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Man who killed his girlfriend’s baby is set to be Florida’s eighth execution of 2026
STARKE, Fla. (AP) — A Florida man who confessed to killing his girlfriend’s infant daughter and throwing her…
After several artists drop out of Freedom 250 concerts, Vanilla Ice says he'd "play for anybody" including Putin and Iran
After several artists dropped out of a Washington, D.C., concert series organized by Freedom 250, rapper Vanilla Ice said he will still be on the bill, telling CBS News on Monday he would perform for anyone, including Russian President Vladimir Putin or…
Valuable paintings, musical instruments stolen from Georgia storage unit facility, police say
Chatham County detectives say they are continuing to search for nearly $100,000 worth of paintings, musical instruments, and other…
Lab worker who vanished last year found dead in New Mexico national forest
Remains found in a New Mexico national forest have been identified as those of Melissa Casias, a worker at the Los Alamos National Laboratory who disappeared last year, authorities announced over the…
Police in Iowa say they think man shot and killed 6 relatives, then himself
Muscatine, Iowa — Authorities in Iowa are investigating the fatal shootings of six people they believe were killed by a relative who took his own life when confronted by police. Preliminary findings by police indicated a domestic dispute led to the…
One rescued from overturned vehicle
The Signal Mountain Fire Department Red Shift responded to a reported motor vehicle collision with unknown injuries on June 1, 2026. They say upon arrival, crews found a two-vehicle crash with one patient trapped inside a vehicle that had…
Local feature film 'Set Free' to debut on the red carpet this weekend
RINGGOLD, Ga. (WDEF) - Cast and crew of the local film 'Set Free' came by the News 12 studio to share their experiences working on set. Rayna Wilson 'Kayla,' Logan Polson 'Tyler,'…
Looking for a nice and slow place to hang out on Sunday?
CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) - Looking for a great place to hang on a Sunday? The real estate platform Calgary.com asked three thousand people for an easy-going place to spend their off day. The place coming in at #28 is Chattanooga's Northshore.…
Olympic Weightlifting Gold Medalist Olivia Reeves Preparing For U.S National Championships
Chattanooga-(WDEF-TV) Chattanooga weightlifter Olivia Reeves set multiple records on her way to winning Olympic gold in 2024. Now Reeves is ramping up her training again. She'll compete this month in the U.S. National Championship [blox_vms account="WDEF" key="678a4e4639f88e9a725832bda361f72dcaf65625" vtitle="Weightlifting Gold Medalist…
Texas Beats Tennessee Twice to Eliminate Lady Vols From College World Series
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Teagan Kavan pitched a complete-game two-hitter and defending-champion Texas advanced to the championship series of the Women’s College World Series, defeating Tennessee 4-0 on Monday in their second matchup of the day. The second-seeded Longhorns (51-12),…
Kick Off Times Announced For CFB Playoff Games
(press release) The College Football Playoff (CFP), ESPN and TNT Sports have announced kick times and broadcast information for the 2026-27 CFP. The home of the CFP since its inception in 2015, ESPN is in the first year of its…
Pops on the River returns as part of Chattanooga's Independence Day celebrations
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - As Chattanooga continues preparing for Independence Day festivities, organizers say the annual Pops on the River celebration is officially moving…
Hamilton County announces United 250 Drone Show for Independence Day celebration
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - In partnership with the City of Chattanooga, Hamilton County Parks and Recreation has announced its upcoming "United 250" drone show as…
BAPS Charities hosts Inaugural Walkathon in Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, BAPS Charities launched its 2026 Spirit of Service Walk-Run at Coolidge Park, raising money for Children's Hospital…
Northwest Georgia Filmmaker earns People's Choice Award for 'Set Free' trailer
NORTHWEST, Ga. (WDEF) - Northwest Georgia is quickly becoming a hub for local filmmakers, and one director is gaining national recognition for his latest project.…
Residents react to Ketner's Mill closing public access
MARION COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF)- "People are losing a lot. Memories, being able to take their kids to places they once got to go to with their families and enjoy." For decades,…
Depression among Hamilton County teens on the rise
Content warning: The topic of suicide is discussed in this story. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The state of the mental health of Hamilton County teenagers was discussed at this month’s Hamilton…
Depression among Hamilton County teens on the rise
Content warning: The topic of suicide is discussed in this story. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The state of the mental health of Hamilton County teenagers was discussed at this month’s Hamilton…
