rate hike — the third consecutive year of increases as Radford addresses its "fiscal distress" designation.
Radford City Council voted 4-1 to approve a budget amendment allocating $3.2 million for Commerce Park infrastructure, a key step in the city's economic development strategy.
The Virginia Auditor of Public Accounts officially placed Radford in "fiscal distress" status in March 2026, making the city eligible for state expertise and support as it works to stabilize its finances.
The Radford City Council voted 3–2 on February 23 to designate Radford a Second Amendment Sanctuary City. Wohlford, Gillespie, and Artrip voted in favor; Mayor Horton and Foster voted against.
A juvenile suspect was arrested and charged with second-degree murder after a fatal shooting in the 1100 block of Downey Street on September 13, 2025. Police Chief Jerry Holdaway cited a troubling spike in gun-related crimes.
An altercation between four individuals on East Main Street near Radford University erupted into gunfire on April 17, 2025, leaving two people wounded. Four suspects have been arrested on charges including aggravated malicious wounding and armed robbery.
Radford celebrated Independence Day on July 3 at Bisset Park with live music, a patriotic dog show, food trucks, games, and fireworks as part of America's 250th Celebration.
Christiansburg's Frog Pond outdoor pool offers community relief from extreme summer heat as public pools remain popular essential spaces.
Three Democrats—Douglas Crockett, Adam Murphy, and Joy Powers—are competing in a primary for the chance to face Rep. Morgan Griffith in November.
High Roller Provisions, a new farm-to-market store, has opened in downtown Christiansburg, owned by Hazel Rakes who prioritizes food transparency.
Community members can transcribe original Civil War-era letters at a public event on July 11 focused on the Wharton and Radford Papers.
Weekly Southwest Virginia Swim League competition held at Shawnee Swim Club in Radford.
Five candidates will compete for two Radford City Council seats in the Nov. 3, 2026 election, while Vice Mayor Seth Gillespie runs unopposed for Mayor.
Jon Amos Altizer, 87, of Riner, passed away on June 26, 2026, at the home where he was born, surrounded by family.
Steven Rickey McKelvy, 72, known as 'Spook,' passed away July 1, 2026, in Roanoke following a brief illness.
Former Radford softball coach Kevin Fagan hired as Liberty's associate head coach after leading Highlanders to 2025 Big South title.
Radford University and Virginia Western Community College are partnering on a transfer pathway preparing students for careers in data, technology, business, and AI.
Radford Photo Club's June challenge winners announced: Joseph Pack won Reflections theme with Pandapas Pond shot, Allison Franklin won open theme with Beagle Ridge Herb Farm photo.
Fireworks by Grucci, a family-run fireworks company since 1850, has a manufacturing and operations connection to the New River Valley area near Radford, Virginia.
Montgomery County School Board has overspent its FY2025-26 budget by over $4 million, creating a deficit that will impact school employees in the final weeks of the fiscal year.
Remembering Radford University student Gina Hall, who disappeared June 28, 1980. Stephen Epperly was convicted of her murder, though her body has never been found.
Anna Elizabeth Farley, 80, of Blacksburg passed away June 26, 2026, surrounded by her family.
Frederick Sale Smith, 80, of Radford, passed away on June 23, 2026. He was the owner of Misty Hollow Farms and a member of New Hope Church of God.
Dr. Ruth Shannon Newton Fisher, a Virginia-born educator and nurse, has passed away after a life dedicated to learning, community, and family.
Radford City Schools now requires volunteer coaches to undergo full background checks including fingerprints, with costs covered by the district.
Radford University Board of Visitors unanimously elected Dale S. Ardizzone as rector and re-elected Jennifer Wishon Gilbert as vice rector, with terms running July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027.
President Trump presented a posthumous Medal of Honor to Col. John W. Ripley of Radford, VA on June 19. His son Thomas accepted the nation's highest military award on his behalf.
Virginia Tech history and political science experts share perspectives on the U.S. 250th anniversary, reflecting on national progress and future challenges.
Radford treasurer's office and sheriff's office warn residents about scams involving fraudulent texts and emails targeting utility customers' personal information.
Big Spring Mill in Elliston reopens under new ownership, bringing back its historic seasoned flour after 175+ years of operation as a water-powered gristmill.
Coverage of Southwest Virginia Swim League activity involving local swimmers and teams in the region.
Blacksburg High School's boys soccer team ranked #1 in the nation by Max Preps after winning the Class 4 state title with a perfect 24-0 record.
