Officials hold news conference after four people arrested, 16 children rescued from Ohio home WCHS-TV 2026-07-01 | Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson, Vinton County Sheriff Ryan Cain and Vinton County Prosecutor William Archer hold a news conference following the arraignment of Gary Siders Jr., Gary Siders Sr., Christina Siders and Elizabeth Siders.The four were arrested after law enforcement executed a search warrant Tuesday at their Hamden, Ohio, residence, where investigators located 16 children living in deplorable conditions.MORE: wchstv.com/news/local/four-facing-felony-child-endangerment-charges-vinton-county-appear-hamden-court-children-ohio-police-investigation-gary-christina-elizabeth-siders _________________________________________ For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up Follow WCHS-TV on social media:Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11
More than a dozen arrested with ties to illegal voting and other election related crimes WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | The Trump administration is keeping the spotlight on what it sees as illegal voting in U.S. elections. While the cases are not widespread, top White House officials say they demonstrate that there are people in this country who attempt to vote illegallyAmong the 16 people recently arrested for illegal voting or other election-related crimes, nine were from the state of Texas.Mexican national Monica Carzoli, 46, a lawful permanent resident, admitted to registering to vote and then voting in the November 2024 election. Carzoli was arrested on criminal charges this week in Del Rio, Texas.During a September 15 news conference, Ryan Raybould, a U.S. Attorney with the Northern District of Texas, said, "Anyone who is not a citizen and chooses to cast a ballot or claimed citizenship falsely is breaking the law. We cannot and will not allow that to stand."_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
ICE shooting in North Austin sparks protest WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | A federal immigration officer shot and wounded a man in North Austin Sunday, prompting a large protest near Research Boulevard and Anderson Square.Austin officials said the shooting happened shortly before 1 p.m. during a federal immigration operation. Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said preliminary information indicated there may have been a brief foot pursuit. Austin police were not involved in the shooting.PREVIOUS COVERAGE | City confirms ICE Officer involved in North Austin shooting, victim in stable conditionThe man shot was identified by his attorney as 28-year-old Wilber Rafael Garces Perez, a Venezuelan national. Officials said he was shot once in the torso and was in serious but stable condition.Demonstrators quickly mobilized following reports of the shooting, lining sidewalks, waving Mexican flags and chanting “Abolish ICE.”_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Significant flooding reported across southern Ohio WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | We have team coverage following significant flooding across parts of southern Ohio, including Meigs and Vinton counties. _________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Video captures GUNSHOTS during ICE involved shooting in Austin WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | A woman livestreaming in Austin captured the moment gunshots rang out during an ICE-involved shooting. An agent shot and injured a man, who was hospitalized in serious but stable condition, according to Austin police.READ MORE: thenationaldesk.com/news/americas-news-now/casar-calls-for-independent-probe-bodycam-release-after-reported-ice-shooting-in-austinFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Dispatch audio of police responding to ICE shooting WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | A federal immigration officer shot and wounded a man in North Austin Sunday, prompting a large protest near Research Boulevard and Anderson Square.READ MORE: bit.ly/4hjHVtCFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
JD Vance Lets send the CRAZY packing WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | Vice President J.D. Vance urged Iowa Republicans to turn out in November during a campaign rally Friday in Council Bluffs, his second visit to the state this year to support GOP candidates.READ MORE: bit.ly/4h5qNZGFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Mike Waltz says NO TIMELINE for when Iran war will end WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | Mike Waltz says there’s no set timeline for the standoff with Iran, but President Trump’s objectives remain clear: prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon while leaving the door open to negotiations. Waltz says “maximum pressure” will remain in place in the meantime, targeting an Iranian economy in which the IRGC has extensive influence.READ MORE: bit.ly/4yaZFOWFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Patrick’s story Clancy plans to set the record straight on ex wife, with new partner WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | Patrick Clancy will sit down with 60 Minutes for an interview.thenationaldesk.com/news/americas-news-now/patrick-clancy-to-sit-down-with-60-minutes-for-an-interview-lindsay-clancy-massachusetts-donald-trumpFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Austin TX officials address ICE involved shooting WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | One person was hurt in a shooting involving an ICE Officer in North Austin at Anderson Square Sunday afternoon.MORE: cbsaustin.com/news/local/one-person-injured-in-north-austin-shootingFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
ICE Officer involved in Austin TX shooting, victim in stable condition WCHS-TV 2026-09-21 | The man shot by an ICE agent in North Austin has been identified as Wilbur Rafael Garces Perez. His family's attorney says he was handed over to ICE custody Sunday evening, but his whereabouts and health status remain unknown. Jahmal has the latest. Watch live on CBS Austin This Morning.cbsaustin.com/news/local/one-person-injured-in-north-austin-shootingFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Van High School ends football season after three games WCHS-TV 2026-09-20 | The sound of pads colliding and fans cheering on the Van High School Bulldogs will now be a thing of the past at Herschel Jarrell Field.School officials announced Wednesday the season would be discontinued after only three games.Van Principal Jennifer Dent said ultimately it came down to the safety of the 12 players on the roster."There was talk early on that we were kind of going to have to play it by ear, game by game, to see what was gonna happen," Dent said. "Ultimately, as the season wore on and some injuries were happening and things like that, it just became