Category Archives: Local News

Weather Update: Friday March 21, 2025

Weather Update: Friday March 21, 2025

WDEF-TV News 12 Tennessee River Valley weather forecast Overnight: Mostly clear, dry, cold. Lows: low 40’s. Winds: SW @ 5 MPH. Saturday: Sunny, dry, mild. Highs: high 60’s to low 70’s. Winds: W @ 10-20 MPH, gusts 25 MPH. Overnight: Mostly clear, dry, cold. Lows: low 40’s. Winds: W @ 5 MPH. Sunday: More clouds.…MORE

TBI charges man with Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

TBI charges man with Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

SEQUATCHIE COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has charged a man in relation to a child sexual exploitation case. Michael Williford, TBI special agents arrested Michael Williford back in October of 2024. He was initially charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. After further investigation into Williford’s digital devices, authorities say…MORE

Bradley County deputy reunites with woman he rescued from fire

Bradley County deputy reunites with woman he rescued from fire

BRADLEY COUNTY, Tenn. — The Bradley County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) recently welcomed a survivor back for a reunion with the first responder who helped save her life. In December of 2024, authorities were dispatched to a structure fire on Sourwood Trail. Upon arrival, crews found a detached garage with an apartment above it was fully…MORE

GBI takes over investigation into Chattooga County commissioner

GBI takes over investigation into Chattooga County commissioner

CHATTOOGA COUNTY, Ga. (WDEF) —  An investigation into a northwest Georgia official has taken another twist. Andy Allen The case involves the head of Chattooga County government, commissioner Andy Allen. A truck driver says the commissioner assaulted him over a road blockage on Little Sand Mountain Road. The cattle hauler was blocking the road as…MORE

Walk with Goats, Sheep, and Pigs at Audubon Acres

Looking for a fun, family-friendly activity? The Chattanooga Audubon Society invites you to take a walk with goats, sheep, or even a pig along the scenic trails at Audubon Acres. This unique experience lets families stroll along the Sarah Key Patton Trails, making stops for nature-watching and treats. Each group will receive snacks to reward…MORE

CHATT Foundation Hosts Job Fair for the Homeless

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —  The CHATT Foundation hosted a job fair today aimed at empowering the homeless and offering them a fresh start. The event featured representatives from several companies, including Food City, CHI Memorial, and Pilgrim’s Pride, who were on hand to connect directly with job seekers. While the foundation initially set a goal…MORE

Mother and Daughter, Erlanger Doctors Together

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – This week, medical students across the country are finding out where they’ll begin their residency training as part of Match Week, a major milestone in their journey to becoming doctors. But for one mother-daughter duo at Erlanger Hospital, that journey is extra special. Dr. Jeanie Dassow has dedicated her career to…MORE

Hidden Danger in Downtown Soil

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Downtown Chattanooga is facing a hidden threat, dangerous levels of lead in the soil.  Recent studies have uncovered alarming concentrations, raising health concerns for those who live, work, and play here. Exposure to lead, especially in children, can have lifelong effects. Even small amounts of contaminated soil can lead to serious…MORE

Board meets to discuss Education Freedom Scholarship implementation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF)- The implementation of school vouchers in Tennessee was at the center of a long discussion Thursday. The Education Freedom Scholarship Act was signed into law last month by Governor Bill Lee. It creates 20,000 scholarships to pay for public school students to attend private schools. In terms of getting those scholarships to…MORE