Biden declares a major disaster for West Virginia counties affected by floods and a local school welcome a new furry friend to their pack: Here’s a look back at this week’s top stories

( WTRF ) – Biden declares a major disaster for West Virginia counties affected by floods, and a local school welcomes a new furry friend to their pack.

7News Anchor Annalise Murphy looks back at the week’s top stories.

Police release names and charges for the suspects involved in a high-speed chase on Ohio Interstate 70

The Ohio State Highway Patrol released the names of the suspects and their charges after a high-speed chase on Interstate 70 in Ohio.

The driver, Jamey Friend, and passenger, Deidra Hines, were both arrested.

Both are facing charges of Tampering with evidence, Receiving Stolen Property (Vehicle was allegedly stolen from Parkersburg), Possession of drugs, obstructing official business, Failure to comply with law enforcement, and Illegal use and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Both are currently in the Belmont County Jail.

Biden declares a major disaster in West Virginia following flooding

President Joe Biden officially approved a major disaster declaration in the state of West Virginia, ordering federal assistance to areas affected by the storms and flooding from April 2 to April 6 of this year.

This would provide FEMA funding to those impacted in Ohio, Marshall, and Wetzel counties, which are only three of the 11 counties granted in the state.

The White House states that assistance can include grants for temporary housing, home repairs, uninsured property losses, and programs to help individuals and business owners recover.

Hotel, Dining, retail, and event center plans to open in West Virginia in 2026

A $63 Million project will see parts of downtown Wheeling transform into a hotel, dining, retail, and event center.

Vol For Life, an LLC led by Wheeling entrepreneur Barry Allen, announced plans for a transformative multi-use development project on Tuesday.

The project is currently in the design phase.

Plans and renderings depict a vibrant complex featuring a 122-room hotel, a spacious 2,600 square-foot event center, dedicated retail space, residential living units, and a captivating rooftop bar and entertainment area boasting stunning views of the Ohio River.

The project is expected to be completed by 2026.

Newest Friend with Paws rolls over for New Martinsville students

About two dozen West Virginia schools have a Friend with Paws thanks to the state’s therapy dog program, and those pawprints made their way to Wetzel County this week!

As 7News Reporter Colin Roose reported, there were barks of excitement as a Labrador retriever walked through the gym and into the hearts of the K through 8 students Wednesday.

Molly is the school’s newest resident, a nine-month-old puppy whose primary responsibilities will be comforting, playing, and even boosting language skills.

Market Street Bridge is back open in Wheeling (wtrf.com)

Good news for drivers who travel through Wheeling – the Market Street Bridge has officially reopened.

Officials say the bridge needed to be completely replaced after a fire from a homeless camp caused serious damage.

More details on these stories are available by clicking on the links above, which will take you directly to the original article.

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