Women in Travel summit held in Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- "These are very well traveled people. They've been to a lot of different places and it takes a lot to surprise them." Hundreds of travel content creators and influencers…
Chattanooga officers wrangle escaped donkeys
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- Police and Sheriff's deputies thwarted an equestrian escape earlier this week. A pair of donkeys were spotted by a 911 caller roaming along the area of Morris…
Mayor Wamp discusses Hamilton Counted report
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- How is Hamilton County doing on key issues? New data released is painting that picture. Hamilton Counted is an initiative that tracks various issues across the county…
Lookouts partnering with Tivoli Foundation to bring concerts to Erlanger Park
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Take me out to the… concert. That’s what many Chattanoogans might soon be singing in relation to Chattanooga’s newest venue. The Chattanooga Lookouts made a joint announcement…
McKamey Animal Center is far over capacity, asking for the public's help
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- McKamey Animal Shelter is facing a crisis. The Animal Shelter currently has over 600 animals within its walls, which is far more than they can handle alone. McKamey is asking for volunteers, foster carers, and people…
EPB says they're prepared for coming storms
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- As storms are expected to continue this week, power outages could still happen. EPB says they’re prepared for anything that comes. With the ground saturated with water, trees could easily fall and disrupt power lines EPB…
Mayor Wamp unveils FY 2027 budget for Hamilton County
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- With the end of the fiscal year coming soon, Hamilton County must adopt a new budget. Mayor Weston Wamp unveiled his proposal Wednesday afternoon. The mayor’s budget…
Erlanger breaks ground on East expansion
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- A groundbreaking took place Wednesday at Erlanger’s East Campus on Gunbarrel Road. The new facility will feature an expanded patient tower, allowing for extra beds. Patient rooms will be upgraded with viewscreens so that patients are…
Councilmember compares affordable housing proposal to "plantation mentality"
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- One Chattanooga city council member is likening a proposal tackling affordable housing to a quote “plantation mentality”. Councilwoman Marvene Noel made those remarks during a…
Swift waters causing concern after child drowns in Soddy-Daisy
SODDY-DAISY, Tenn. (WDEF)- A group…
Resolution to create rural tourism zone pulled
HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF)- A resolution that could have changed zoning regulations around Hamilton County Parks has been pulled. That resolution would have created rural…
What's Right With Our Schools: Normal Park Regatta
CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) - Students at Normal Park Middle School recently completed one of their biggest projects of the year. The kids built boats out of cardboard and…
Local veteran nominated for national fundraiser
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) Jimmy Grimes is a local veteran who was recently nominated for the 50 States 50 Veterans Gofundme campaign. The campaign was started by an Australian philanthropic…
TWRA Urges safe and sober boating this holiday weekend
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- As memorial day approaches, the TWRA is urging boaters to be safe. With the holiday, we can expect more boats than usual on…
CARTA warns Incline Railway could close if Lookout Mountain ordinance passes
LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, Tenn. (WDEF)- "These are absolutely stunning developments." The Incline Railway is at the center of a brewing controversy between the Chattanooga Area Regional…
Detective gets officer of the year award for work on child sex abuse cases
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- A Hamilton…
School board candidates debate issues in Hixson as they vie to replace Joe Smith
From left to right: Sandy Pricer (I), Dr. Ruth Walker (D), and Ashley Dillon (R), the three candidate…
Fans to get opportunity to see Spain train in open practice session before World Cup
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- With the American…
HCSO Criminal Investigations Unit Detective receives Respect for Law Officer of the Year Award
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- The Hamilton County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) along with the Scenic Chattanooga Optimist Club have announced that Criminal Investigations Unit Detective Karigan Scoggins will receive "Respect for Law Officer of the Year Award." They say Detective Scoggins has…
Traffic at a standstill southbound in Bradley County due to crash
BRADLEY COUNTY -- All lanes are blocked on I-75 southbound in Bradley County due to a multi-vehicle crash near mile marker 19.4, according to TDOT. We are working to learn more.