apparent that it was probably not going to be able to continue the season."Last year, the Bulldogs had to cancel the season due to a low turnout of players.With a little more interest this year, the season carried extra weight for the Bulldogs with the potential of their school closing looming on the horizon.Dent said even fielding a team is something to be proud of."Of course they wanted to take that opportunity and go," Dent said. "With the potential for closures of our school, they wanted to be that Bulldog team and make the community proud."While this season's fate has been sealed, Dent said what the small group of players were able to do will not be forgotten."It's hard to find teams to play that are equitable to the numbers that you have, so there's a lot of travel involved and I think that everyone in the community and in the school will be very proud of those students for doing what they did," Dent said.FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/van-high-school-ends-football-season-after-three-games_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Hope Gas customers speak out after receiving abnormally high bills WCHS-TV 2026-09-20 | Hope Gas customers in Milton are speaking out after receiving abnormally high bills in the mail.The highest gas bill Ashby and Jennifer Kave said they've received was a little over $200 during the winter. Their bill for the month of July was $670."Shocked, totally shocked when we saw that amount," Jennifer said.The couple is not alone. Other people living in the area said they've received bills over $1,000."We went to the company, we asked, 'Why is this bill so much? What is going on?' The only explanation we got was it was an actual read," Ashby said. "There was not a meter person in our area to read the meters. Then all of a sudden they said, 'We'll set you on a payment plan.'"In a statement to WCHS, Hope Gas said:"Over the past several months, some customers bills were impacted when estimated meter readings were later reconciled with actual usage. We are aware of the issue and are actively working to address it. This includes reviewing impacted accounts and replacing older meters with newer technology that provides actual usage readings and reduces the need for estimated bills."The Kaves themselves have already gone to the Public Service Commission of West Virginia with their complaints and encourage their neighbors to do the same."I want them to file a complaint with the Public Service Commission. Don't be afraid to do it," Ashby said. "They've been wonderful to work with. We've worked with some really nice staff members there. They'll walk you through the process and it'll allow for your voice to be heard. I really want them to step up. Everybody find their voice that has a high bill and come forward."FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/hope-gas-customers-in-milton-speak-out-after-july-bills-spike-some-topping-1000_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
The Protect College Sports Act on its way through Senate WCHS-TV 2026-09-20 | Supporters of the Protect College Sports Act are mounting a full-court press in Congress, hoping to bring the bipartisan bill to a vote during lawmakers' brief return to Capitol Hill ahead of the midterm elections. The legislation would create a national set of standards for college athletics, including caps on how much schools can pay athletes under name, image and likeness deals, limits on the number of times players can transfer, and antitrust exemptions for the NCAA, conferences and schools among a slew of other provisions.High-profile men's college basketball coaches, including Arkansas' John Calipari and Gonzaga's Mark Few, were on Capitol Hill Monday advocating for the bill."Sometimes that beautiful house at the end of the block maybe has a rotting foundation, and that's where we're at," Few said. "We're going to rot from within, because we just — there needs to be some stability. We need to have some enforceable rules."Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, one of the bill's chief architects, pushed for its passage on ESPN's "College Game Day" over the weekend, while being loudly jeered by the crowd._________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Traveling WV: New River Otter Laps WCHS-TV 2026-09-20 | Veteran whitewater guide Nick "Nugget" Parsons is always looking for a new challenge. Two years ago, he and other guides started doing what they like to call "otter laps." No boat, no paddle, just a life jacket and a helmet. They literally swim the class five rapids of the New River beginning in Cunard and finishing at Fayette Station under the New River Gorge bridge. Parsons has done this about 40 times, and recently began documenting them with his GoPro. FULL STORY: wchstv.com/community/traveling-west-virginia/traveling-wv-new-river-otter-laps_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Lawmakers and advocates weigh data centers’ tax promise and water impacts WCHS-TV 2026-09-20 | During interim meetings this week, a member of West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey's administration told lawmakers that infrastructure and water quality could be improved with data centers."If we can cite data centers in the southern coalfields and get the tax revenue moving into the counties so that they can use tens of millions of dollars every year in additional revenue to upgrade their water, doing it through the 5% that the Legislature set aside for water infrastructure and dedicating that to the infrastructure in these small communities that don't have the wherewithal to be able to fund the infrastructure themselves and operate it," West Virginia's Office of Energy Nicholas Preservati told lawmakers on Tuesday.Concerns still remain, with some saying they don't believe there are enough guardrails in place to ensure these facilities will be held accountable."We need a lot of support with those failing systems," West Virginia Rivers Coalition Executive Director Jennie Smith said. "I will also say we don't have enough information yet about how that revenue would be a key part in solving that. I think there has to be a lot put in place like transparent guardrails to make sure that if that money is generated, will it actually go to what it's seeing it's going to and really provide lasting sustainable change?"Smith said the financial impact is not the only thing that needs to be looked at when it comes to high impact data centers."One of the things that I hope we are aware of is the cumulative impact on the community where that data center is being built," she said. "We can't look at revenue without accounting for the costs that that's going to take to be able to have that revenue."Smith said she believes if the proper guardrails are implemented and if the data center companies are transparent, communities could benefit financially."With guardrails and transparency, that could be really helpful," she said. "I also think the data centers that have been approved have a real chance to build partnerships with us to be transparent about where that water is coming from and the kind of systems that they're going to use within their centers."FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/morrisey-administration-pitches-data-centers-as-funding-source-for-water-upgrades_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Former Scioto County commissioner, wife sentenced in public contracting scheme WCHS-TV 2026-09-19 | A former Scioto County commissioner and his wife were sentenced Wednesday after pleading guilty to their roles in a public contracting scheme.STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/former-scioto-county-commissioner-wife-sentenced-in-public-contracting-scheme
