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French hantavirus patient is critically ill and on an artificial lung as outbreak grows to 11
By THOMAS ADAMSON and RUSS BYNUM Associated Press PARIS (AP) - A…
Fire Department says a Scottsboro elementary student is a hero
SCOTTSBORO, Alabama (WDEF) - The Scottsboro Fire Department is calling a local Elementary schooler a hero. They presented Dash Duncan with a Fire Safety Hero award last night. Dash noticed smoke in the bathroom at Nelson Primary School and quickly…
GPS Advances to Spring Fling After Sweeping Brentwood Academy
Chattanooga-(WDEF-TV) The GPS softball team is returning to spring fling again. The Bruisers advanced to Murfreesboro after two dominating wins over Brentwood Academy. GPS won game one 8-0 and game two 9-0. [blox_vms account="WDEF" key="ddabd015e10829d65684df401e7a3d543850d19b" vtitle="GPS Returning to Spring Fling…
Braves Hold Cubs to One Hit in 5-2 Victory
ATLANTA (AP) — Grant Holmes combined with three relievers on a one-hitter, Austin Riley and Mike Yastrzemski homered and the Atlanta Braves beat the Chicago Cubs 5-2 on Tuesday night in the opener of a three-game set between the National…
Catcher Blake Lundy Continues to Power Baylor Attack
Chattanooga-(WDEF-TV) Baylor catcher Blake Lundy led the nation in home runs last year as a sophomore. And as Brian Armstrong reports, Lundy shows no signs of slowing down this year. [blox_vms account="WDEF" key="6b17ed30d6e6165d6b3d5f3272f225f2bc7323b2" vtitle="Catcher Blake Lundy Continues to Power Baylor…
New restaurant Torikaya brings modern Japanese-inspired dining to Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - A new restaurant has opened in downtown Chattanooga this week. Torikaya has officially opened its doors, bringing a modern Japanese-inspired dining experience to…
DA Reflects on Guilty Resolution
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) - District Attorney General Stephen Hatchett indicated the conclusion of the Craig Liner case brings a difficult but meaningful sense of closure after a guilty plea brought the…
ESPN's College Game Day Set to Begin 40th Season
NEW YORK (AP) — ESPN’s “College GameDay” will achieve a pair of milestones on its first show of the season. The venerable college football program will be celebrating its 40th season this year. The Sept. 5 show from Baton Rouge,…
New details released on planned amphitheater on the Chattanooga Westside
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Last week, we learned…
Semi stuck on Roberts Mill Road
The Hamilton County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) is responding to a stuck 18-wheeler on Roberts Mill Road. The road is temporarily closed. Drivers should seek alternate routes.
Chattanooga Public Library to host ninth annual Zine Fest
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- The Chattanooga Public Library will host the ninth annual Zine Fest on Saturday, May 30. The fourth floor of the Downtown Library will transform into a vibrant showcase of…
TVA says that lake levels are below normal due to drought
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- TVA says that those planning to enjoy our lakes this summer should prepare for them to be lower than normal. This is because of the drought…
Texas sheriff says 7th body could be tied to shipping container deaths, as ICE opens human smuggling probe
A man who was found dead Monday by the railroad tracks southwest of San Antonio, Texas, is believed to be connected to the six people who likely died of heat stroke inside a shipping container near the Mexico border, according to authorities.…
Federal prosecutors charge operator of ship in Baltimore's Key Bridge collapse
The operator of the container ship that lost power and slammed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge more than two years ago — killing six people and causing the bridge to collapse — is facing federal charges. An indictment unsealed Tuesday morning…
39-year-old male injured following shooting on Grove Street
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- A 39-year-old male is suffering non-fatal injuries following a shooting near the 1200 block of Grove Street. On May 11, 2026, at 5:59 p.m., Chattanooga Police officers were dispatched to a person…
The Nancy Guthrie investigation could hang on a strand of DNA
One hundred days is an agonizingly long time for a family to go without answers about their missing loved one. It's also long enough for the investigators working the case to feel the grind. At the 100-day mark, the investigation…
East Ridge Police Department seeking burglary suspect identity
EAST RIDGE -- The East Ridge Police Department is seeking the public assistance in identifying a suspect from business burglary, which occurred on on April 24, 2026. They ask if you have…
Supreme Court halts order for Alabama to use US House map with 2 largely Black districts
By DAVID A. LIEB, KIM CHANDLER and MARK SHERMAN Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday set the stage for Alabama to get rid of one of two largely Black congressional…