TOSHA investigating Amaero plant explosion, experts say this is reminder of dangers of lithium batteries.
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- A state agency says they are beginning their investigation into an explosion at a Bradley County plant Wednesday . TOSHA says they began that investigation Thursday morning after two people suffered severe burns from a lithium battery…
Craig Liner pleads guilty to 2025 murder of ex-wife
UPDATE: Craig Liner has pleaded guilty of the 2025 killing of his ex-wife Karen Liner and has been sentenced to life in prison. Liner…
What's Right With Our Schools: Cleveland High Best Buddy Program
CLEVELAND, TN (WDEF) - A new organization at Cleveland High School got off to a strong star this year. The Best Buddies Club is a student…
BCSO warns of scam claiming individuals owe money for traffic offense
BRADLEY COUNTY -- The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is warning locals of a scam involving claims that individuals owe money for a traffic offense. They say message may include what looks like an official court document and it…
Multi-vehicle wreck causing major backups in Bradley County near MM 19
Traffic is moving extremely slow due to a multi-vehicle crash on I-75 southbound near Mile Marker 19 in Bradley County. TDOT says the southbound left lane (of 2 lanes) blocked, left shoulder blocked. Delays are expected.
Bradley County passes strict new regulations against data centers
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- "Because I care much about this child and what you guys are voting, (me speaking is for) this gal right here." Tyler Ownby, holding…
Rumored data center sparks concerns in Bradley County
BRADLEY COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF)- Data centers have continued to stir debate all across the country. Now, numerous residents say they are nervous that one could be coming to…
Golden Apple Award: Madison Limburg, Walker Valley High
CLEVELAND, TN (WDEF) - Madison Limburg is a proven teacher at Walker Valley High. Her course load incudes English Language Arts and Journalism. She has also served as…
Bradley Central High School teacher misconduct allegations prompts investigation
BRADLEY COUNTY -- An investigation is underway following allegations of misconduct by a Bradley Central High School teacher. Bradley County Schools says they became aware of allegations of serious misconduct involving…
Identity sought for man stealing cameras from Bradley County property
BRADLEY COUNTY -- The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is seeking the identity of a man who they say was seen removing and taking the cameras from a property. They say On…
Atlanta area woman charged in Bradley County fraud scheme
BRADLEY COUNTY -- An Atlanta area woman has been charged after a Bradley County resident became the subject of fraud. According to the Bradley County Sheriff's Office, on April 3, 2026, a…
Golden Apple Award, Jordan Reeves, E.L. Ross Elementary
CLEVELAND, TN (WDEF) - The best teachers make learning fun. Jordan Reeves has a gift for doing just that, and her students' test scores continue to climb, and…
Bradley Co. Sheriff's Office increasing traffic enforcement near schools, bus routes
The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) says it will be increasing traffic enforcement in issue-prone areas such as school zones and bus routes. "Speeding in these areas is dangerous and unacceptable. Drivers should slow down…
Golden Apple Award: Alexis Kaczor, Oak Grove Elementary
CLEVELAND, TN (WDEF) - Did you ever have a teacher who made you love going to school. For students at Oak Grove Elementary, Alexis Kaczor is that teacher.…
Bradley County Sheriff's Office warns of scam involving social media groups
BRADLEY COUNTY -- The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is warning locals about a scam involving social media groups. The scam is about local social media groups involving an individual claiming to need assistance…
Parkridge to be allowed to build freestanding emergency room in Cleveland
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- A few months ago, the Parkridge Health System announced their intentions to build a new freestanding emergency room in Cleveland. However, they faced…
Bradley County Sheriff's Office Warns of Local Scam
BRADLEY COUNTY -- The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is warning locals about a circulating scam that could affect individuals. The BCSO says they have received an increase in reports of scam calls where…
Bradley County Sheriff's Office Partners with Blood Assurance for Blood Drive
The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) says they are partnering with Blood Assurance to hold a blood drive. The blood drive will take place Monday, February 9, 2026 from 12 to 4…
Aggravated Domestic Assault Suspect Caught with Drone Assistance
CLEVELAND, Tenn. -- An individual has been apprehended following an aggravated domestic assault incident in Cleveland, according to the Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO). At approximately 5:50 a.m., deputies responded to a residence on Bent Tree Drive North West. BCSO…
Whitfield County Sheriff's Office warns of scam involving incarcerated individuals
WHITFIELD COUNTY -- The Whitfield County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) is warning individuals about a scam involving recent arrest information and incarcerated individuals. They say they assume that scammers are now preying on recent arrest…
Three firefighters treated for heat exhaustion in battle with Dalton house fire
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- Three firefighters were treated for apparent heat exhaustion in a Dalton fire Tuesday evening. Dalton firefighters say they responded to a home at…
Cohutta Town Council reinstates police department, tables decision on mayor's future
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Controlled underground blasting to take place off Old Tilton Road
Controlled underground blasting will take place today, Friday, May 1st, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for construction off Old Tilton Road, according to Whitfield County.