Phillip Reece has been named the new head football coach at Blacksburg High School, introduced at a public ceremony in the school's auditorium.
Coverage of the Dixie District 3 tournament in Radford, Virginia.
Radford University softball coach Kevin Fagan resigns after two seasons, including a 2025 Big South championship and Coach of the Year honor.
VPRA officials visited Christiansburg to review progress on the future NRV Amtrak passenger rail station, including a completed retaining wall for the parking lot.
Virginia Department of Health reports no E. coli outbreak in Claytor Lake waters despite public concerns about swimming safety.
The New River Expedition (NRX26) team launched June 2 in Todd, NC, traveling 320 miles to Gauley Bridge, WV, with a stop in Radford.
Radford author Debbie Seagle is adapting her book 'Coffee Cups and Wine Glasses' for film, with production planned in the New River Valley.
Radford University's College of Education and Human Development earned full CAEP accreditation for a second consecutive cycle with no areas for improvement.
Radford celebrates individual and doubles state champions, highlighting athletic achievement in the community.
Auburn Hills Golf Course hosts a viral nine-day, nine-hole social media challenge between Golf Pro Jeff Gandee and assistant Carter White.
A new train station in Christiansburg's Cambria location is under construction, offering residents an alternative to driving on I-81.
A Christiansburg woman, Heather Renee Bentley, was sentenced to 45 years in prison for the 2024 death of her two-year-old daughter, receiving 40 years for felony child neglect and 5 years for second-degree murder.
Pulaski County Sheriff's Office & Radford University host 3-day Regional School Safety Symposium for SW Virginia law enforcement & educators.
Radford University tackles rural healthcare shortages with mobile clinic and record 350 nursing graduates aimed at Southwest Virginia communities.
Virginia's unclaimed property program offers residents a way to search for and claim money or assets that may belong to them.
Kelly Delucia developed a New River attraction near Radford after discovering over two acres of overgrown land adjacent to the river at her new property.
Dr. Scott Mann of Invision has been named the 2026 Virginia Optometrist of the Year, the first from the New River Valley and Roanoke Valley region to receive the honor.
Cole Martin awarded the 2026 Dobbins Family Scholarship by Radford City Schools Partners for Excellence Foundation, a $4,000 annual award for academic achievement and leadership.
The Norfolk & Western J-Class 611 steam locomotive received an 'America 250' decoration at the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke, celebrating national and regional pride.
Radford University received a $97,472 ARC POWER grant to develop an AI-driven workforce and economic development roadmap for Southwest Virginia.
NRCC students won the Virginia Community College System Poetry & Visual Arts Competition with works interpreting the theme 'I Dream.'
Larsen Kent Bowker, 89, passed away on May 30, 2026, surrounded by family. He was born and raised in Alexandria, Nebraska.
Virginia Mellisa Page Wilburn, 69, of Radford passed away on May 30, 2026, survived by her husband of 44 years and family.
A Blacksburg girl is making strides in girls' wrestling, a rapidly growing high school sport with over 74,000 participants nationwide now sanctioned in Virginia.
Radford holds a dual primary on August 4, 2026, featuring Democratic and Republican races. Polls open 6am-7pm; voter registration deadline is July 24.
Radford University launched the CARES Mobile Health Clinic outside New River Valley Community Services, bringing healthcare directly to the community.
Montgomery County Commonwealth's Attorney Mary Pettit is resigning after 21 years, with one year left in her term, prompting a November special election.
Radford Photo Club announces winners of its May animal and open theme photo contests, with entries featuring sheep, spider web arch, and other subjects.
Young string musicians of Montgomery Junior Appalachian Musicians (MJAM) concluded their spring 2026 semester with a concert at Christiansburg Presbyterian Church.
The 13th annual GiveLocalNRV Giving Day, hosted by CFNRV, runs June 24-25 as a 24-hour fundraising event for the New River Valley community.
Zach Leonard leaves Blacksburg High School football to become head coach at William Fleming in Roanoke, leaving Blacksburg searching for a replacement.
Auburn High School won the Region 1C outdoor track championship, with Isayeh Hamann earning three first-place finishes for the boys and Allyson Harris winning discus and shot for the girls.
Christiansburg High School finished second in girls' competition at a 3D track meet, tallying 116 points behind Abingdon's 134.5. The boys' team placed fifth with 51 points.
Blacksburg's Summer Arts Festival 2026 returns with free performances, films, art exhibitions, and family-friendly events for the community.
