Category Archives: Local News

From online to in-person: Ali Kay brings Fresh Paint Live to Chattanooga

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The vibrant world of art is taking center stage in Chattanooga this week. Inside the Convention Center, nearly 250 artists have gathered from across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom for a unique two-day experience. Imagine being able to learn from your favorite art teacher and finally meet them…MORE

Hope for Alexander: A Family’s Mission to Change Childhood Cancer Treatment

Hope for Alexander: A Family’s Mission to Change Childhood Cancer Treatment

  CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) –  Imagine explaining to your child that he or she has cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than 15,000 children and teenagers are diagnosed with the disease each year in the United States. One Chicago family with roots in Chattanooga experienced this diagnosis firsthand. Meet 6-year-old Alexander…MORE

Cleveland HS Celebrates Student Success Stories

CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) – At Cleveland High School, Room 901 is home to more than just desks and textbooks. It’s where dreams take center stage. What started as a simple classroom challenge has turned into a powerful tradition, thanks to government teacher Kyle Gilpin. His “Wall of Dreams” proudly displays acceptance letters from seniors heading…MORE

What’s Right With Our Schools: Sequoyah Future Ready

SODDY DAISY, TN (WDEF) – A new initiative is coming to Sequoyah High School that promises to open up a world of opportunities for students. The North River Future Ready Center aims to equip students with the skills they need for college and in-demand careers.  This is another perfect example of “What’s Right With Our Schools”.…MORE

Suspect arrested after attempted vehicle theft at Bradley County golf course

Suspect arrested after attempted vehicle theft at Bradley County golf course

MGN BRADLEY COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — A quick response from Bradley County deputies led to the arrest of a suspect following a series of suspicious events at a local golf course. Deputies from the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) responded to the course’s maintenance facility after security footage showed two individuals acting suspiciously near dumpsters.…MORE

Five arrested in Soddy Daisy human trafficking operation

Five arrested in Soddy Daisy human trafficking operation

  SODDY DAISY, Tenn. (WDEF) —  A joint undercover operation targeting human trafficking in Soddy Daisy has resulted in the arrest of five individuals. The effort, led by TBI’s Human Trafficking Unit and the Tennessee Human Trafficking Task Force, took place on April 26, 2025. According to the TBI, agents posted decoy advertisements on websites…MORE

Weather Update: Monday April 28, 2025

Weather Update: Monday April 28, 2025

WDEF-TV News 12 Tennessee River Valley weather forecast Monday: Cloud/Sun Mix. Warm. Isolated PM Showers/Thunderstorms. Highs: low 80’s. Winds: NE @ 5 MPH. Overnight: A Few Clouds. Mild. Lows: mid 50’s. Winds: N @ 5 MPH. Tuesday: Cloud/Sun Mix. Warm. Highs: low 80’s. Winds: S @ 5 MPH. Overnight: Partly cloudy. Mild. Lows: low 60’s.…MORE

Hamilton County man pleads guilty to several charges in Catoosa County

Hamilton County man pleads guilty to several charges in Catoosa County

RINGGOLD, Ga. (WDEF) —  A Hamilton County man has pleaded guilty to several charges, including shooting at a police officer and being in possession of meth. On May 26, 2024, Travis Downie fired several shots at a responding Catoosa County Sheriff’s Office patrol unit. He then fled the scene and was later discovered by a…MORE