Good morning, Blacksburg.

Local police arrested 11 individuals yesterday in connection with a homicide case—authorities said the arrests are part of an ongoing investigation.

The murders of Virginia Tech students David Metzler and Heidi Childs in the Caldwell Fields area near Blacksburg in 2009 remain unsolved — investigators are following up on leads with a new state police cold case website and a $100,000 reward.

Austin Blake Hixon, 36, of Christiansburg was sentenced to 86 months in prison for his role in a pawn shop gun theft—he had pleaded guilty to possessing stolen firearms and perjury, making him the final co-conspirator sentenced in the break-in that occurred on November 1st.

On Sept. 1, 2025, Virginia Tech Police reported a sexual assault at Whitehurst Hall—an incident involving a Virginia Tech student and an acquaintance that meets the elements of sexual battery and abduction.

Kiki Valera y su Son Cubano will perform a free outdoor concert on Friday, Sept.

5 at 6 p.m. at the Center for the Arts’ Patricia Buckley Moss Lawn — he will also lead a music workshop with Virginia Tech student percussionists for local community members.

Montgomery County Supervisors approved funding for a new armored SWAT vehicle, adopted the New River Valley Hazard Mitigation Plan 2025, and approved a voter satellite office at the Blacksburg Community Center in a 4—3 vote during their Aug.

25 meeting. The board will assume control of the Montgomery County Public Service Authority on Oct. 1 and passed resolutions on opioid settlements, property tax relief, and National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

Virginia Tech has been awarded a $611,861 research grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to study the Aedes aegypti mosquito—an insect that spreads yellow fever and Zika virus.

The project will improve our understanding of the mosquito for better public health measures.

September General Book Club

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Moon Hollow Brewing Company — 10% off drinks — Discuss Tiffany McDaniel’s captivating novel, Betty, in a cozy brewery setting.

Hokie Half Marathon and 5K

6:00 PM — Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center — Registration fee applies — Lace up for a scenic run through beautiful Blacksburg with the Hokies.