WV lawmakers draft bill to protect kids pulled from public school amid abuse concerns WCHS-TV 2026-09-19 | West Virginia lawmakers are drafting legislation aimed at adding safeguards for children who are withdrawn from public school amid abuse or neglect concerns.STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/wva-lawmakers-draft-bill-to-protect-kids-pulled-from-public-school-amid-abuse-concerns
Traveling WV: New River Otter Laps WCHS-TV 2026-09-19 | Veteran whitewater guide Nick "Nugget" Parsons is always looking for a new challenge. Two years ago, he and other guides started doing what they like to call "otter laps." No boat, no paddle, just a life jacket and a helmet. They literally swim the class five rapids of the New River beginning in Cunard and finishing at Fayette Station under the New River Gorge bridge. Parsons has done this about 40 times, and recently began documenting them with his GoPro. FULL STORY: wchstv.com/community/traveling-west-virginia/traveling-wv-new-river-otter-laps_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
West Virginia youth earns runner-up at Pokémon World Championships Junior Finals WCHS-TV 2026-09-19 | The quest of a West Virginia youth to catch ‘em all led to a spotlight on an international stage.Luke Giffen reached the Pokémon World Championships Junior Finals in San Francisco, claiming a runner up spot in 2026.Giffen said he’s been playing the popular card game for more than three years."I had two qualifications because I got top four at the Latin American International Championships,” Giffen explained. “Other than that, I ended up winning the North American International Championships. That gave me two invites to Worlds."Luke’s father, Chad Giffen explained his son’s dedication to the game.“To be on the level that Luke is, it requires several hours a day of practice, testing, literature and learning matchups,” he said. “We travel around the world so our kid can play Pokémon, but my recommendation to any parents, whatever your kids are into, just go do it."Luke is among millions who enjoy the hobby and has already proven to be an elite trainer."I was really happy because this was my last term in the juniors and I felt like I achieved my goal," he said.This weekend, Luke will be competing in Baltimore as he looks to qualify for 2027 World Championships in Singapore.FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/west-virginia-youth-earns-runner-up-at-pokemon-world-championships-junior-finals_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Hundreds of West Virginia foster kids remain placed out-of-state despite overall drop WCHS-TV 2026-09-19 | September interims have wrapped up and the biggest topic still on the table is the state's troubled foster care system.The Department of Human Services reported to lawmakers that there are currently over 5,700 children in the foster care system. That's a decrease from the 7,000-plus that was reported back in 2020."In 2020, we hit the height and we have slowly been trending back down," West Virginia Bureau of Social Services Deputy Commissioner Kendra Boley Rogers told lawmakers on Monday.West Virginia is seeing a slight decrease in children in the foster care system, but hundreds are still in out-of-state placements."Between 2025 and 2026, we had a 5% decrease in the number of children in foster care placements during those point of times," Boley Rogers said.The West Virginia Department of Human Services credited those downward trending numbers in part to the state making headway with its substance use disorder crisis and reuniting children with their biological families.However, Sen. Brian Helton said he doesn't believe the decrease in overdose deaths is what has contributed to these numbers."The overdose rates are down due to some more self-harm reduction issues such as Narcan, such as these programs that focus on getting that out of the streets and also some of the reporting of overdose deaths has changed," Helton said. "I'm not so sure that's going anywhere. I don't know that the improvement that's really making a difference. I, for one, believe it's more of an issue of how we're handling these CPS cases as opposed to any improvement in the opioid epidemic."Helton said he believes we won't see a real change in the number of children being taken from their homes until more changes are made to the state's drug treatment program."Unfortunately we're still No. 1 in the nation in overdose deaths," he said. "We're No. 1 in the nation and children being taken from the home. I think, until we fix our drug treatment program, we probably shouldn't pat ourselves on the back and think we're doing a good job."Helton said they're looking at bills next session that focus on outcomes and results to ensure treatment programs are getting parents to a point of sobriety where they can keep their children."I'm hopeful our state keeps the foot on the pedal, that we continue to understand that we're not there yet and we have to get improvements," he said. "Otherwise the volume of the children are going to be continue to be high until we get that drug treatment program fixed."Helton said he believes its important to look back on some bills relating to foster care that didn't make it across the finish line last session and consider them next year.FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/september-interims-end-with-west-virginia-foster-care-system-still-a-top-issue_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
UFO files released by Pentagon with decades old information WCHS-TV 2026-09-19 | The Defense Department on Friday released its sixth batch of declassified Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), or UFO, records as part of the Trump administration’s transparency initiative.The 10 new files were added to the Presidential Unsealing and Reporting System for UAP Encounters, or PURSUE, which began publishing records in May. They include audio, video and documents from the Department of War and local law enforcement.Read more: thenationaldesk.com/news/americas-news-now/pentagon-releases-new-ufo-unidentified-anomalous-phenomena-videos-decades-old-files-in-fresh-transparency-drop-defense-department-pentagon-trump-administration-transparency-air-force-law-enforcementFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