Dr. H. Randall Edwards and Dr. Florine Graham received the 20th Annual Chancellor's Award for Leadership in Philanthropy, nominated by New River Community College.
Hundreds honor fallen Carroll County Deputy Logan Utt, 31, shot May 29 during wellness check. Procession passed through Radford; suspect Michael Puckett apprehended.
Radford University celebrated the graduation of six high school students from an EMT pilot program, expanding emergency services partnerships with local schools.
Radford City Schools reports stop-arm cameras have captured 44 violations since January, with hotspots on Rock Road and Main Street. Videos sent to Radford Police.
Radford will host its "Spirit of America" Independence Day celebration at Bisset Park on July 3, 2026 — commemorating the nation's 250th birthday with live music, vendors, inflatables, and fireworks from 4–10 PM.
Radford City Schools joins USDA Summer Food Service Program in June 2026, offering free meals at Belle Heth Elementary and Radford High School.
Former Radford Vice Mayor Keith Marshall has released his debut novel 'The Haunting of Ingles Ferry,' a spiritual horror story set in a small town based on Radford, VA.
Radford High School history teacher John Ferguson named Teacher of the Year by the Society of the Cincinnati in the State of Virginia for excellence in teaching the American Revolution.
Virginia Tech's Board of Visitors will discuss relocating urns containing ashes of up to 61 alumni to make way for 3-4 new dormitories.
Rising gas prices and fuel uncertainty are prompting travelers to plan more carefully for summer, with a Virginia Tech hospitality expert offering cost-saving advice.
Radford University accounting students helped community members file tax returns through New River Community Action, gaining hands-on practical experience.
Standings from Pulaski Motorsports Park racing event, listing top drivers and points in Super Street, Pure 4, and Mod 4 categories.
Virginia Tech's Intercollegiate Dressage Team won its first national title at the 2026 championship in St. Louis, competing against 12 top teams.
A personal tribute piece reflecting on childhood heroes, focusing on the Lone Ranger as an iconic and authentic figure.
Rising costs of gasoline, food, and other expenses are straining residents, with a call to action to help neighbors facing financial hardship.
Sherry Ann Woolwine, 69, of Christiansburg, passed away May 20, 2026, after a long battle with health issues stemming from a 2001 brain aneurysm.
Radford City first-half real estate tax payments for 2026 are due June 5, 2026. Payments can be made in person, by mail, or other available methods.
Blue Ridge Outdoors named Radford University the "Top Adventure College" for 2026, the second consecutive year the university has earned the designation.
NRV Leading Lights honored 35 community volunteers at a ceremony on April 30 at Virginia Tech's German Club for their impactful contributions.
Motor Mile Chevrolet Buick is sponsoring Radford High School senior banners to be displayed on West Main Street from mid-May to mid-June.
Radford Noon Rotary, Glencoe Mansion, VFW Post 776, and DAR will host 'A Tribute to Heroes' opening ceremony on Memorial Day, May 26 at 2 p.m.
Radford University awarded ~350 BSN degrees in 2025-26, a record high and among the largest outputs of pre-licensure nursing graduates in Virginia.
US Bicycle Route 76 along Mud Pike Road (Route 666) connecting Christiansburg and Radford faces ongoing safety concerns, echoing objections raised 50 years ago during its original Bikecentennial mapping.
Virginia legislature addressed partisan issues including gun safety and individual rights, with many bills passing bipartisan or unanimous support.
Special graduation section for NRV Class of 2026, available as a downloadable PDF for subscribers.
Article advises investors to stay calm during market volatility, noting that uncertainty is a normal part of investing and reacting to headlines is often counterproductive.
Radford University's nursing program and NRV Community Services launched "Radford University Cares," a mobile health clinic providing free maternal health resources, screenings, and baby care supplies to rural Virginia communities.
Radford University's College of Nursing graduates record ~350 nurses and unveils a mobile clinic RV to serve rural communities.
New River Community Action receives $3.7M federal grant from HHS to support Head Start projects across Radford and surrounding counties.
Radford High School history teacher John Ferguson won the Brenton S. Halsey Teaching Excellence Award, while his students earned third place at Virginia History Day.
A Montgomery County grand jury indicted two individuals for murder in separate cases involving the deaths of senior citizens due to abuse or neglect.
Radford Noon Rotary Club shows support for the Lunch Pail Defense Foundation, a community-focused charitable organization.
The 35th Annual Wilderness Road Ride returns to Radford on May 23, 2026, hosted by FCA Endurance with five route options for cyclists.
