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Convicted sex offender now a fugitive after going on the run during metro Atlanta rape trial, deputies say
Deputies in metro Atlanta are searching for a convicted sex offender who went on the run during…
Man convicted of fatally stabbing his wife set to be ninth person executed this year in Florida
STARKE, Fla. (AP) — A Florida man convicted of fatally stabbing his wife decades ago is set to be executed Thursday evening. Dusty Ray Spencer, 74, is scheduled to receive a three-drug injection starting at 6 p.m. at Florida State…
Atlanta-area doctor accused of attempting to defraud $4.3 million from Georgia Medicaid
A Georgia doctor has been charged as part of a national investigation into Medicare and Medicaid fraud, federal authorities say. Prosecutors say 52-year-old Murrell Carnel Rutledge, Jr., the owner of East Point's Rutledge Medical Associates,…
Snap sued over rape of minor who met adult attacker via Snapchat
The parents of a girl who was raped when she was 12 years old by an adult stranger she connected to via Snapchat have sued its parent company, Snap, and the attacker, in Missouri state court. The lawsuit filed Wednesday…
Mayor Candidate Threat Allegations
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - A Hamilton County Democratic mayoral candidate is facing scrutiny over allegations he sent threatening text messages to multiple school board members in October of 2025. According to a…
Weather Update: THURSDAY JUNE 25, 2026
WDEF-TV News 12 Tennessee River Valley weather forecast Overnight: Mostly clear, mild. Lows: mid 60's. Winds: Near Calm. Thursday: Mostly sunny. Isolated showers in the afternoon. Highs: high 80's. Winds: S @ 5 MPH. Overnight: Stray showers early. Clearing skies.…
Vols Gillespie and Okpara Taken in Second Round of the NBA Draft
(utsports.com) Senior guard Ja'Kobi Gillespie of the University of Tennessee men's basketball team went No. 42 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft, chosen in the second round Wednesday night by the San Antonio Spurs at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. The 12th…
Baylor Has Enjoyed Hosting Spanish National Team For the World Cup
Chattanooga-(WDEF-TV) Hosting one of the best soccer teams in the world, along with one of the best soccer players in the world, has been a pretty good gig so far for Baylor. The Spanish national team has been training on…
Lookouts Ruben Ibarra Had Two Homers and Six RBI's in 13-5 Win Over Pensacola
Chattanooga-(WDEF-TV) The Lookouts Ruben Ibarra had a huge night against Pensacola on Wednesday at Erlanger Park. He hit a pair of three-run homers, as Chattanooga blitzed Pensacola 13-5. Ibarra literally knocked his first home run out of Erlanger Park. It…
Chattanooga Firefighters defeat Tunnel Blvd apartment fire
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- The Chattanooga Fire Department responded to an apartment fire with entrapment Tuesday night. It happened just before midnight. Multiple people were trapped by smoke…
Ex-Georgia Cub Scout leader sentenced to federal prison on child porn distribution charge
A former Georgia Cub Scout leader and football coach will spend years in federal prison for distributing sexually explicit images of children. A federal judge sentenced 73-year-old Ernest Vera to six years in prison…
ChattState, ETSU Agreement creates 4-Year apprenticeship pathway with BlueCross
The signing of a new articulation agreement has…
Hamilton Co. Health Department warns of risks of feeding wild animals
The Hamilton County Health Department (HCHD) is warning individuals of the risks that come along with feeding wild animals. They say although wildlife may appear cute, feeding them can be dangerous for…
Fatal Pigeon Forge officer-involved shooting under investigation
TBI special agents are investigating the circumstances leading to a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred in Pigeon Forge. On the morning of June 24, 2026, deputies with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office responded to a hotel in the 4000 block…
A member of the cultlike Zizians group is charged in the killings of her parents in Pennsylvania
In this image from video, Michelle Zajko, who is associated with a cultlike group known as Zizians that is linked to several deaths across the U.S., is escorted into court for a pretrial hearing on trespassing,…
Spanish National Team heads to final group match
La Roja won their second match in the World Cup and now it’s time for them…
New red panda joins Chattanooga Zoo
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- A new red panda has joined the Chattanooga Zoo. Willow is a 10 year-old Chinese red panda, who transferred from Houston Zoo about two weeks ago. The Chattanooga Zoo says Chinese red pandas typically have a…
Former Cumberland County High School cheer coach indicted after misappropriating funds
An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has resulted in the indictment of Donna Mifflin, the former Cumberland County High School Cheer Team coach. Investigators determined that Mifflin misappropriated at least $5,155.03 in cheer funds between April 2024 and October…
Chattanooga Firefighters defeat Tunnel Blvd apartment fire
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- The Chattanooga Fire Department responded to an apartment fire with entrapment Tuesday night. It happened just before midnight. Multiple people were trapped by smoke…
History experience to soon open in Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- "We want to tell Chattanooga’s story in a way no one ever…
