Chattanooga, TN, August 30, 2025
News Summary
A young woman and a teenage boy in Chattanooga have been arrested after a tragic incident involving the drowning of a 3-year-old boy in their care and significant abuse found on a 1-year-old boy. The suspects face serious charges, including aggravated child abuse, as authorities investigate the distressing circumstances surrounding the case. The surviving child is hospitalized, and Child Protective Services is involved to ensure his safety.
Chattanooga Woman and Teenage Boy Arrested After 3-Year-Old Drowns and 1-Year-Old Shows Signs of Abuse
Chattanooga, Tennessee – A 21-year-old woman named Janecia McKevie and a 17-year-old boy have been arrested following the tragic drowning of a 3-year-old boy in their care, as well as the discovery of significant abuse inflicted on a 1-year-old boy. Both suspects face serious criminal charges related to these incidents.
The events unfolded at an apartment located on the 2300 block of Wilson Street. Officers responded to a distress call regarding an unresponsive child at around 9:10 a.m. on a Thursday. Despite first responders’ attempts to perform life-saving measures, the 3-year-old was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Upon investigation, authorities noted clear evidence of abuse on the deceased child and observed severe injuries on the surviving 1-year-old boy. During police interviews, the teenage suspect admitted to the abuse of both children, and investigators revealed that McKevie was aware of the maltreatment but did not notify law enforcement.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
As a result of the investigation, both Janecia McKevie and the 17-year-old boy have been charged with two counts of aggravated assault and two counts of aggravated child abuse. The teenage suspect is currently being held at the Hamilton County Juvenile Detention Center, while McKevie is in custody at the Hamilton County Jail.
The surviving 1-year-old boy remains hospitalized. In light of the disturbing circumstances surrounding the case, Child Protective Services has become involved to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.
Call for Information
Chattanooga Police are seeking assistance from the public. Authorities encourage anyone with relevant information regarding this case to contact them at 423-698-2525.
Background Context
This incident has raised serious concerns about child safety and abuse within the community. The abuse and tragic death of the young children have shocked many residents and highlighted the importance of vigilance regarding the welfare of minors. The investigation continues as law enforcement seeks to piece together the full extent of the situation. Assistance from the public could help shed light on this harrowing case.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What were the charges against Janecia McKevie and the 17-year-old boy?
They face charges of two counts of aggravated assault and two counts of aggravated child abuse.
2. What happened to the 3-year-old child?
The child was found unresponsive and subsequently pronounced dead at a hospital after life-saving efforts were made.
3. How is the surviving 1-year-old boy being cared for?
The 1-year-old is currently hospitalized, and Child Protective Services is involved to ensure his safety.
4. How can the public assist in this case?
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Chattanooga Police at 423-698-2525.
Key Features of the Incident
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 2300 block of Wilson Street, Chattanooga, TN |
| Victims | 3-year-old boy (deceased), 1-year-old boy (injured) |
| Suspects | Janecia McKevie (21), 17-year-old boy |
| Charges | 2 counts of aggravated assault, 2 counts of aggravated child abuse |
| Current Status | Surviving child hospitalized, CPS involved, suspects in custody |
| Contact for Information | Chattanooga Police: 423-698-2525 |
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Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
