HB1939 would cap DCS caseworkers at 12 active assessment cases and require 12‑month resolutions; backers praise safety gains while the fiscal note warns of big hiring costs.

Knox County has identified 65-year-old Donna Lee Ann Widener as the person who died in a March 10 house fire on Bays Mountain Road; investigators continue to probe the cause.

McMinn Central says its new OPENGATE portal screened about 515 students on day one, with administrators praising careful planning and thanking families.

An acquaintance has been charged with felony murder after 83-year-old Teddy Turner was found dead at his Livingston home, authorities say.

Warm Wednesday heats into the low 70s with very dry air and gusty winds; rain returns Friday to cool things off. Residents should avoid outdoor burning while humidity is low.

Blount Memorial filed a state WARN notice for 85 employees as Prisma Health outsources Food and Nutrition Services and Environmental Services to Compass Healthcare subsidiaries, with the vast majority of affected workers expected to be rehired by the contractor and remain at the hospital.

A Knox County judge will appoint an independent guardian ad litem to represent two children as competing lawsuits over their mother’s 2023 death and her estate move forward. The court step aims to protect the kids while civil claims proceed.

Andy’s Frozen Custard holds a Friday ribbon-cutting on the Parkway with $2 sundaes, giveaways and a chance to win free custard for a year.

A Knox County grand jury returned presentments charging Douglas James Peek II with aggravated sexual battery and observing minors; the filing names two victims under 13.

A former Oak Ridge officer pleaded guilty to 23 counts of official misconduct Monday; the plea carries short jail stints, probation and surrender of his law-enforcement certification.

Mostly sunny and mild through Wednesday; warming into the upper 70s Thursday with gusty southwest winds and a chance of Friday showers.

A car fleeing an unmarked law‑enforcement vehicle struck a Knox County Sheriff’s narcotics vehicle in East Knoxville, leaving three people injured, officials say.

Floyd Bedford, wanted on multiple felony warrants out of Knoxville, was arrested Monday in Jonesborough. Crime Stoppers posted the capture and urged tips to investigators.