The Walker County Coroner’s Office is pushing back against false rumors circulating online claiming children from two local schools died by suicide. Coroner Billy Sims says those reports are completely untrue and that no such cases have been reported or investigated. Sims warns that sharing misinformation—especially about children—can cause fear, distress, and real harm to families. He urges residents to rely only on verified information from official sources. The Coroner’s Office says it works closely with law enforcement and medical professionals, and any matters of public concern will be released through proper channels.
Summerville Police are investigating an apparent suicide after a person was found unresponsive near the parking lot at the Fairway Recreation Center over the weekend. Captain Caine Railey says officers were called to the ballfields area on Saturday. Police say there is no threat to the public. The individual’s name has not been released, and no further details will be provided out of respect for the family.
The Heritage High School community is mourning the loss of a student who died on Friday. Catoosa County Schools says staff responded quickly to ensure students felt safe and supported. Superintendent Chance Nix praised the professionalism and compassion shown by counselors, social workers, school nurses, and SROs, along with local youth pastors and mental health partners who stepped in to help. School leaders provided quiet spaces, one-on-one counseling, and encouraged teachers to focus on student support throughout the day. No further details have been released.
Walker County has been selected for the 2026 Placemaking Project by Greater Chattanooga REALTORS®, which will fund safety and accessibility improvements at Walker Rocks Park in Rock Spring. The project will add a protective fence around the inclusive playground, a filtered water bottle station, and four new benches. The playground, named a Playcore National Demonstration Site for Inclusive Play in 2024, serves children with special needs and families in the area. Additional park improvements include four new pickleball courts and a walking trail resurfacing planned for next year.