Press Releases

On November 19, 2021 at approximately 3:15 p.m., Chattanooga Police responded to the 3400 block of Birchwood Drive on a report of a person shot. The following are the preliminary facts of the investigation:

On November 18, 2021 at approximately 6:00 a.m., Chattanooga Police Traffic Division responded to a traffic crash in the 430 block of Interstate 75 North. The following was determined through interview, observation, and investigation:

On September 10, 2021 at approximately 4:36 p.m., Chattanooga Police responded to the 4700 block of Fairwood Lane on a report of a child having difficulty breathing. The following are the preliminary facts of the investigation:

Upon arrival, Officers located a male child having difficulty breathing and began rendering life saving care.
The victim was transported to a local hospital by Hamilton County EMS with unknown injuries.
Investigators with the Violent Crimes Unit responded to conduct an investigation.
Investigators learned that the child was in critical condition, having sustained injuries that were suspicious in nature.
The victim later succumbed to his injuries and an investigation was initiated by the Medical Examiner's Office to determine the manner of death.
The Medical Examiner's report was completed on November 6, 2021 and the manner of death was determined to be Homicide.
Investigators had already developed a suspect in the case. With the results of the ME's report, they then issued warrants for the arrest of Debra Barnes on charges of Criminal Homicide, Aggravated Child Abuse and Aggravated Child Neglect.
On November 8, 2021 CPD Officers responded to the parking lot of 2100 Hamilton Place Blvd and discovered Ms. Barnes deceased from an apparent suicide.
Chattanooga Police ask anyone with information regarding this incident to call the Homicide Tip Line at 423-643-5100 or submit a tip via the CPD Mobile App. You can remain anonymous.

Victim (deceased):

Vincent Carter (Male, 2)

Suspect (deceased):

Debra Barnes (Female, 62)

DOB 3/29/59

The investigation is ongoing and more information will be released when available.

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NOTE: The preceding information is preliminary and is subject to change as the investigation continues.

On November 12, 2021 at approximately 10:50 p.m., Chattanooga Police responded to the 6300 block of Wimberly Drive on a report of a person shot. The following are the preliminary facts of the investigation:

On November 7, 2021 at approximately 9:53 p.m., Chattanooga Police responded to the 2700 block of 6th Avenue on a report of a person shot. The following are the preliminary facts of the investigation: