School locked down, student in custody

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor Lincolnview Local Schools administrators, the school resource officer, and local law enforcement officials have confirmed an incident involving a student who made a threatening comment toward another student. It happened Tuesday afternoon. No weapons were involved on school property, and no physical injury occurred.  According to a statement released by Lincolnview Local […]

Students honored at awards luncheon

VW independent staff/submitted information Van Wert High School recently recognized the academic achievements of 151 students by presenting them with Academic Awards for the 2024-2025 school year. This honor is awarded to students who maintain exceptional academic performance and demonstrate their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. As students progress through high school, the coursework […]

More travelers or fewer travelers?

VW independent staff/submitted information When it comes to travel for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday period, there seems to be a difference of opinion. While AAA predicts record numbers of travelers (81.8 million, including 3.4 million Ohioans) will head out for the holiday, most by car, GasBuddy says otherwise. According to GasBuddy, fewer Americans plan to […]

U.S. 30 accident…

This semi-truck wound up in a rather unnatural position in the median along U.S. 30, near Ohio 49. The accident occurred at approximately 3:20 p.m. Tuesday, when the truck left the inside lane of westbound 30, drove into the median about 200 feet and hit a residential median crossover. It then continued west in the […]

Four spectacular shows planned

By Quincy Thompson Van Wert LIVE is turning up the spotlight in 2026 with a dynamic lineup of live entertainment that promises something for everyone. From world-class tributes to powerhouse performances, the Niswonger Performing Arts Center is set to shine bright!  Our first show announcement is for Sunday, March 1, with Celtic Angels Ireland, bringing the […]

Linda M. (Waldron) Jeknavorian

Linda M. (Waldron) Jeknavorian, 84, of Van Wert, a very loved and devoted wife, mom, grandma and servant to her Savior, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. She was born July 1, 1941, in Van Wert, to Arthur and Lelia (Harvey) Waldron. Linda graduated from Van Wert High School […]

Sally Ann Walton

Sally Ann Walton, 84, of Carey passed away peacefully Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Heritage Manor, Findlay. Sally was born on March 9, 1941, in Van Wert, to Alexander “Boot” and Mary Elizabeth “Betty” (Fergus) Stewart, who both preceded her in death.  Sally was a 1959 graduate of Van Wert High School. During her […]

Outage affects 4,300+ AEP customers

VW independent staff A power outage affected a sizable area of Van Wert on Tuesday. According to AEP Ohio, the outage occurred at approximately 11:15 a.m. More than 4,300 AEP Ohio customers in the Van Wert area lost power for two hours. The lights came back on at 1:15 p.m., according to an AEP Ohio […]

Hugh Edward “Eddie” Jones

Hugh Edward “Eddie” Jones, a man deeply devoted to his family, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the young age of 56. Eddie was born on October 27, 1969, in Van Wert,  to Hugh W. and Darlene (Baker) Jones. For 37 years, Eddie was a dedicated employee at Danfoss (formerly Aeroquip/Eaton) and […]

VWCO Sheriff’s activity log 11/17/2025

Monday, November 17, 2025 12:48 a.m. – Deputies responded to an area of Main Street in the Village of Convoy for a report of two loose dogs. 4:12 a.m. – Deputies responded to a location on South Washington Street in the City of Van Wert to assist the Van Wert Police Department. 6:40 a.m. – […]