EPB says nearly all outages resolved following Monday's storms
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- After Monday's storms, local power companies have had to undergo…
CARTA to host meeting on future of Brainerd corridor
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- CARTA wants to hear from commuters who travel from and through the Brainerd area. They will be hosting a community feedback session Wednesday evening…
Hundreds watch USA beat Australia at Soccer Live watch party
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Hundreds braved the heat to cheer on the USA men’s soccer team in their World Cup match versus Australia on…
HCS to no longer issue elementary and middle school students individual laptops
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Hamilton County Schools have made a policy change regarding technology. The board approved that change as schools will no…
Spain gets ready for second World Cup Match
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Spain held their final preparations in Chattanooga today before their second match of the World Cup. La Roja is looking for some…
Hamilton Co. Health Department provides grilling safety tips
The Hamilton County Health Department (HCHD) is providing some food safety tips. They say when grilling, food safety is essential for a great meal. To prepare a meal that is safe for consumption, the HCHD says individuals can follow these…
Goodine claims he's not being allowed to exchange legal materials with attorney in jail
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- An ex-Chattanooga police officer is getting close to his trial on first degree murder charges in the 2023 death…
UPDATE: Collegedale homicide suspect pleads not guilty as police search for victim's body
UPDATE 6/19/2026: Collegedale Police announced that the decision has been made…
City council discusses recommended investment in sports facilities
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Should the city of Chattanooga help fund new sports facilities? A recent report from the Chattanooga Tourism Company is recommending that a brand new indoor…
What's Right With Our Schools: Stove Works Art
CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) - Hamilton County students took part in immersive art program at Stove Works. The results are nothing short of inspiring. Let's take a closer look…
Concrete repairs to prompt lane closures on I-24 in Hamilton County
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will perform concrete pavement repairs on I‑24 East near mile marker 182. This work will take place over two more weekends and will…
Then and Now: First Presbyterian Church
First Presbyterian Church in Chattanooga is a local landmark known to most, especially the students of UTC. What many don’t know is the church has roots going all the way…
Lamar Alexander Visits Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- He is a former governor, senator, secretary of education, and served under ten presidents. Lamar Alexander released a book detailing his life, which is already a New…
Pat Summitt Foundation hosts weekend of giving
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- This year will mark a decade since legendary Lady Vols coach Pat Summitt passed away. The Pat Summitt Foundation is hosting a weekend of…
Hamilton County seeking poll workers for August 6 election
HAMILTON COUNTY -- The Hamilton County Election Commission is looking for individuals to work the August 6 State and Federal Primary and County General Election. They say this is a paid position and the Election Day stipend ranges from $135…
Hamilton County passes FY 2027 budget
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The Hamilton County Commission has approved a new budget. It was approved 9 to 1 Wednesday evening in a special called meeting. The total budget is over…
Baylor soccer players, coach say hosting Spain is a dream come true
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- "I'm going to be able to tell my friends, 'Yeah I shared a locker with somebody from the Spanish national team…
Residents debate proposed Bradley County first responder pay
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- Bradley County residents are sounding off over a potential tax increase to support an increase in first responder pay. They made their cases to the Bradley…
First Baptist Cleveland donates 500 Bibles to Bradley County Jail
First Baptist Cleveland has donated 500 Bibles to the Bradley County Jail. The Bradley County Sheriff's Office says this gift will provide hope, encouragement, guidance, and spiritual support to many individuals as…
Bradley County Jail receives TCI certification
BRADLEY COUNTY -- The Bradley County Jail has received its Tennessee Corrections Institute (TCI) certification following inspection on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. The Bradley County Sheriff's Office says the inspection revealed no findings at the facility, and as a result,…
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…
What's Right With Our Schools: SE Whitfield Pawsome Program
DALTON, GA (WDEF) - Pets are our best friends, but keeping them clean and clipped can be challenging. Students at Southeast Whitfield are getting some valuable lessons…
What's Right With Our Schools: Whitfield County Financial Planning
WHITFIELD COUNTY, GA (WDEF) - Understanding money, and how to make it work for you, is a key to success in life. Students in Whitfield County are…
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…