New details released on planned amphitheater on the Chattanooga Westside
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Last week, we learned…
Signal Mountain man sentenced to three consecutive life sentences in child rape case
Content warning: We do want to warn you that many of the details in this story are disturbing. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.…
Man shot on Chattanooga Westside Monday evening
Chattanooga Police on the scene of a shooting on the 1200 block of Grove Street in front of the James A. Henry Building near the College Hill Courts. A car is seen behind police tape on…
What's Right With Our Schools, Chattanooga Library Story Time
CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) - The foundation for life-long learning is often laid in pre-school, but for people that young, learning has to be fun. That's exactly where…
Hamilton County purchases land adjacent to Enterprise South Nature Park
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)-…
Commission to begin seeking bids on northshore Business Development Center amid opposition from incubator businesses
A group of business owners at the Hamilton County Small Business Incubator standing in opposition to a…
Geter knocks off Beck, other incumbents retain seats in Hamilton County commission primary races
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- There will be at least one new, albeit familiar face on the Hamilton County Commission come this…
Jason Chen denied new trial in Jasmine Pace murder case
Jason Chen entering into a hearing on May 4, 2026 attempting to get a new trial (left). Jasmine Pace, the victim of…
Transfer of portion of Engel Stadium land to Hamilton County approved
The land that is being transferred on the Engel Stadium property from UTC to Hamilton County for a new Health Department…
The WDEF building wasn't always a TV station - Then and Now
This building at 3300 Broad Street has been the home of WDEF TV for almost 70 years, but this isn’t where we started our…
Workers learn "Confined Space Entry and Rescue" at ChattState
Today at a training ground on ChattState campus, a group of students learned lifesaving skills. Instructor Kent Cochran, Owner of Cochran Safety Associates tells us, "What we’re…
The History of the Parkway Tower - Then and Now
If you’ve driven up Highway 27 in the last 50 years, you probably noticed that old eyesore that marks our skyline. As kids we called it…
Early voting ends in Hamilton County
HAMILTON COUNTY – Early Voting ended in Hamilton County on April 30, 2026 with nearly 5% of registered voters casting an early ballot or returning their absentee ballot ahead of the May 5th County Primary election. 9,185 voters cast an…
Yangfeng announces 155 permanent layoffs in Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- Yanfeng International released a WARN notice on the 29th announcing they were permanently laying off 155 workers at their Chattanooga Plant on Bonnyshire Drive,…
Low-Cost Kayak classes coming May 16th at area state parks
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- May 16th marks the beginning of Safe Boating Week in Tennessee. The TWRA is partnering with the American Canoe Association to…
Human Educational Society says they're "at capacity"
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- If you’re looking to add a furry friend to your family, now is a good time to consider…
Developer addresses Bend progress, communication concerns with council members
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- As the Chattanooga Lookouts begin their…
Officers to not face charges in death of suspect on Highway 58
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Officers will not face charges in a shooting last July on Highway 58. Hamilton County District Attorney Coty Wamp confirmed to…
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…
Cleveland to utilize school bus cameras with AI to deter stop sign violators
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- Getting kids to and from school everyday is a top priority for school districts.…
5 Vehicles Involved in Crash that Shut Down I-75 in Bradley County
BRADLEY COUNTY -- Five vehicles were involved in a crash on I-75 at mile marker 24 in Bradley County, which temporarily shut down the roadway. One person was extracted and transported to a local hospital with non life threatening…
Cohutta Town Council reinstates police department, tables decision on mayor's future
[blox_vms account="WDEF" key="fe484f159dfe68167acb735ecb588ba2fcf118ab"…
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…
Golden Apple Award: Ashley Lyons, Westside Middle
ROCKY FACE, GA (WDEF) - The best teachers truly care about their students. That certainly describes Ashley Lyons. Her students at Westside Middle have a friend and mentor for…
Who will replace Marjorie Taylor Greene in Congress?
14th DISTRICT, Ga. (WDEF) -- On January 20, the Walker County Republican Party held a meet and greet for the Republican candidates vying for the open 14th Congressional District seat in Georgia. There are 22 candidates who have qualified for…