1 million digital files being reviewed in connection to missing women, house of horrors WCHS-TV 2026-09-18 | Philadelphia police and the FBI are reviewing more than 1 million images and videos recovered from a home in the city’s Olney neighborhood that is tied to five missing women.Police said nearly 60 people appear in the digital evidence, with some shown injured, unconscious or appearing to be deceased.Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
WV lawmaker reintroduces bill restoring death penalty for child sex abuse cases WCHS-TV 2026-09-18 | A West Virginia lawmaker plans to reintroduce legislation that would restore the death penalty for certain sexual offenses against children under 12. West Virginia abolished the death penalty in 1965.STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/sen-brian-helton-to-reintroduce-bill-restoring-death-penalty-for-child-sex-abuse-cases
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visits W.Va. as part of nationwide tour WCHS-TV 2026-09-18 | U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon received a firsthand tour of the Woody Williams Career and Technical Center in Barboursville on Thursday morning as part of her nationwide Returning Education to the States Tour.West Virginia was stop No. 43 for McMahon."College is not for everyone, and sitting at a desk reading a book is not the way everybody learns," McMahon said.McMahon saw firsthand how hands-on learning is taking place at the Woody Williams Career and Technical Center. The Returning Education to the States Tour allows the secretary to hear from students and educators across the country about the initiative."The goal is to eliminate the Department of Education," McMahon said. "We've spent $3 trillion to watch our scores continue to decline. We have not helped our students."She believes more hands-on learning is needed across the country. During the visit, students guided the secretary through the center's various programs."I helped explain the electrical knowledge program so she would understand it," student Madelynn Black said."It was pretty cool having her here," student Cash Messinger said.The goal of the tour is to empower families and hear from students, teachers and community leaders about learning opportunities in their own communities."States have to determine for themselves what their needs are," McMahon said.The goal is to have the work related to returning education to the states completed by the end of President Donald Trump's term in office._________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Trial delayed for ex-county commissioner, teacher indicted on 250+ child sex crimes WCHS-TV 2026-09-18 | The trial date for a former elementary school teacher and Calhoun County commissioner indicted on more than 250 charges has been delayed as both the prosecution and defense sort through evidence in the case.A new trial date for Jacob McCumbers, of Arnoldsburg, was set for Dec. 8 in Roane County during a pretrial hearing in Calhoun County on Thursday.The case centers around a 2025 investigation by West Virginia State Police where an alleged victim disclosed that McCumbers had sexually assaulted him for about eight to nine years, according to a criminal complaint. The victim told investigators he was under the age of 10 when the sexual abuse began and accused McCumbers of threatening to hurt him if he told anyone.McCumbers was initially arrested in September 2025 on 50 counts of sexual abuse as a result of that investigation. He was later indicted by a Calhoun County grand jury in May 2026 on 172 counts of first-degree sexual abuse and 86 counts of sexual abuse by a parent or guardian, which he pleaded not guilty to.The Calhoun County school district said McCumbers – who was previously listed as a first grade teacher at Arnoldsburg Elementary – was immediately removed from his teaching position following his initial arrest in 2025. He resigned from his commissioner position in October 2025.McCumbers’ court hearings in Calhoun County have drawn crowds each time. A small group of people were outside the courthouse Thursday morning calling for justice in the case.A change of venue in the case was granted during a May court hearing. McCumbers has been on home confinement after posting bond following that court hearing._________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
West Virginia farmers face pressure as cheaper beef competes with local cattle WCHS-TV 2026-09-18 | West Virginia cattle producers are raising concerns that more imported beef could drive down prices for local farmers.Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt said increasing the supply of beef in the United States can lower the prices farmers receive for their cattle.“Anytime you bring more beef in from the outside and you import beef, you’re increasing the supply, which then reduces the prices for our farmers,” Leonhardt said.He said producers have expressed frustration with the policy.At Trailhead Farm Meats and More in Gassaway, owner Nik Salvo sells beef from cattle born and raised in West Virginia. He said local beef can cost about 30% more than beef sold at lower prices, making it harder for farmers to compete.“The problem here in the state is it hurts local farmers because people are more likely to buy by price than quality,” Salvo said.Salvo said buying locally also gives consumers more information about how their food was produced and supports farmers in their communities.“It’s better for the environment, better for the animals and better for the people that are eating it to know that they’re buying an all-natural local product as opposed to beef that’s been brought in from other places,” he said.Consumers may not always know where their meat originated because labels indicating a product has been inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture do not necessarily identify where the animal was born or raised.“A USDA label only means that it’s legal for sale in the United States, not necessarily that it’s been made in the United States or born in the United States,” Salvo said.Leonhardt said his office has pushed for mandatory country-of-origin labeling. Until then, he encouraged producers to make the business decisions that work best for their farms.“We’ve got great farmers,” Leonhardt said. “They know how to make these business decisions themselves.”_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
New cinema company comping to Huntington; Police searching for shooting suspect WCHS-TV 2026-09-18 | Today's headlines: All Elite Wrestling is coming to Charleston, a new cinema is coming to Huntington and police are searching for a shooting suspect in Huntington.
