Brush fire scorches WV State Park

West Virginia state seal. Used by written permission by Chief Deputy and Chief of Staff of West Virginia Chuck Flannery

A fast-moving brush fire that scorched 4 acres at Cacapon Resort State Park after a dangerous battle against the elements on New Year’s Eve.

The fire broke out on December 30  in difficult terrain, fueled by powerful wind gusts reaching up to 55 miles per hour.

According to the Washington County Division of Emergency Services Firefighters faced extreme conditions as the wind pushed flames through thick brush.

A coordinated effort between volunteer crews from West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland stopped the fire before it could spread further.

Officials have confirmed the blaze was sparked by downed power lines.

Crews remained on-site overnight to cut containment lines and douse hot spots to prevent a reignition.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

State park officials say the incident is a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can turn dangerous during high-wind events.

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WPD files charges in New Year’s Eve incident

lorenzo wheeler homicide

The Winchester Police Department has filed charges against a juvenile involved in a shots-fired incident on New Year’s Eve.

Officers responded just before midnight to a location on West Jubal Early Drive.

Investigators determined it was an isolated incident and quickly located the juvenile, who is not a city resident.

The individual faces several charges, including brandishing a firearm, robbery, and reckless handling of a firearm.

Fortunately, there were no injuries or property damage.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Winchester Police Department at 540-662-4131. You can also remain anonymous by using the link www.p3tips.com/980.

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Old Town Winchester hosting 2025 New Year’s Eve celebration

Date: Tuesday, December 31st
​Time: 1:30 p.m. to Midnight
Location:  Old Town Winchester, Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601

Kickoff New Year’s Eve starting at 1:30 p.m. in Old Town Winchester. Enjoy a live Jazz concert, drop in for dinner at one of our fine dining establishments and take in a spectacular Laser Light Show and Glow Zone in the heart of historic Old Town Winchester.

  • FREE parking in Old Town through New Year’s Day!
  • 1:30 FREE James Wood High School Jazz Band performance in the Grand Ball Room at The George Washington Hotel
  • ​Enjoy dinner, live music and entertainment at various businesses in Old Town Winchester​
  • 6:00 pm to Midnight FREE Neon Nights & Laser Light Shows at Old Courthouse Civil War Museum
  • 7:00 to 10:00 pm Street performers including jugglers and magicians
  • Midnight Apple Drop at intersection of Loudoun and Boscawen Streets

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Inaugural First Night Middletown deemed a success

The inaugural First Night Middletown was deemed a success after raising over $2,500 for the Winchester Model Railroad Club.

The evening included musical performances and children’s activities as well as a silent auction including Mort Kunstler prints, signed Washington Commanders items, local gift cards, and more.

Money raised from the auctions contributed to the fundraising efforts towards Winchester Model Railroad Club’s new headquarters which is relocating to Middletown.

The Town and Club are already over halfway to their goal of $200,000.

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Middletown announces New Year’s plans

The Town of Middletown announced their new family friendly event, First Night Middletown.

The celebration will take place at the Town Office on New Years Eve from 6 pm – 9 pm.

The event is in partnership with the Winchester Model Railroad Club which is moving their headquarters to Middletown and helping to rebuild the B&O Railroad Station.

Visitors will get a glimpse at the new station as the top floor of the office will feature model, operating railroad layouts.

There will also be kids activities, magical performances from Kevin Owens and live music.

Old Town Winchester announced earlier this year that their annual First Night celebration will no longer take place.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.