Fresh Smell Doesn’t Mean Clean

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – As cold and flu season returns, air quality in the workplace is becoming a major concern for employees. A new survey shows 71% of workers avoid shared spaces when the air smells bad or feels stuffy.  Many also believe that if a space smells fresh, it must be germ-free, but that’s not always true. Experts like…

Physics Students Take Flight

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Students at Boyd-Buchanan school catapulted their learning to new heights during the 20th Annual Physics Trebuchet and Catapult Competition on Thursday, October 9th. The event challenged students to design, build, and test large-scale trebuchets and catapults capable of launching softballs more than 100 yards across the stadium field.  Teams spent months preparing their machines as part…

Erlanger Park on track to open in six months

The inside of Erlanger Park on October 9, 2025, six months before its expected completion. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Once the remnants of Chattanooga’s industrial past, Erlanger Park is quickly coming out of the ground. The new home of the Chattanooga Lookouts is aiming to become one of the city’s premier event destinations. Developers say it is on time and under…

Tech Byte: Better Business Bureau Warns of New Diabolical Scams

CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) – Technology has given rise to new waves of diabolical criminals, from crypto scams that target people with disposable income, to online scams that target people looking for a bargain, it all adds up to billions of dollars stolen from hardworking Americans every year. So, what’s a savvy shopper to do? We get some timely advice from…

Chattanooga’s Olivia Reeves Continues to Break Weightlifting World Records

Chattanooga native Olivia Reeves won Olympic gold in weightlifting at the Summer games in 2024. Now she’s busy breaking world records. At the senior world championships Wednesday in Norway, Reeves set three world records for the snatch, clean and jerk, and total weight. In the clean and jerk, Reeves did 155 kilograms, which is 341-pounds she threw over her head….

Baylor’s David Gabriel-Georges Enjoyed a ‘Night to Remember’ Against McCallie

Chattanooga-(WDEF-TV) The Baylor-McCallie game featured some star power with Peyton Manning and Tony Vitello in the stands. But the biggest star was on the field. Baylor running back David Gabriel-Georges. He rushed for over 280-yards with three touchdown runs, which were all 50-yards or longer. He fueled the Red Raiders to a 38-35 victory. Categories: Sports – Local Sports News

Turning Point USA approved as UTC Chapter

UPDATE: Turning Point USA has been approved as a registered student organization at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) as of Thursday morning. After completing a review, the UTC Dean of Student’s Office approved the chapter. “While the Student Government Association may voice opinions, recognition of student organizations is determined by the UTC Dean of Students and Chancellor. Turning…

Chattanooga Unites Against Violence

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Community leaders and residents came together Wednesday for the “One Community, One Mission” Violence Summit at Brainerd Crossroads. Hosted by Mayor Kelly’s office, the event brought together organizations dedicated to reducing gun violence, including 423 Chainbreakers, a group of mentors and violence interrupters using firsthand experience to mediate conflicts and prevent shootings. 423 Chainbreakers Program Manager…

Volkswagen employee and union barginer testifies at Senate hearing

WASHINGTON (WDEF)- A Volkswagen employee and union leader testified on Capitol Hill Wednesday morning. Steve Cochran says he has worked at VW for 14 years and is on the UAW’s bargaining committee. However, he voiced his displeasure with how that process has gone to a group of Senators, arguing that V-W has broken the law. Cochran said, “Your average worker…

Soddy-Daisy Joins Hamilton County 911

SODDY DAISY, Tenn. (WDEF) – The City of Soddy-Daisy is officially consolidating its emergency communications with Hamilton County 9-1-1, a move leaders say will improve response times, enhance technology, and save taxpayer dollars. The Soddy-Daisy Commission voted on September 18 to approve the partnership, with the transition taking effect October 29, 2025.  City Manager Burt Johnson said maintaining an independent…

Juvenile arrested for shooting on Windsor Street

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)-A juvenile is in custody following a shooting two weeks ago. Chattanooga Police say they believe that male shot a 17 year old female at a home on the 2300 block of Windsor Street. She suffered a non-life threatening gunshot wound. The juvenile male was arrested on Wednesday by CPD Neighborhood Policing Officers. He is charged with Aggravated…

Pumpkins take over Rock City!