Scholarship aims to ease teacher shortage in West Virginia WCHS-TV 2026-09-18 | Jacob Massey comes from a family of teachers.His mother and grandmother both taught before him, and Massey said he always knew he wanted to follow in their footsteps. He also knew he wanted to teach at his alma mater, Sherman High School.“If I couldn’t teach at Sherman, I probably wouldn’t teach anywhere for the most part,” Massey said. “My interest in teaching is helping my community and helping out people I know and grew up with.”For Massey, avoiding significant student debt was also a priority.“I just always had this feeling in the back of my head that I wanted to teach,” he said. "I wanted to find a way to teach where I wouldn’t have to take a bunch of debt because that would be so hard to climb out of.”Massey said he did not want to take out loans to earn his education degree. The Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program helped make that possible.“I really did not want to take any loans,” he said. “I don’t think it would have stopped me from becoming a teacher, but it’s definitely helped me a lot.”The state-funded scholarship provides up to $40,000 to West Virginia college students pursuing education degrees. Twenty-five students are selected in each cohort.Recipients agree to teach for five years in a West Virginia school after graduating, a requirement intended to help retain teachers in the state.Education West Virginia Co-President Dale Lee said the state continues to face a shortage of educators, with more than 500 teaching positions advertised statewide. He said the need also extends to service personnel, including cooks, custodians and bus drivers.“There is a shortage, and we really need to address that,” Lee said.Lee said expanding the scholarship could bring more aspiring teachers into West Virginia classrooms. In 2024, 111 eligible applicants did not receive the scholarship, he said. That number increased to 167 in 2025.“If we can expand that scholarship program, then we’re going to get more aspiring teachers into West Virginia,” Lee said.Currently, 42 scholarship recipients are working in 22 counties across the state.FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/wva-scholarship-aims-to-ease-teacher-shortage-with-42-recipients-statewide_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Golden retriever offers toys, tail wags to intruder instead of guarding home WCHS-TV 2026-09-17 | The worst guard dog in history…Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Not normal’: Oversight chair weighs in on cremation of Trump would be assassin WCHS-TV 2026-09-17 | The records show Crooks used the alias “Bob Dole” to receive packages. The documents also say an anonymous donor paid for Crooks’ cremation days after the shooting. The files further indicate Crooks was seen with unidentified men at a gun store weeks earlier and met another unknown person at a range the day before the attack.Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed this week that the newly surfaced details about Crooks’ background and history included information that had not been known before.House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer told The National News Desk his committee had been seeking information and that it had been “very slow being delivered to the American people.”“We've been waiting for this information. We requested it and it's been very slow being delivered to the American people,” Comer said. “I think there are still a lot of questions that we have for the FBI.”_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Flock cameras face nationwide backlash over privacy and misuse concerns WCHS-TV 2026-09-17 | The worst guard dog in history…Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
FOX Appalachia Digital Broadcast | September 17 WCHS-TV 2026-09-17 | FOX Appalachia presents a digital 6:30 PM news broadcast due to Major League Baseball programming.MORE LOCAL NEWS: wchstv.com
Cartels fight to dominate Mexico amid leadership changes WCHS-TV 2026-09-17 | WASHINGTON (SOA) — The death of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, has not weakened the organization's resolve.Instead, federal officials say Juan Carlos Valencia González, El Mencho’s 41-year-old stepson and a dual Mexican and U.S. citizen born in California, known as "El Pelon," has emerged as the cartel’s new leader and the DEA’s top target.“According to our intelligence, we believe he is not only the heir apparent but the individual who has essentially taken over at CJNG,” DEA Associate Administrator Gary Owen told Spotlight on America. “As far as DEA is concerned, it really doesn’t matter who he is. He is now our public enemy No. 1.”_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Huntington development surge bringing new life to long-vacant properties WCHS-TV 2026-09-17 | A wave of new development projects are taking shape across Huntington, from downtown high-rises and Pullman Square to a new Kroger Marketplace and continued growth around Marshall University.City development leaders say the recent surge is not happening overnight. Instead, they point to years of work.“It takes a while,” Huntington Municipal Development Authority Executive Director Cathy Burns said. “You’ve got to cultivate relationships. You’ve got to show them that you have the stamina to pull it off. You’ve got to show them that you have the wherewithal to pull it off.”Burns said the city’s current momentum can be traced back decades, including the original development of Pullman Square in the early 2000s. Since then, Burns said the focus has expanded to other parts of downtown, with the city working to remove some of the uncertainty that can come with redevelopment projects. That has included environmental work, feasibility studies and efforts to give developers more information before they make major investments.Burns said Huntington is also seeing a new generation of investors take interest in properties that have sat vacant for years.“We’re starting to see a turnover of younger people who are now investing in these buildings,” Burns said. “People aren’t just holding on to vacant properties any longer."The projects span nearly every part of Huntington. Downtown, the historic Prichard Building is being transformed into 108 apartments for senior living, while the former Glenn’s Sporting Goods/Mack and Dave’s building is set to become a new family entertainment center.At Pullman Square, ICON Cinemas is planning a multimillion-dollar overhaul of the theater with upgraded screens, bowling, an arcade and new dining options.Along Fifth Avenue and 24th Street, construction is beginning on a new Kroger Marketplace, part of a larger redevelopment area near Marshall University.Marshall itself is continuing work on its more than $300 million IDEA District.On the West End, the city has continued revitalization efforts along 14th Street West including the entire redevelopment of the Old Central City park.The Marshall Health Network Arena — formerly Big Sandy Superstore Arena — has undergone more than $14 million in renovations.Together, the projects are adding housing, retail, entertainment, research and jobs while putting several older or underused properties back into use.Pullman Square Manager Michelle Adkins said some of that change is already visible downtown.“It’s just to see the foot traffic and the car traffic that is driving through,” Adkins said.One of the latest examples is ICON Cinemas. ICON Cinemas CEO Stetson Snell said Huntington fit the type of market the company was looking to enter.