Clear, cool start Thursday with highs near 84°F. Dry and sunny through the weekend; showers may return early next week.

Police warned after a bear was seen in north Clinton Wednesday; officials posted safety steps and a non‑emergency line for sightings. Authorities urge residents to secure attractants and report sightings.

An employee at the Blount County Sheriff’s Office was placed on unpaid administrative leave after multiple allegations; prosecutors have asked the TBI to investigate. Officials have not released details.

TDHS adopted broad‑based categorical eligibility for SNAP, raising the gross‑income cutoff to 200% and easing asset rules — a change that could expand benefits to more working families across Tennessee.

A Tampa man went on trial in Hamilton County after a 2023 Frazier Avenue crash that killed a mother and her toddler and left the father with severe injuries.

Clear, dry conditions through Friday with highs near 80–86°F. Storm chances increase Sunday into next week.

The Tennessee Legislature approved a package that ties vehicle registration to proof of insurance and lawful presence, and raises fines for uninsured drivers. Key rules kick in in 2027.

Rachael Ellis, a longtime Second Harvest operations and development leader, will become CEO on June 27. The Maryville nonprofit credits her with helping expand emergency distribution and donor support.

KnoxConnect, unveiled by Commissioner Larsen Jay, would sink parts of Neyland Drive and James White Parkway and build parks and retail on top to reconnect downtown, UT and the riverfront. The plan is pitched as privately produced and phased to attract investment.

Knoxville Crime Stoppers named Markeyta Loverson wanted on an aggravated assault warrant. Tips can be submitted anonymously by text, phone, app or online; a reward is available.

Two Elizabethton residents were arrested after alleged vandalism at U.S. Forest Service recreation sites around Watauga Lake; one faces a sex-exploitation charge.

A paddle on the Emory River near Oakdale went wrong when heavy rain sent five kayakers into the current; locals and multi‑agency crews pulled everyone to shore and recovered gear.

Athens will pair a 600‑drone America 250 light show with its July 4 Buddy Liner fireworks at Athens Regional Park, plus a free concert and family activities.