Category Archives: Local News

Prep Public Schools names new administrative team

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —  Prep Public Schools has appointed Troy Kemp as Chief Executive Officer and Chad Everett as Vice President of Schools. The Board of Directors introduced both leaders to the communities at Chattanooga Prep and Knoxville Prep. Kemp brings 34 years of experience in education, having served as a teacher, coach, administrator, and…MORE

CHA Ballet throws a “Curveball” onto the UTC Fine Arts Center stage

CHA Ballet CEO and Artistic Director Brian McSween joins News 12’s Amelia Greer to talk about the newest, original ballet coming to Chattanooga called “Curveball.” CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Chattanooga ballerinas are twirling a home run with the premiere of an original ballet called Curveball which is inspired by a trailblazing female pitcher in the…MORE

Dutch Maid Bakery’s sweet debut on the big screen

TRACY CITY, Tenn. (WDEF) – A new movie is hitting the silver screen, and this time, it has a Tennessee twist. The Holland, an American thriller starring Nicole Kidman, is set to premiere soon—and tucked within its suspense-filled scenes is a small but flavorful cameo: a Dutch Maid Bakery pastry made right in the heart…MORE

Plan Hamilton Sparks Growth Debate

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Community leaders gathered today at the Chattanooga Area Chamber to discuss the future of Hamilton County’s growth, and the challenges that come with it.  The growth strategy has sparked debate, especially in areas like Harrison.  With no set agenda, the meeting was designed to be an open-ended conversation about how to…MORE

K9 Faith Sniffs Out Retirement Bliss

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A special four-legged investigator is hanging up her harness after nearly eight years of service. Accelerant Detection Canine Faith is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and success in fire investigations. Faith has been a crucial member of the fire investigation team, working alongside her handler, Assistant Special Agent in…MORE

Chattanooga police arrest suspect on attempted murder charges

Chattanooga police arrest suspect on attempted murder charges

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —  Chattanooga Police have arrested a man less than 24 hours after an alleged shooting incident. On March 23, 2025, at 4:12 a.m., officers responded to a person shot call at Chattanooga Fire Station 4510 Bonny Oaks Drive. When officers arrived, firefighters were already treating the victim’s injuries when EMS arrived to…MORE

What’s Right With Our Schools: Whitwell Middle Level 5 Status

WHITWELL, TN (WDEF) – One Marion County school has reached the pinnacle of success. We traveled to Whitwell Middle School to learn how their accomplishment is more than just a status on this week’s ‘What’s Right With Our Schools’. Dr. Joshua Holtcamp is the Principal at Whitwell Middle School. He explains, ” That’s a status…MORE

People’s choice voting opens soon for TVFCU’s Idea Leap Grant

People’s choice voting opens soon for TVFCU’s Idea Leap Grant

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —  People’s choice voting for Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union’s (TVFCU) Idea Leap Grant will soon be open. Starting March 31, 2025 at 8:00 a.m., people’s choice vote opens for the community. Voting will close on April 4 at 5:00 p.m. The Idea Leap Grant is TVFCU’s annual program that awards funds…MORE

Man arrested, charged for drive by shooting

Man arrested, charged for drive by shooting

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —  Authorities have arrested a man facing multiple Attempted First Degree Murder charges. On January 13, 2025, at 3:36 p.m., officers responded to 1819 Foust Street for a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located a woman with a gunshot wound to her leg. She was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Investigators…MORE

Weather Update: Monday March 24, 2025

Weather Update: Monday March 24, 2025

WDEF-TV News 12 Tennessee River Valley weather forecast Overnight: Mostly clear, dry, cold. Lows: mid 40’s. Winds: NW @ 5 MPH. Tuesday: Sunny, dry, mild. Windy. Highs: mid 70’s. Winds: W @ 5-15 MPH, gusts 20-25. Overnight: Mostly clear. Chilly. Lows: mid 40’s. Winds: NW @ 5 MPH. Wednesday: Mild, windy, sunshine. Highs: NW @…MORE