“The demographics here are great,” Snell said. “Like I said, it’s a growing area here.”Snell said the company expects its new entertainment complex to draw customers from 20 to 30 miles away, which could also benefit nearby restaurants and businesses.Burns said Huntington’s historic charm has also benefited their efforts. After downtown was established as a historic district, it opened the door to tax incentives that can help offset the high cost of restoring older properties.Now, with several commercial projects underway, Burns said the city is also looking toward housing and population growth.Huntington already serves as a major employment center, with its daytime population growing as people travel into the city for work, the next challenge is giving more of those people a reason to stay.Development leaders say more announcements are coming in the near future._________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Former Scioto County commissioner, wife sentenced in public contracting scheme WCHS-TV 2026-09-17 | A former Scioto County commissioner and his wife were sentenced Wednesday after pleading guilty to their roles in a public contracting scheme.Former county commissioner Bryan Davis was sentenced to 30 months in prison for theft in office and 11 months for filing a false tax return. Both sentences are set to run concurrently.Davis’ wife, Lorinda, was sentenced to 24 months of probation for tampering with evidence.The Davises and two others were indicted in an investigation into a public contract between the Southern Ohio Port Authority and an out-of-state company for construction at the Southern Ohio Aeronautical Regional Business Park in the Portsmouth area, according to a news release from the Ohio Auditor of State’s Office.Cases against Robert Horton, who led the port authority and the Scioto County Economic Development Department, along with his wife are pending. Horton is accused of receiving kickbacks for a public contract Davis helped secure.As part of his guilty plea, Bryan Davis agreed to pay about $67,000 in restitution._________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Van High School ends football season after three games WCHS-TV 2026-09-17 | The sound of pads colliding and fans cheering on the Van High School Bulldogs will now be a thing of the past at Herschel Jarrell Field.School officials announced Wednesday the season would be discontinued after only three games.Van Principal Jennifer Dent said ultimately it came down to the safety of the 12 players on the roster."There was talk early on that we were kind of going to have to play it by ear, game by game, to see what was gonna happen," Dent said. "Ultimately, as the season wore on and some injuries were happening and things like that, it just became apparent that it was probably not going to be able to continue the season."Last year, the Bulldogs had to cancel the season due to a low turnout of players.With a little more interest this year, the season carried extra weight for the Bulldogs with the potential of their school closing looming on the horizon.Dent said even fielding a team is something to be proud of."Of course they wanted to take that opportunity and go," Dent said. "With the potential for closures of our school, they wanted to be that Bulldog team and make the community proud."While this season's fate has been sealed, Dent said what the small group of players were able to do will not be forgotten."It's hard to find teams to play that are equitable to the numbers that you have, so there's a lot of travel involved and I think that everyone in the community and in the school will be very proud of those students for doing what they did," Dent said.FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/van-high-school-ends-football-season-after-three-games_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Hundreds of West Virginia foster kids remain placed out-of-state despite overall drop WCHS-TV 2026-09-17 | September interims have wrapped up and the biggest topic still on the table is the state's troubled foster care system.The Department of Human Services reported to lawmakers that there are currently over 5,700 children in the foster care system. That's a decrease from the 7,000-plus that was reported back in 2020."In 2020, we hit the height and we have slowly been trending back down," West Virginia Bureau of Social Services Deputy Commissioner Kendra Boley Rogers told lawmakers on Monday.West Virginia is seeing a slight decrease in children in the foster care system, but hundreds are still in out-of-state placements."Between 2025 and 2026, we had a 5% decrease in the number of children in foster care placements during those point of times," Boley Rogers said.The West Virginia Department of Human Services credited those downward trending numbers in part to the state making headway with its substance use disorder crisis and reuniting children with their biological families.However, Sen. Brian Helton said he doesn't believe the decrease in overdose deaths is what has contributed to these numbers."The overdose rates are down due to some more self-harm reduction issues such as Narcan, such as these programs that focus on getting that out of the streets and also some of the reporting of overdose deaths has changed," Helton said. "I'm not so sure that's going anywhere. I don't know that the improvement that's really making a difference. I, for one, believe it's more of an issue of how we're handling these CPS cases as opposed to any improvement in the opioid epidemic."Helton said he believes we won't see a real change in the number of children being taken from their homes until more changes are made to the state's drug treatment program."Unfortunately we're still No. 1 in the nation in overdose deaths," he said. "We're No. 1 in the nation and children being taken from the home. I think, until we fix our drug treatment program, we probably shouldn't pat ourselves on the back and think we're doing a good job."Helton said they're looking at bills next session that focus on outcomes and results to ensure treatment programs are getting parents to a point of sobriety where they can keep their children."I'm hopeful our state keeps the foot on the pedal, that we continue to understand that we're not there yet and we have to get improvements," he said. "Otherwise the volume of the children are going to be continue to be high until we get that drug treatment program fixed."Helton said he believes its important to look back on some bills relating to foster care that didn't make it across the finish line last session and consider them next year.FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/september-interims-end-with-west-virginia-foster-care-system-still-a-top-issue_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Ed Sheeran controversy GROWS Lawmakers weigh in WCHS-TV 2026-09-16 | Swedish activist Greta Thunberg shared an Instagram post Wednesday telling Ed Sheeran that the Palestinian people are the "one victim here" after rapper Macklemore was dropped from the pop singer's tour for his pro-Palestinian comments on stage.thenationaldesk.com/news/americas-news-now/greta-thunberg-tells-ed-sheeran-the-palestinian-people-are-the-one-victim-here-macklemore-bds-gaza-west-bank-genocideFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Kash Patel’s Most Heated Moments From the FBI Oversight Hearing WCHS-TV 2026-09-16 | FBI Director Kash Patel appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday for an oversight hearing, his first appearance before Congress since clashing with lawmakers in May over allegations involving his drinking, travel and management of the bureau.In his opening statement, Patel defended his record, calling the FBI’s work under his leadership “the most prolific run of crime reduction in United States history.” He cited the nation’s 20-year low murder rate, arrests of violent offenders and gang members, fentanyl seizures and the capture of 10 people on the FBI’s most-wanted list.Read more: thenationaldesk.com/news/americas-news-now/director-kash-patel-to-face-senate-judiciary-committee-heat-over-fbi-departures-travel-and-president-donald-trump-era-probes-congress-capitol-hill-allegations-drinking-travel-doj-jet-staffing-changes-crime-stats#Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
