Menard Volunteer Fire Department

06/05/2026

On May 29th, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office received a request to conduct a welfare check at an individual’s home in Cana, Virginia. When two deputies arrived and made contact with male, he opened fire on both of them. 31-year old Deputy Sheriff Logan Utt was fatally wounded in the exchange. The second deputy was injured after being struck in his ballistic vest. The gunman fled the scene and after a 2-day manhunt, was apprehended in North Carolina. He has since been charged with murder.

Logan’s commitment to serving others began while he was a student at Carroll County High School when he joined the Cana Volunteer Fire Dept. He remained a proud and active member throughout his life. Following graduation, Logan answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S Air Force. After completing his military service, he continued his dedication to public safety as a firefighter with the Mount Airy Fire Dept. for several years.

Alongside these accomplishments, Logan never lost sight of his lifelong dream of becoming a law enforcement officer in the community he called home. That dream became a reality in December 2023, when he was sworn in as a Deputy with the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office. From that day forward, he proudly served and protected the citizens of Carroll County with honor, courage, and integrity.

Logan was known for his contagious smile, larger-than-life personality, and caring spirit. He never met a stranger and was always willing to give his time to help others. Whether offering a helping hand, sharing a laugh, or simply listening, Logan made everyone feel welcomed and valued. He was also a devoted Christian and a man of deep faith, who loved the Lord and sought to live his life in service to others.

Logan leaves behind a loving wife, two children and many family members who miss him dearly. He will be laid to rest later today.

05/26/2026

05/26/2026 1 PM: quick update on storm timing. Some hit and miss storms are developing around San Angelo, but the main line out to the west near Ozona and Sterling City at 1 PM will push east into San Angelo, Sweetwater, and Eldorado by around 2 PM. The line will then continue east towards Abilene, Eden, and Sonora between 3 and 4 PM. So far these storms are remaining below severe levels, but they may strengthen as they move across West Central Texas.

Even if they don't become severe, heavy rainfall, dangerous lightning, and gusty winds will be likely.

05/26/2026

Slight Risk across Southwest Texas tomorrow!

Fort Stockton special tomorrow? Large hail, damaging winds are the main hazards, however a couple of tornadoes can’t be ruled completely out across Southwest Texas Tuesday afternoon (May 26).

05/24/2026

05/22/2026

A Hero’s Fight: Belmont Firefighter Katherine Paige Battles for Recovery After Tragic Explosion
The community of Belmont, Maine, is rallying around one of its own after a devastating silo explosion at a local lumber mill left beloved firefighter Katherine Paige with life-changing injuries.
Katherine, a dedicated volunteer firefighter, was critically injured in the blast. She is currently on a breathing tube at Maine Medical Center in Portland and faces a long, difficult road ahead, including multiple surgeries and skin grafts.
Just last year, Katherine was named Firefighter of the Year for her outstanding service and commitment. For the Paige family, firefighting is more than a calling — it’s a family tradition. Katherine, her husband Paul, and their daughter all volunteer with the Belmont and Northport fire departments, serving their community with courage and heart.
As news of her condition spread, support poured in quickly. More than $10,000 has already been raised to help Katherine and her family through what will be a challenging recovery journey.
Katherine’s story is a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice so many first responders make every day — often in their own communities, often with their own families waiting at home.
To Katherine: You are stronger than you know. Keep fighting, warrior. The same courage that earned you Firefighter of the Year is the same courage that will carry you through this battle.
To Paul, their daughter, and the entire family: Our hearts are with you during this incredibly difficult time. May the love and support from your community give you strength as you stand beside Katherine.
The road to recovery will be long, but Katherine Paige will not walk it alone. The people of Belmont, Maine, and first responders across the country are standing with her.
Please keep Katherine Paige and her family in your thoughts and prayers. Send healing energy to this brave firefighter who has given so much to others.
We are all rooting for you, Katherine. Get well soon.
🇺🇸🙏❤️

05/22/2026

05/19/2026

05/19/2026