Radford City Council approved changes to the Tax Relief Program for Elderly/Disabled, raising the maximum annual income to $30,000 and increasing the total assets limit.
Pulaski County Motorsports announces its winners in a recent event or competition.
New River Community College offers four free summer camps in Dublin and Christiansburg for middle and high school students, including robotics and engineering programs.
Blacksburg High School goalkeeper Nathan Pratt, who has allowed only one goal in 14 matches this season, has committed to play college soccer at VCU.
Missing 70-year-old Radford woman Constance Rhodes was found safe after leaving home and experiencing vehicle trouble near Christiansburg.
Radford University and NRV Community Services partner to offer free maternal health resources amid rural Virginia hospital unit closures.
Radford City Council approved property tax, water, and electric rate increases for the third consecutive year on April 28.
Radford University awarded 1,400+ degrees at spring commencement, with graduates receiving 2 complimentary Dollywood tickets from Dolly Parton.
Radford University held spring commencement May 1-2 for 1,427 graduates, featuring a surprise video message from Dolly Parton and Dollywood tickets.
Eugene Naughton, a 1989 Radford alumnus and president of Dollywood Co., will serve as commencement speaker for the university's May 2026 graduation ceremonies.
The New River Valley, including Radford, is experiencing severe to extreme drought conditions as of late April 2026, disrupting spring planting and damaging fruit crops across the region.
Dunkin' celebrated the grand opening of its Fairlawn location on April 30 with free donuts for a year and a $2,000 donation to Special Olympics of Virginia.
Governor Abigail Spanberger appointed Christopher B. Settle, a 1997 Radford alumnus, to the Radford University Board of Visitors on April 29, 2026.
Radford University announced the formation of a Center for Rural Health Partner Council, partnering with organizations across Southwest and Southside Virginia to address healthcare challenges in rural communities.
Lightning strike at Radford Army Ammunition Plant caused blackout and vapor venting; two security personnel treated for potential fume exposure.
A lightning strike on April 28 caused a blackout at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant, resulting in a brief vapor release and two security personnel being treated for potential fume exposure.
The Radford Clothing Bank was recognized as Agency Partner of the Year by the United Way of Southwest Virginia at its 2026 Impact Awards for providing free clothing to New River Valley residents in need.
Niche.com ranked Radford's public schools among the top 20 school systems in Virginia for 2026, recognizing the quality of education in the small city school district.
Save the Next Rider Foundation honors teen Michael Lee Price, killed in Radford motorcycle crash, with a community ride and family event on April 18.
After months of work sessions, the comprehensive rewrite of Radford's zoning ordinance will enter the public hearing phase, including new standards for data centers and industrial buffers.
Jeff Brown, a biology teacher at Radford High School with 28 years of experience, was named the 2026 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year for Region 7.
Radford native Col. John Ripley to receive Medal of Honor posthumously for his 1972 Vietnam War heroism at Cua Viet River bridge.
Radford faces fiscal distress designation; city proposes real estate tax hike, water rate doubling, 5% electric increase, and hiring freeze to address financial challenges.
Sparky's Run Dog Park in Radford reopened on March 31 with a new pavilion and play equipment for dogs.
Council approves hiring plan to add officers and firefighters, addressing staffing shortages that have affected response times.
Radford City Council discusses hiring Brown, Edmonds & Company for a forensic audit of city finances from June 2020 to June 2025, covering 24+ expenditure categories.
Radford City Council contracted accounting firm Brown Edwards to conduct a forensic audit of city finances from June 2020 to June 2025, examining payroll, utilities, and tax revenue. Results expected by late August 2026.
Radford University's Board of Visitors unanimously approved tuition and fee increases for the 2026–27 academic year. In-state undergraduate tuition will rise 2.25% ($196), out-of-state undergraduate by 4% ($880), and the mandatory comprehensive fee by 6% ($248). The Radford Tuition Promise continues to cover tuition for eligible in-state students with household income of $100,000 or less.
Radford seeks community input on allocating $160K+ in federal CDBG funding, with 70% required to benefit low-to-moderate income residents.
Roanoke Police identify suspect in Feb. 8 double shooting at Refreshing Church; two men killed, suspect held without bail on unrelated charges.
Radford continues to utilize HUD Community Development Block Grant funding for housing rehabilitation and infrastructure in low-to-moderate income neighborhoods.
Radford University student athlete Joey Raccuia, 19, died in a car crash on East St. on Feb. 25, 2026.