New reports detail mounting costs six months into Iran war WCHS-TV 2026-09-16 | Six months into the war with Iran, two new government reports are offering the clearest picture yet of both the physical and financial costs of the conflict, raising fresh questions about military readiness and the price tag facing American taxpayers as the fighting drags on.A Pentagon Inspector General report released Monday, covering the first four months of Operation Epic Fury, included new details on munitions usage that paint a more complicated picture than the administration has previously offered. The report described "strategic inventory shortfalls" within the Pentagon's weapons stockpiles and noted that officials were working to "streamline procurement processes and production lead times" in an effort to rebuild supplies more quickly.Those findings stand in contrast to repeated assurances from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Pentagon spokespeople, who have insisted for months that munitions stockpiles were not a concern."That is a manufactured story that the media wants to pedal, and ultimately our stockpiles are great and they'll only get stronger," Hegseth told CBS' "Face the Nation" in June._________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
New York Times Gaza war coverage reflected bias against Israel: Report WCHS-TV 2026-09-16 | A new academic study alleges The New York Times’ early coverage of the war in Gaza showed bias against Israel by emphasizing Palestinian suffering and Israeli military actions while minimizing Hamas’ role and Israeli casualties.The study, published in the journal 'Studies in Conflict & Terrorism', reviewed 1,559 New York Times articles and concluded the paper’s reporting framed the conflict in a way that focused heavily on Palestinian suffering and Israeli military actions, while diminishing Hamas’ role and the toll on Israelis.Edieal Pinker of the Yale School of Management, who authored the study, told The National News Desk Tuesday that one effect of that approach is that it can make the violence appear one-sided.A new academic study alleges The New York Times’ early coverage of the war in Gaza showed bias against Israel by emphasizing Palestinian suffering and Israeli military actions while minimizing Hamas’ role and Israeli casualties.The study, published in the journal 'Studies in Conflict & Terrorism', reviewed 1,559 New York Times articles and concluded the paper’s reporting framed the conflict in a way that focused heavily on Palestinian suffering and Israeli military actions, while diminishing Hamas’ role and the toll on Israelis._________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
New cinema, entertainment center announced for Huntingtons Pullman Square WCHS-TV 2026-09-16 | A new movie theater and entertainment center is moving into Huntington’s Pullman Square.City officials announced Tuesday afternoon that ICON Cinemas will be taking over the movie theater space located at Pullman Square and will combine the moviegoing experience with bowling, gaming, food and beverage offerings and other entertainment under one roof. ICON said it anticipates opening in early summer 2027.The entertainment destination will also feature 10 lanes of duckpin bowling, a large arcade and redemption prize room, a beer and wine bar and ICON's signature Dolly's Daiquiris, according to a news release.Plans for the new ICON Cinemas location include laser projection, 7.1 and immersive surround sound, electric heated reclining chairs with food tables, two ICONIC Premium Large Format mega screens, an expanded concession menu and unlimited refills on core favorites including popcorn and drinks, the news release said.One of the cinemas will be Marshall-themed and stream the university’s football games.Huntington Mayor Patrick Farrell said the location will be the family-owned company’s 10th across the country and will include a multi-million dollar renovation of the space.Marquee Cinemas, which has occupied the space at Pullman Square since it opened. It is expected to end operations Thursday, Sept. 17 with Icon taking over Oct. 1.The project is also being supported through a partnership involving USDA Rural Development and Community Trust Bank.FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/new-cinema-entertainment-center-announced-for-huntingtons-pullman-square_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Campaign highlights abortion pills by mail in midst of West Virginias near total ban WCHS-TV 2026-09-16 | Women’s Health Center of West Virginia is partnering with Shout Your Abortion on a campaign aimed at informing residents about reproductive health care options, including medication abortion.“People deserve to have accurate information,” said Danielle Maness, the clinic’s provider and clinical director. “They deserve to have access to medical care and the ability to make decisions about their own bodies, about their futures.”Shout Your Abortion executive director Amelia Bonow said the organization began a similar campaign in Michigan to address a lack of nearby abortion clinics, even in areas with less restrictive abortion laws.“There’s no brick-and-mortar abortion clinics in the area,” Bonow said. “A lot of people are in that same situation of just assuming that if they experience an unwanted pregnancy, they’re going to have to get in the car and drive hundreds of miles.”The campaign promotes information about medication abortion, commonly known as the abortion pill. Bonow said patients may seek abortion pills by mail through telehealth providers in states with shield laws that protect providers who prescribe and send abortion medication to patients in states with restrictions.The issue remains contentious in West Virginia.Sen. Chris Rose, R-Monongalia, introduced legislation last year that he said would stop the “trafficking” of abortion pills into the state. Rose said he is concerned about pills being sent without parental consent or a medical provider’s involvement, as well as potential side effects.Medication abortion uses the drugs mifepristone and misoprostol. Maness said both medications have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for decades and are also used in miscarriage management and for other medical purposes.According to Planned Parenthood, complications from medication abortion are uncommon but can include infection or blood clots in the uterus.Maness said the medications are highly effective when used together for abortion care and rejected claims that they are inherently dangerous.“I believe that when we listen to people’s experiences and trust them to make their own decisions, we not only create healthier individuals, but we create healthier and more supportive communities,” Maness said.FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/campaign-highlights-abortion-pills-by-mail-as-wva-clinic-access-remains-limited_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
