Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of July.
Good morning, Lynchburg.
On July 13th, 2025, Amherst County Sheriff's investigator Brian Escher was arrested after deputies responded to a domestic violence call at a home and determined he was the primary aggressor—he was released on bond with a protective order issued.
VDOT said several roads in Lynchburg and Franklin County are closed due to flooding — officials advise drivers to use caution while updates are pending.
Flooding that began yesterday closed several roads in the Lynchburg region—especially in Halifax County—and crews are working to reopen them while drivers are urged to take extra care.
Lynchburg City Council is considering rule changes that would require councilmembers to remain on the dais during public comment—any contact with the public would need majority approval.
Vice Mayor Curt Diemer and colleagues proposed the update after recent meeting incidents, and the council will discuss the proposals again on Aug. 26.
On July 16, Delegate Walker presented 13-year-old DJ Daniel, who is battling brain and spine cancer, with an honorary Sheriff Captain certificate on behalf of Lynchburg law enforcement (he also received a badge and plaque) in Washington, D.C.
He invited him to visit Lynchburg to share his hope and determination in fighting his illness.
The city announced that Main Street to Pearl Street will be closed starting Monday as construction crews begin the final phase of the Downtown Renewal Project downtown, and the closure will last 10 months.
City staff said drivers coming off Route 29 can still enter downtown using Main Street but must use 11th or 12th Streets to exit to the expressway.
Prevention specialists warned yesterday that smart vapes—new devices with tracking features—may raise health risks among young users in Lynchburg.
The Virginia Commonwealth Games will bring final sports events to Lynchburg this weekend with 13 events set across Liberty University and other venues, featuring 3,500 to 5,000 athletes and 1,000 volunteers.
A parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Friday in an indoor football practice facility—organizers have secured backup venues to handle any bad weather.
Giant Bubble Show
3-4 p.m. — Joy & Lynch Christian Warehouse Theatre — $23–$27 — Enjoy a captivating performance featuring circus stunts and incredible bubble artistry.
Surfing Santa Christmas In July Paint and Sip
6-8 p.m. — The Yellow Submarine — Cost of painting supplies included — Create a festive masterpiece of Santa surfing in a tropical atmosphere.
Hadestown - Teen Edition
2:00 – 3:30 PM — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — VIP packages available — Experience the magic of Hadestown reimagined for teens with premium seats and exclusive perks.
The Last of Lucy Concert
6-11 p.m. — Super Rad Arcade Bar — All ages — Enjoy an evening with The Last of Lucy and Pathogenic during the GODFORM SUMMER TOUR 2025.
Soul, Rhythm, & Boots Festival
2-11 p.m. — Lynchburg City Stadium Football Field — Free entry — A celebration of music and community with soulful tunes and dancing.
Travis Reigh Live Performance
8 PM – 10 PM — The Music Hall — $15 – $18 — Experience the captivating sounds of Travis Reigh, a rising country artist with emotional storytelling.
Face the Forest 5k Obstacle Course Run
7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest — Cost info not specified — Challenge yourself with a thrilling obstacle course in a scenic environment.
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