Star News Bassett, VA

20/06/2026

UPDATE: Kayakers Located Safe on Smith River

HENRY COUNTY, Va. — An effort by Henry County Public Safety to locate a group of people kayaking on the Smith River has ended with good news.

Henry County Sheriff Wayne Davis told Star News that contact has been made with the group and that everyone is safe.

According to Davis, public safety personnel are now working to guide the kayakers out of the area.

The search began after concerns were raised about the group's location on the river, prompting a response from emergency personnel. Officials have not reported any injuries or medical emergencies.

Authorities said the situation remains active as crews assist the group in safely exiting the river. More information will be released if it becomes available.

30/05/2026

30/05/2026

https://youtu.be/aAuIWTUOewU

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

22/05/2026

Congratulations, Bassett Bengals Class of 2026! 💙🧡

26/04/2026

Patrick Springs — Crews Respond to Multiple Brush Fires, Burn Ban Reminder Issued

Fire crews in the Patrick Springs area have been stretched thin over the past several days as they responded to multiple brush fires across the county, prompting officials to remind residents of an active burn ban.

Emergency responders in Patrick Springs, Virginia and throughout Patrick County, Virginia have worked back-to-back calls as dry conditions and gusty winds increased the risk of fires spreading quickly. While no major injuries have been reported, officials say the incidents highlight the ongoing danger posed by outdoor burning during current conditions.

Authorities are urging residents to follow the burn ban strictly, noting that even small fires can rapidly get out of control. The ban prohibits open burning, including debris piles, yard waste, and other outdoor fires that could ignite surrounding brush.

Fire officials emphasized that compliance is critical to protecting homes, property, and first responders.

“This is a reminder of the burn ban—stay safe,” officials said in a public message following the recent surge in calls.

Residents are encouraged to report any signs of fire immediately and to take precautions such as properly disposing of ci******es, avoiding activities that create sparks, and staying aware of local emergency updates.

With conditions expected to remain dry, crews remain on alert and prepared to respond as needed.

26/04/2026

Community Mourns Loss of Charles Edward Williams, Jr., Prominent Auctioneer and Philanthropist
HENRY COUNTY, Va. — Charles Edward Williams, Jr., a well-known businessman and community supporter, passed away early this morning at the age of 75.
Williams was best known for operating Williams Auction Co., a successful auction business that served the region for many years. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was widely recognized for his generosity, contributing to numerous nonprofits and charitable causes throughout the community.
His impact was recently honored when he received the prestigious Jack Dalton Award, one of Henry County’s highest recognitions for service and leadership.
Friends and family also celebrated Williams not long ago at a birthday gathering hosted by Debra Buchanan, where more than 300 people attended—an indication of the many lives he touched.
Williams is remembered as a dedicated businessman, a generous supporter of the community, and a friend to many. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Wright Funeral Service and Crematory

09/04/2026

Human Remains Found in Rockingham County Quarry; Investigation Underway

ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP) — Authorities in Rockingham County are investigating after human remains were discovered in a rock quarry, according to the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office.

Officials say the investigation began after the Reidsville Police Department received a tip regarding possible human remains in the water at a quarry located off U.S. 29 Business.

During a search of the area, authorities confirmed that human remains were located and recovered from the body of water.

The remains have been sent to the North Carolina Medical Examiner’s Office, where officials will work to determine the identity of the individual, as well as the cause and manner of death.

No additional details have been released at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.

04/04/2026

HENRY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE SEEKS PUBLIC’S HELP IN LOCATING MISSING WOMAN
April 3, 2026
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s assistance in locating a missing 19-year-old woman, Marissa Raquel Dickerson.
On April 3, 2026, Charles Padgett reported that his sister, Marissa Dickerson, left her residence located at 63 Coopers Ct. Martinsville, Va, on March 31, 2026, and has not been heard from since. According to Mr. Padgett, Marissa had been communicating with a female identified only as “Amber” through Facebook. Marissa told her brother that she planned on meeting Amber on March 31 to spend time together.
Since that date, there has been no further communication with Marissa. Additionally, her Facebook account has since been made private.
At this time, there is limited information available regarding Amber, including her identity or any vehicle she may be operating.
Marissa Dickerson is described as a white female, approximately 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighing around 130 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. She has a tattoo on her left hand bearing the name “Ray.”
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information regarding Marissa Dickerson’s whereabouts to come forward to help ensure her well-being.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Henry County Sheriff’s Office at 276-638-8751 or Crime Stoppers at 63-CRIME (632-7463). The Crime Stoppers Program offers rewards of up to $2,500 for information related to criminal activity. The amount of the reward is determined by the nature of the crime and the value of the information provided.

03/04/2026

sold a lot of 'em 🌭
54,377 to be exact at the last race!

02/04/2026

PHILLIPS’ INFLUENCE ON THE RISE WITH KEY COMMISSION APPOINTMENT

The political influence of Del. Eric Phillips appears to be growing following his recent appointment to the Virginia To***co Region Revitalization Commission — a powerful body that helps direct millions in funding across Virginia.

Selected by House Speaker Don Scott, Phillips’ new role places him in a key position to help shape economic development efforts throughout Southern and Southwest Virginia. The commission, funded through the 1998 national to***co settlement, has long been a major driver of investment in rural communities transitioning from the decline of to***co-related industries.

With oversight of grants supporting infrastructure, workforce development, broadband expansion, and business growth, the commission gives its members significant input into how funds are distributed — and where projects take shape.

Phillips said he is honored to take on the role and is focused on advancing opportunities for families and businesses in his district and beyond.

Political observers note that appointments like this are often seen as a sign of growing influence, giving lawmakers a stronger voice in regional priorities and access to resources that can directly benefit their constituents.

As Phillips steps into the position, many across Southside Virginia will be watching to see how his role on the commission translates into future investments and development across the region.