Authorities in Hoover, Alabama, are currently investigating a devastating incident involving Christina Chambers, a respected former WBRC sports reporter, and her husband, Johnny Rimes. The couple was discovered deceased from gunshot wounds in their home on Tuesday morning. The situation is being treated as an apparent murder-suicide.
The Hoover Police Department was notified about the situation by a relative at approximately 9 a.m. Upon arrival, officers found that both adults had succumbed to their injuries. They confirmed the safety of the couple's three-year-old child, who was found unharmed. The police have reassured the community that there is no ongoing threat but have stated that the investigation is still in the preliminary phase.
Christina Chambers had been a familiar face on WBRC's "Sideline" program since joining the station in 2015. She covered high school athletics with passion and participated in marathon events, often providing commentary while racing. Although she transitioned from her full-time role in July 2021 to focus on education, Chambers continued to freelance for WBRC, covering the 2025 football season.
In her role as a broadcast journalism teacher at Thompson High School in Alabaster, Chambers mentored students and significantly developed the school's media program. Under her guidance, the program achieved numerous accolades, such as the 2024 Alabama Scholastic Press Association Advisor of the Year and the 2025 Alex House Journalism Sustainability Award.
Dr. Wayne Vickers, Superintendent, praised Chambers for her impact, saying, "She brought her deep knowledge and love of sports reporting to Friday nights, leaving a lasting impression on students, colleagues, and viewers alike."
Chambers was also an employee at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, where she worked in corporate communications. The company expressed their sorrow over her passing, highlighting her warm personality and positive influence on her team and the company.
Her colleagues and the community remember Chambers as a devoted mother and journalist. WBRC anchor Jeh Jeh Pruitt remarked on her loving nature and zeal for life, while Alabama Sen. Katie Boyd Britt offered condolences through social media.
A graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she was a Division I athlete, Chambers's career spanned various roles in sports reporting, including stints at WAKA, WLTZ NBC38, and Comcast Sports Southeast.
As the investigation into the circumstances of the deaths continues, the community mourns the loss of a figure known for her dedication, energy, and empathy. Colleagues and friends share their memories on social media, painting a picture of someone who lived life with grace and humility.