Pepper Raper with Rock City joins News 12’s Amelia Greer to highlight their newest attraction for spooky season.  CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A new fall tradition has begun at Rock City that will leave you squealing in delight! Pumpkins have taken over the nearly century-old attraction with some skeletons peeking out the corner, making the site a bit more enchanted…

Baylor Grad Henry Ford Hoping to Shine With Vols Baseball Team

Chattanooga-(WDEF-TV) Baylor Grad Henry Ford left the Virginia baseball team this spring and transferred to Tennessee. Ford left his mark with the Cavaliers, leading the team in homers and hits last year. Now Ford wouldn’t mind doing the same on Rocky Top. Brian Armstrong caught up with the college slugger during the Vols exhibition game in Chattanooga. Categories: Sports –…

Major 2025 Tax Code Changes

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Millions of Americans will see significant changes when they file their 2025 tax returns.  The Child Tax Credit is increasing to $2,200 per child, providing more support for families. Seniors may also qualify for an additional deduction, offering extra relief for retirees. In addition, the IRS is introducing new deductions for tips, overtime pay, and car…

Protect Kids from Early Illness

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – This fall, pediatricians are noticing an early rise in respiratory illnesses, especially flu and RSV.  These viruses spread quickly in schools, daycares, and other busy indoor spaces, making prevention at home more important than ever. Recognizing early warning signs is key.  Parents should watch for fever, coughing, congestion, runny nose, or difficulty breathing.  If your child…

Golden Apple Award: Kathleen Rifenberick, Cloud Springs Elementary

ROSSVILLE, GA (WDEF) – Not every child learns the same way. Kathleen Rifenberick has a gift for tailoring her lesson plans to fit each student in her class at Cloud Springs Elementary. That kind of dedication earned Mrs. R this week’s Golden Apple Award. Lori Wellborn is the Principal at Cloud Springs Elementary. She says, ” There are so many things…

News 12 launches weekend series for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time dedicated to honoring survivors, promoting prevention, and highlighting local resources that bring hope and healing to families across our region. Throughout the month, News 12 will share stories each weekend focused on awareness and empowerment, from survivor experiences to community events hosted by the Family Justice Center. This…

Exclusive interview: Judge calls for mental health reform after death of local man

BRADLEY COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – A Bradley County judge is speaking out after the tragic death of a 27-year-old man who spent years battling severe mental illness. Judge Clay Collins says the system failed Chase Scoggins, and without significant reform and more mental health resources, others could face the same fate. In an exclusive interview with News 12, Judge Collins…

What’s Right With Our Schools: Orchard Knob Baptist Back to School Bash

CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) -Communities can play a vital role in a child’s education. With that in mind, families, neighbors and local leaders recently gathered at Orchard Knob Baptist Church. The wanted to make sure everyone was on the same page for successful school year. And that is a far-reaching example of “What’s Right With Our Schools.”   Prentice Gilbert is the…

IDB approves Northgate Mall TIF to go to next step

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)-  A proposal to modernize infrastructure at Northgate Mall passed its next step. The Industrial Development Board approved a tax increment financing district to continue up the chain for the Hixson retail district. The mall’s owner, CBL, says that a portion of sales tax generated by new businesses such as BJ’s Wholesale would go to replacing their outdated…

Real Men Wear Pink to Miller’s Ale House

Franco Gunnell joins News 12’s Amelia Greer to remind customers about Miller’s Ale House’ fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Enjoy a great meal for a great cause with Miller’s Ale House on October 7. Miller’s Ale House is holding a fundraiser to raise funds for cancer research through the American Cancer Society. As part of…