Hoover, Alabama, a suburban community south of Birmingham, is grappling with profound sadness following the discovery of two residents deceased in their home on December 16, 2025. Former WBRC Fox 6 sports reporter Christina Chambers, 38, and her husband, Johnny Rimes Jr., 41, were found with fatal gunshot wounds in what authorities have described as an apparent domestic incident resulting in murder-suicide. Their three-year-old son, Constantine, was present in the residence but remained unharmed and was safely removed from the scene.

The Hoover Police Department responded to a welfare check call at approximately 9:03 a.m. on Tuesday at a home in the 700 block of Highland Manor Court. A family member had arrived after the couple failed to attend a scheduled church event earlier that morning, raising concerns. According to neighbor accounts shared with media, the relative was greeted at the door by the young child, who then led to the discovery of the unresponsive adults. Officers and Hoover Fire-Medics arrived promptly, pronouncing both Chambers and Rimes deceased at 9:12 a.m.

Captain Keith Czeskleba of the Hoover Police Department stated that the preliminary investigation points to a murder-suicide, with no indication of external involvement or ongoing threat to the public. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed the causes of death as gunshot wounds, occurring sometime between 6:15 a.m. and the time of discovery. Detectives continue to process the scene and gather evidence, though specifics about the sequence of events or potential motives have not been released pending further review.

Christina Chambers built a respected career in broadcast journalism, particularly in sports reporting across the Southeast. A native of Cullman, Alabama, she graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2009 with a degree in mass communication and media studies. Her professional journey began at WLTZ NBC 38 in Columbus, Georgia, where she served as a sports and news reporter for several years. She later contributed as a sideline reporter and halftime host for Comcast Sports Southeast in Atlanta, covering regional events including Auburn University athletics and high school playoffs.

In 2015, Chambers joined WBRC Fox 6 in Birmingham as a full-time sports reporter, quickly becoming a staple in the station’s coverage of local and collegiate sports. Colleagues remembered her for breaking into an all-male sports team and elevating the department with her energy and insight. She developed a strong affinity for University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Blazers athletics and high school football, often highlighting community stories. Chambers left her full-time position in 2021 following her marriage to Rimes but continued freelancing, providing sideline reports for the station’s high school football coverage through the 2025 season.

Beyond broadcasting, Chambers channeled her expertise into education. She served as director of the Broadcasting Academy at Alabaster City Schools’ Thompson High School, leading the THS TV program. Under her guidance, students achieved notable accolades, including the Alex House Journalism Sustainability Award in 2025, SkillsUSA State Championships, and All-Alabama Broadcast Awards. She mentored emerging journalists, drawing on her industry experience to prepare them for real-world challenges. Additionally, Chambers worked in communications and public relations, including a role at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama.

Friends and former coworkers described Chambers as warm, witty, and deeply committed to her faith and family. She was an active member of her church community, where her absence from a morning event prompted the initial concern. Tributes poured in from across the Alabama media landscape. WBRC issued a statement expressing heartbreak, noting her lasting impact on the newsroom and viewers. “Christina was a valued member of our newsroom and a beloved colleague whose warmth, humor, and passion for sports left a lasting impact on everyone who worked with her,” the station said. They highlighted her professionalism and genuine care, adding that she was “especially proud of her ties to UAB, high school sports, and her community.”

Rick Karle, a longtime WBRC sports anchor, shared personal reflections, emphasizing her faith and devotion as a mother. Alabaster City Schools Superintendent Dr. Wayne Vickers praised her contributions to students, stating she brought “deep knowledge and love of sports reporting” to the program, inspiring young broadcasters. ESPN reporter Lauren Sisler called the loss “heavy on our hearts,” referring to Chambers as a dear friend in the TV community.

Johnny Rimes Jr., a University of Alabama graduate, worked as a financial analyst at American Cast Iron Pipe Company in Birmingham. The couple married in 2021 and welcomed their son Constantine shortly thereafter. Family life appeared centered around their child, with Chambers often expressing adoration for motherhood in public and professional contexts. Neighbors described the family as quiet and unassuming, with no prior reports of disturbances at the residence.

The incident has prompted an outpouring of support in Hoover and surrounding areas. Community members gathered informally to share memories, while media outlets focused on Chambers’ positive legacy. Local leaders and journalism organizations extended condolences, underscoring the ripple effects on colleagues, students, and viewers who followed her work.

Authorities have not disclosed additional details about the family’s background or any contributing factors, respecting the ongoing investigation. The Hoover Police Department encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward, though they reiterated no broader public safety concerns.

In the wake of the tragedy, attention has turned to the well-being of the young child, now in the care of relatives. Support resources for grief and mental health have been highlighted in local coverage, with reminders of available hotlines for those affected by similar situations.

Chambers’ career spanned a transformative period in sports media, where she contributed to greater diversity in reporting roles. Her transition to education reflected a desire to pass on skills to the next generation, evident in the successes of her students. Freelance work kept her connected to live events, allowing her to cover Friday night high school games that are a cultural cornerstone in Alabama.

Former stations where she worked also acknowledged her influence. WAKA in Montgomery, where she anchored sports prior to WBRC, noted her early accomplishments. Her time in Georgia and Atlanta built foundational experience in competitive markets.

The Birmingham area, known for its vibrant sports scene from high school rivalries to SEC football, felt the loss acutely. Chambers’ coverage often humanized athletes and coaches, focusing on personal stories alongside scores.

As investigations proceed, the community continues to reflect on her contributions. Memorials and tributes emphasize her role as an encourager, both on air and off. Students from Thompson High School shared how she fostered creativity and confidence in broadcasting.

This event joins a series of personal tragedies affecting public figures, prompting discussions on support systems within high-pressure professions like journalism. Colleagues have organized internal resources to process the grief.

Hoover, a growing city with strong community ties, has seen residents rally around those impacted. Church groups, where the family was involved, provided immediate assistance.

The story of Christina Chambers illustrates a life dedicated to storytelling, education, and family. Her sudden passing leaves a void in Alabama’s media and educational landscapes, remembered for bringing enthusiasm to sports coverage and mentorship to young talents.

Details emerging from the scene paint a picture of a routine morning disrupted. The family member’s prompt action ensured the child’s safety, a small consolation amid the sorrow.

Police Chief Clay Morris addressed the media briefly, affirming commitment to a thorough inquiry while prioritizing sensitivity.

National outlets picked up the story due to Chambers’ recognizable role in regional broadcasting, amplifying tributes from afar.

As December holidays approach, the timing adds layers to the community’s mourning. Plans for formal remembrances may follow as arrangements are made.

Chambers’ freelance sideline work in 2025 kept her visible during football season, delighting fans with insightful reports.

Her educational awards underscore programmatic growth under her leadership, benefiting dozens of students pursuing media careers.

Former teammates at WBRC recalled collaborative moments, from game coverage to newsroom camaraderie.

The couple’s home in a quiet subdivision contrasted with the public nature of Chambers’ career, highlighting private challenges faced by many.

Support extends to first responders and investigators handling the case.

This incident serves as a reminder of life’s fragility, prompting reflections on cherished relationships and community bonds.

Christina Chambers’ legacy endures through inspired students, archived broadcasts, and memories shared by those she touched.