19-year-old Joseph Raccuia of Radford was killed in a single-vehicle crash on the 10 block of East Street on February 25, 2026.
A split council voted 3-2 to increase water and sewer rates, part of a broader effort to address Radford's structural financial imbalance.
Joseph Raccuia, 19, a Radford University student, was killed in a single-vehicle crash on East Street on February 25. The crash remains under investigation.
Pulaski County and Radford are in litigation over a 1978 revenue-sharing agreement tied to Fairlawn, Virginia's first such deal.
Corey Edward Carter, 56, arrested for stabbing and robbery on Feb. 1 on 200 block of Second Street in Radford.
Radford PD arrested Corey Carter, 56, for stabbing and robbery on Feb. 1 at 200 block of Second Street. Charged with Aggravated Malicious Wounding.
Radford Police arrested Corey Carter, 56, of Pulaski in connection with a February 1 stabbing and robbery in the 200 block of Second Street that left a man with multiple stab wounds.
Radford residents and officials express mixed feelings about city's financial crisis, with city charter loss a possibility if issues aren't addressed.
Radford University officially launched "Shaping Tomorrow — Together," a six-year strategic plan focused on defining the university's identity, driving regional economic development, and stabilizing enrollment.
A majority of the 84 indexed development projects for the 2025-2026 cycle are residential, signaling growing demand in Radford's housing market.
Radford officials address financial pressures including Appalachian Power debt and Pulaski County lawsuit while pursuing economic growth opportunities.
Radford University received a swatting call referencing Heth Hall on Dec 2. Campus police searched and found no threat. Public asked to contact RUPD.
Radford PD hosted a community safety event on Downey St after a teen fatally shot someone, promoting gun safety via 'Lock It Up, Save a Life' campaign.
A minor is charged with second-degree murder after a fatal shooting near Radford University campus. Police chief cites rise in gun crimes and gang influence.
Juvenile charged with second-degree murder after fatal shooting on Downey St. in Radford at 2:35 a.m. Saturday, September 13.
Radford Police investigating series of vehicle break-ins across multiple areas; one suspect in custody after Ring camera footage.
Austin Blake Hixon was sentenced to 86 months in federal prison for his role in the November 2022 break-in at 1st Pawn in Fairlawn, where approximately 15 firearms were stolen and later sold or traded for methamphetamine.
Radford Road homeowner raises speeding concerns; VDOT data shows 4 fatalities 2015-2024, ~8,700 daily travelers, no speed limit changes planned.
Brent J. Thompson arrested after firing gun into air during altercation on Fairfax St, charged with multiple firearm offenses, DUI, and assault.
Radford City Police arrested Brent J. Thompson after he brandished a firearm and fired it into the air during an altercation on Fairfax Street. Thompson was also charged with DUI and assault & battery.
Two more suspects arrested in April 17 Radford shooting on E. Main St. Dominick Anderson & Trevion Johnson face robbery and weapons charges.
Two charged after shooting on Main Street near Radford University shakes students; freshman describes receiving campus alert during class.
Two charged in Radford double shooting on E. Main St. Robert Leonard and Sidney Schwartz face multiple felony charges including weapons and assault.
Two more charged in April 17 shooting near Radford University; victims shot near 1200 E Main St in isolated incident.
Joey Lyn Phipps, 43, arrested after 6-mile chase in stolen vehicle, faces felony eluding, stolen goods, and outstanding warrant charges.
Maurice A. Miller, 33, arrested for domestic violence on Davis Street, charged with malicious wounding, strangulation, and related offenses.
Bryant Sylvester Weaver arrested in Radford for sexual assault, strangulation, sodomy, and abduction on Forest Ave. Held without bond.
Radford man Bryant Weaver arrested for sexual assault, strangulation, and other charges after Oct. 1 incident on Forest Ave.
Gregory Thoma of Radford indicted on 45 counts related to child pornography including possession, reproduction, distribution, solicitation, and facilitation.
A vehicle pursuit by RUPD and Radford City Police ended in the Third Avenue Municipal Parking Lot, where the suspect self-inflicted a personal injury after exiting the vehicle.
Radford police crime report lists multiple incidents on Jan. 1-2, including drug violations, simple assaults, and property vandalism at various locations.
Missing 13-year-old Amythst 'Amy' Palmer of Radford was found unharmed after leaving her residence in the early morning hours.
Radford police are investigating multiple break-ins at residences near Radford University's east side campus area that occurred during Thanksgiving break.