Mayor, police chief speak on resolution to Cohutta dispute
COHUTTA, Ga. (WDEF)- Has the controversial situation surrounding the small…
Community baby shower held in Dalton
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- Mothers in the Dalton area got to relax a…
Mediation leads to resolution in Cohutta
We have an update on a controversy engulfing the Whitfield County town of Cohutta. According to a post from the Cohutta Police Department, there has been mediation in the matter…
Underground blasting to occur off Old Tilton Road
Controlled underground blasting will take place Monday, April 27th, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for construction off Old Tilton Road, according to Whitfield County.
Whitfield County employees make take-home meals for senior citizens
WHITFIELD COUNTY -- On Tuesday, April 21st, Whitfield County employees volunteered with the Senior Center to assist with the preparation of take-home meals. They say a total of 31 grocery bags were filled, each…
Meth, marijuana, cash and scales seized in Rocky Face area investigation
WHITFIELD COUNTY -- Over 300 grams of Methamphetamine and over 750 grams of marijuana have been seized following an investigation in the Rocky Face area. According to the Whitfield County Sheriff's Office…
Dalton public safety board temporarily revokes license of establishment as manager questions process
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- What is the difference between…
What's Right With Our Schools, Valley Point STEM Night
DALTON, GA (WDEF) - Families at Valley Point Middle School recently came together to solve a mystery. Students used the skills they learn each day to track…
UPDATE: Man in stable condition after wife shot him multiple times
UPDATE: On April 15, 2026 at around 9 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence after receiving a call from Jeffrey Perkins, who stated he had been shot multiple times by his wife, Rita Perkins,…
Golden Apple Award: Kassie Dockery, Park Creek Elementary
DALTON, GA (WDEF) - Parents describe Kassie Dockery as a wonderful and dedicated teacher. Her students at Park Creek Elementary know that she will always be there for them.…
Whitfield Co. Sheriff's Office purchases Carter Kits
The Whitfield County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) has shared that they have purchased Carter Kits, which can be used to assist officers during calls involving children who have autism spectrum disorders. They say…
Fuller, Harris make joint appearance at Dalton town hall on forever chemicals
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- Both candidates in the runoff election in north Georgia attended a…
Charges dropped in teen's in custody death in Whitfield County
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- Indictments have been dismissed against five former employees of the Dalton Youth Detention Center in a teenager’s death. Attorneys for the family of Alexis Sluder say a Whitfield County judge dismissed those charges this week. Sluder had…
Chatsworth man convicted of child molestation, cyber sex crime
WHITFIELD COUNTY -- A Chatsworth man was convicted of two counts of child molestation and computer pornography on March 11, 2026. Barry Alexander Gordon, 40, was found guilty in 5 minutes by a Whitfield…
What's Right With Our Schools: GeorgiaFIRST Robotics Competition
DALTON, GA (WDEF) - Creating a working robot requires a strong understanding of mathematics and mechanical engineering. Teams of local teenagers recently showed what the machines could do…
Spill from commercial motor vehicle causes lane closures on Highway 201 at I-75 exit 341
Lanes are closed at Highway 201 at I-75 (341 exit) due to a large spill from a commercial motor vehicle, according to the Whitfield County Sheriff's Office (WCSO). They say a temporary…