West Virginia lawmakers weigh future of aging coal plants as power demand grows WCHS-TV 2026-09-16 | West Virginia lawmakers are weighing how much to invest in keeping the state’s aging coal-fired power plants running as demand for electricity grows.Representatives from the Public Service Commission, FirstEnergy and Appalachian Power testified before the Joint Committee on Energy and Public Works Tuesday regarding the future of West Virginia’s coal plants and how they fit into the larger PJM regional power market.With demand expected to grow from data centers, Del. Mark Zatezalo, R-Hancock, said, “Chances are very good that we're going to need pretty much most of the electric generation that we have plus more.”The discussion came a day after the Environmental Protection Agency repealed most of the Biden-era greenhouse gas requirements. Those rules included carbon reduction plans for coal plants based on how long they planned to operate.Lawmakers raised concerns about the reliability of shifting federal policies.“Just because the Trump administration rolls back carbon regulations today doesn't mean that they're not going to be back sometime first.” Del. Evan Hansen, D-Monongalia, said. “I think the power companies need to understand that there's a move to address climate change and that includes cutting down on carbon emissions from power plants.”The PSC told lawmakers some plants are nearly 50 years old, and that maintenance will be needed as the state looks to keep them running longer. West Virginia’s current energy policy calls for allowing existing coal-fired power plants to remain operational through at least 2050.FirstEnergy said it has spent about $500 million over the past five years maintaining and upgrading its coal plants. The company is now studying what more would be needed to keep the Fort Martin and Harrison power stations operating beyond 2040.“Certainly, they can stay open if they're needed and the capital improvements are put in,” Zatezalo said.Hansen said the scale of the spending under consideration makes long-term planning critical.“These are big investments, multimillion and billion-dollar investments that need to be grounded in a realistic assessment of the future.” Hansen said. “It's going to depend on how climate change is addressed, and whether there are strict regulations on carbon emissions. The world and the country is generally moving in that direction, and it's something that the state of West Virginia needs to take serious notice of and not just assume that they're going to go away.”For customers, a central question is how much of the cost of upgrades and continued operation could end up on electric bills. Appalachian Power said federal grants are covering only about a third of the cost of the projects discussed.Zatezalo said federal assistance is tied to past federal policy decisions affecting coal plants.“I am not an economist, but there is some federal help required because it was federal policy which dictated that some of the inputs to coal-fired power plants would go away,” he said.Hansen said federal support does help customers now but questioned whether major new investments in coal are the best long-term choice if carbon rules return."Those are good for West Virginia ratepayers. But again, over the long term if these carbon regulations survive, large new coal power plants may not be the best decision for West Virginia ratepayers,” he said.The PSC also argued that maintaining the coal plants can save customers money when generating power in West Virginia costs less than buying it from the PJM market.The commission told lawmakers coal plants producing electricity for about $35 to $40 per megawatt-hour can be competitive when PJM prices are higher. It cited an average PJM market price of about $73 per megawatt-hour during the first six months of 2026, while noting that prices from PJM change significantly throughout the day.While there was agreement that West Virginia will need more power, lawmakers are still weighing how much to invest in the existing coal fleet and how those decisions fit into the state’s future energy mix. The full price tag for keeping some plants running beyond 2040 is still unknown.That leaves lawmakers to consider how much West Virginia should invest in aging coal plans and if those investments will make financial sense for customers decades into the future.FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/west-virginia-lawmakers-weigh-costly-upgrades-to-aging-coal-plants-to-meet-power-demand_________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Chicken Salad Chick makes WV debut; WV high school ends football season early WCHS-TV 2026-09-16 | What we're talking about this morning: Chicken Salad Chick makes its West Virginia debut, multiple are dead after a helicopter crash in Los Angeles and a WV high school ends its football season after only having 12 players.
Crane collapses and 4 are taken to hospital after incident WCHS-TV 2026-09-15 | A crane toppled onto several vehicles in Miami on Monday, sparking a fire and sending four people to the hospital. thenationaldesk.com/news/americas-news-now/at-least-4-injured-crane-collapses-miami-brickell-neighborhood-first-responders-florida-flames-smoke Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
AI fears rise as Trump pushes back on new guardrails WCHS-TV 2026-09-15 | Multiple former and current Anthropic researchers have been sounding the alarm bells about artificial intelligence, warning that the technology can destroy humanity.thenationaldesk.com/news/americas-news-now/anthropic-researchers-warn-artificial-intelligence-could-destroy-humanity-in-the-future-ai-openai-anthropicFacebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El Sayed faces backlash over Hasan Piker ties, 9:11 stance WCHS-TV 2026-09-15 | Abdul El-Sayed’s message marking 25 years since the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks has renewed scrutiny of the Michigan Democratic U.S. Senate candidate’s ties to left-wing Twitch streamer Hasan Piker, after El-Sayed declined over the weekend to distance himself from Piker.El-Sayed posted on social media Friday, writing in part, "Today on 9/11, we remember and honor the lives that were taken from us in a terrible act of terrorism. Nothing can justify the murder of innocent civilians. Nothing."The post drew backlash as critics pointed to El-Sayed’s association with Piker, who has appeared at some of his campaign events and has been criticized for previously saying America deserved the 9/11 attacks.In an interview over the weekend, El-Sayed pushed back when questioned about why he has not directly condemned Piker’s rhetoric._________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Former FBI official reflects on intelligence failures before 9:11 and what changed after WCHS-TV 2026-09-15 | Twenty-five years after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the warning signs that preceded them remain a central lesson for America's intelligence community.Before 9/11, U.S. intelligence agencies possessed separate pieces of information about al-Qaida, possible threats involving aviation and suspicious activity at American flight schools. But critical information was not always shared across agencies, preventing officials from seeing the full picture before terrorists hijacked four commercial airplanes and killed nearly 3,000 people.Speaking with The National News Desk, veteran FBI Special Agent in Charge and former Chicago Police Superintendent Jody Weis said the information existed, but determining whether officials could have stopped the attacks remains more complicated."Hindsight is always 20/20," Weis said._________________________________________Follow WCHS on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharlestonTwitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.comSign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
Huntington officials make announcement regarding Pullman Square WCHS-TV 2026-09-15 | Watch as Huntington officials make an announcement regarding Pullman Square. wchstv.com
