CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Class is officially back in session for Hamilton County students, with schools reopening today, August 6, 2025. District leaders say more than 45,000 students are returning to classrooms this fall. To prepare families, Hamilton County Schools launched its annual “First Day Ready” campaign, offering back-to-school supply lists, bus route information, nutrition guidance, and access to summer…
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Human trafficking is a devastating and hidden crime affecting millions globally. With an estimated 27.6 million victims, traffickers operate silently, blending into everyday life. Victims may be found in homes, workplaces, or public places, often unseen. Recognizing signs, such as restricted freedom, fearfulness, or unusual behavior, is crucial. Communities can make a difference by staying alert…
Click to view other businesses at Destination: Ocoee. OCOEE, Tenn. (WDEF) — Its a restaurant that reflects the history and culture of the community in Polk County, Tennessee. The menu is inspired by favorites and has traditional flavors. The Ocoee Dam Deli and Diner is located on Highway 64 where the owners take pride in naming many of the…
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF) — It’s official, Senator Marsha Blackburn is entering the race for governor of Tennessee. Senator Blackburn launched her campaign Wednesday, saying: “In his first six months, President Trump has made historic strides in Making America Great Again, but as he sends power back to the states, he’s going to need strong conservative governors who can bring that…
Jake Cash and Cole Abbott join News 12’s Amelia Greer to preview a special event at the zoo this weekend. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Pirates, parrots, and princesses… oh my! Guests will get to enjoy a day at the Chattanooga Zoo with pirates and princesses from Magic Lamp Entertainment exploring Warner Parker. And of course, the pirates have their best…
(utsports.com) The Volunteers were back on the practice field Tuesday morning as they continue to build toward their 2025 season opener against Syracuse at the end of the month. Fifth-year offensive line coach Glen Elarbee took to the podium following Tuesday’s practice to talk about Tennessee’s revamped unit up front. Despite having to replace four starters from last year’s group, there is…
Jasper, TN-(WDEF-TV) Marion Co entertained Hixson in a scrimmage on Tuesday evening. Warriors are the reigning 2A state champions, and they looked the part on their home turf, as they beat Hixson 48-12. Categories: Sports – Local Sports News
Chattanooga Christian made the playoffs last year, but they still finished with a 5-6 record. The Chargers do return their starting quarterback, and they’ve got a schedule that might be the envy of everyone in the area. CC S has the 30-in-30 spotlight. Categories: Sports – 30 In 30 2025, Sports – Local Sports News
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – City leaders from across Tennessee came together in Chattanooga for the Tennessee Municipal League Conference, a three-day event focused on collaboration, innovation, and celebrating the success stories of cities throughout the state. Mayor Julian McTizic Sr. of Bolivar kicked off the final day with applause and appreciation. “It has been a wonderful past three days,” McTizic…
Mayor Kelly’s Chief of Staff Kevin Roig giving a presentation to the Chattanooga City Council on Tuesday. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The Chattanooga City Council once again had a tense discussion surrounding property tax rates. This is due to a desire to raise the pay of first responders in the city. Two dueling property tax rates seem to be at the…
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – As back-to-school season begins, families are adjusting their spending habits, especially when it comes to clothing. According to the 2025 Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor™ Survey, parents expect to spend around $417 per student this year, a drop from $472 in 2024. When shopping, about half of families make clothing decisions together. Parents are prioritizing comfort, while…
Chattanooga, TN(WDEF)- Inside the Gerald McCormick Conference Center, a strong display of unity and support unfolded as leaders from across Tennessee came together for an important cause. The Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office, joined by state and local officials, awarded 36 grants totaling more than \$1 million. The funding will go directly to volunteer fire departments and rescue squads across…
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Chattanooga Preparatory School kicked off the new school year with a powerful tradition known as the Chattanooga 300 Walk. Students walked into the building this morning to the sound of applause and cheers, as parents and staff lined the sidewalks in a show of support. Chris Sands, Parent of Chatt Prep Student, told News 12 that…
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – After a 17-year-old was shot while attempting to complete an online transaction arranged through a social media marketplace, the Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) are reminding the public to prioritize safety when meeting with strangers. According to CPD, the teen arranged to meet someone to buy or sell an item, something officers say is becoming increasingly common…
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — A dangerous scene played out on Riverside Drive in Chattanooga around 7:45 p.m. Monday night. Joseph Estes A police officer saw a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and tried to make a traffic stop. According to investigators, the driver sideswiped the patrol car, then drove straight across Riverside Drive and hit a pole….
UPDATE (8/5/2025): Authorities in Whitfield County have made an arrest in regard to the armed robbery Tuesday morning. Whitfield County Armed Robbery Suspect / Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office The Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) arrested Kenneth Jones Tuesday, August 5, 2025. Tuesday morning, Jones stole approximately $3,000. He was arrested within two hours of the incident. Whitfield County Sheriff Darren…
JACKSON, Tenn. (WDEF) — The manhunt for the suspect accused of killing four people and abandoning an infant across the state is now over. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) announced around 10:30 a.m. on social media that Austin Drummond is in custody. Drummond is suspected in a quadruple homicide in Lake County and is also allegedly connected to the…
Baylor has been to the state title game three years in-a-row. And the Red Raiders show no signs of slowing down this season, as they return several talented players, including some big time college prospects. Brian Armstrong gives Baylor the 30-in-30 spotlight. Categories: Sports – 30 In 30 2025, Sports – Local Sports News
South Pittsburg lost in the Class A state championship game last season, but the Pirates return several talented players, including running back Jamychal Buckner. He scored a whopping 30 touchdowns last year. Talent plus experience should equal another good season for the proud Pirates program. South Pitt has our 30-in-30 spotlight. Categories: Sports – 30 In 30 2025, Sports –…
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A new Medicare initiative is now providing fully covered caregiving support for individuals living with dementia, including right here in Chattanooga through Right at Home. Medicare has officially launched a groundbreaking support system called the GUIDE Program, short for Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience. It’s designed to support both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers…
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Health officials say they’re concerned about the rise of a disease affecting pregnant mothers and their babies. Hamilton County health officer Dr. Stephen Miller spoke on the rise of congenital syphilis during Monday’s Regional Health Council meeting. Congenital syphilis occurs when a pregnant mother who contracts syphilis passes it along to their baby. A graph showing the…
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) – Chef Wesley True of Inman Social in Cleveland, Tennessee, has been crowned the 2025 King of American Seafood after winning the prestigious Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans. Held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, the annual competition brought together top chefs from across the U.S. True wowed the judges with his dish: fried…
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – As the new school year begins, leaders from the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) offered expert insight into how schools can better protect students and staff. The nonprofit organization says every campus should start with basic safety measures: lock and monitor all exterior doors, ensure students can’t bypass weapon detectors, and conduct behavioral threat…
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- A man who has been convicted twice of a 20-21 murder outside of a Brainerd night club is attempting to seek a third trial. Kristijian Mrkonjic was convicted last year of first degree murder in the shooting death of Eric Grant. (From: Tennessee Department of Corrections) The shooting occurred outside of the Sky Zoo Bar on June…