CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — The Walnut Street Bridge is officially closed for renovations, marking the start of an 18-month construction project aimed at preserving one of Chattanooga’s most iconic landmarks. The bridge, which first opened in 1891, has long been a staple of the city’s skyline. However, due to its age, city officials say extensive repairs…… MORE
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Recent Tennessee Supreme Court ruling raises questions about the residency of municipal judges
RED BANK, Tenn. (WDEF)- A recent Tennessee Supreme Court ruling could have an effect on who hears your next case. That started as an election dispute right outside of Knoxville has caused questions all over the state of Tennessee. That includes in several smaller Hamilton County communities such as Red Bank, East Ridge, and Collegedale.…… MORE
Walker County Votes on E-SPLOST
Walker County, GA (WDEF) – Walker County voters will decide tomorrow on the continuation of a one-percent sales tax that funds school improvements. This E-SPLOST, in place since 1997, helps cover school facility upgrades, heating and air systems, roofing, lighting, technology improvements, and parking lot repaving. Unlike capital funds from the state, which only cover…… MORE
March Madness Sparks Responsible Betting
he rise of legalized sports betting, industry leaders are emphasizing the need for responsible gaming, especially during this high-stakes tournament. With March Madness set to drive another surge in betting activity, experts and industry leaders are reinforcing responsible gaming efforts. The NCAA tournament coincides with Problem Gambling Awareness Month, making it a crucial time to…… MORE
What’s Right With Our Schools: School Resource Development Institute at Bessie Smith Cultural Center
CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) – Three Hamilton County schools teamed up to craft strategic funding plans that could change the way they secure resources in the future. The Bessie Smith Cultural Center was buzzing with excitement as the School Resource Development Institute wrapped up their very first program designed to help Hamilton County students with funding…… MORE
Chattanooga man arrested in GA after being accused of threatening court judges
GORDON COUNTY, Ga. (WDEF) — A Chattanooga man has been arrested after being accused of threatening court judges in Georgia. On March 10, 2025, deputy sheriffs received a report of a caller threatening superior court judges in Gordon County. Gordon County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) stated deputies questioned witnesses and gathered electronic evidence which corroborated witness…… MORE
Chattanooga man arrested in Gordon County after threatening court judges
GORDON COUNTY, Ga. (WDEF) — A Chattanooga man has been arrested after threatening court judges in Georgia. On March 10, 2025, deputy sheriffs received a report of a caller threatening superior court judges in Gordon County. Gordon County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) stated deputies questioned witnesses and gathered electronic evidence which corroborated witness statements. Deputies arrested…… MORE
Dunlap authorities apprehend suspected bench thief
Billy Joe King / Dunlap Police Department via Facebook UPDATE (3/17/2025): The Dunlap bench thief has been apprehended. The Dunlap Police Department (DPD) and the Sequatchie County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) arrested Billy Joe King after receiving a tip. He is being charged with two counts of Theft of Property. DPD says the benches were recovered…… MORE
Dunlap authorities asking for public’s help in locating bench thief
DUNLAP, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Dunlap Police Department (DPD) is asking for the public’s help in identifying a thief. On the night of March 9, 2025, a suspect stole two benches from the front of Cates Street Pharmacy. The incident was caught by the store’s security cameras. DPD says the suspect has a distinct walker,…… MORE
Local man who survived tank explosion reunites with first responder
Chief Scott Powell And Gary Patton / Hamilton County EMS HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — Eight years after a near-fatal accident, a local man has reunited with the first responder who helped save his life. April 4, 2017, Gary Patton was welding atop a 30-foot tank when it suddenly exploded. Among the first responders to…… MORE
