Chattanooga, TN, September 2, 2025
News Summary
In Chattanooga, Dontrell Webb has been arrested for allegedly beating his twelve-year-old niece as a punishment over chores. The incident resulted in multiple injuries to the child. Additionally, two individuals have been charged in connection with the drowning death of a three-year-old. These alarming cases have raised concerns regarding child safety in the community, prompting investigations and the involvement of Child Protective Services. Community leaders emphasize the importance of vigilance in recognizing signs of abuse.
Chattanooga Man Arrested for Allegedly Beating Niece and Other Incidents of Child Abuse
A Chattanooga man, Dontrell Webb, has been arrested following allegations that he beat his twelve-year-old niece with a belt due to a dispute over chores. The incident took place on August 29th on McGowan Road, prompting authorities to respond to a call regarding child abuse.
According to the arrest report, the young girl sustained multiple injuries, affecting her legs, arms, chest, back, and face. The child reportedly fought back against Webb after being struck, and law enforcement arrived shortly thereafter. Webb is currently in custody facing charges of child neglect.
Additional Child Abuse Arrests
In a separate incident, two individuals, 21-year-old Janecia McKevie and a 17-year-old boy, have been charged in connection with the drowning death of a 3-year-old child under their care. Emergency responders were called to the 2300 block of Wilson Street after the child was reported unresponsive. Life-saving measures were performed but were ultimately unsuccessful, and the child was pronounced dead at a hospital.
Investigators discovered significant signs of abuse on the deceased child as well as on the child’s 1-year-old brother, who is currently hospitalized. The 17-year-old admitted to abusing both children, while McKevie acknowledged that she was aware of the abuse but did not report it. Both face two counts each of aggravated assault and aggravated child abuse.
Involvement of Child Protective Services
Following these troubling incidents, Child Protective Services has been involved with the surviving child, ensuring their safety and well-being in the aftermath of these events.
Additional Case of Child Neglect
Another troubling situation involves Misty Coleman, who was arrested for aggravated child abuse or neglect after reportedly running over a child’s ankle while taking her to school. The incident occurred at the Chattanooga Girl’s Leadership Academy, where security footage captured the moment after the child missed the bus. The vehicle, with its door still open, sped off, leading to serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the child’s injuries.
Community Response
These incidents have raised alarm within the Chattanooga community regarding child safety and protective protocols. Local authorities are actively investigating these cases, and community leaders stress the importance of vigilance in recognizing and reporting signs of abuse.
Key Information Recap
- Dontrell Webb arrested for beating his niece.
- Janecia McKevie and a 17-year-old charged in child drowning incident.
- Abuse signs discovered on both the deceased child and a surviving sibling.
- Misty Coleman arrested for child neglect after running over a child’s ankle.
Conclusion
These cases highlight the ongoing issues of child safety and neglect within the area, prompting a call for community awareness and action. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information about similar incidents to come forward in order to protect vulnerable children.
FAQs
What charges is Dontrell Webb facing?
Dontrell Webb is facing charges of child neglect following the alleged beating of his twelve-year-old niece.
What happened to the 3-year-old child reported as unresponsive?
The 3-year-old child was reported unresponsive, and despite emergency responders conducting life-saving measures, the child was pronounced dead at a hospital. Signs of abuse were found on both the deceased child and a surviving sibling.
What role is Child Protective Services playing in these cases?
Child Protective Services is involved with the surviving child, ensuring their safety and well-being following the incidents of abuse.
Summary of Key Incidents
| Incident | Involved Parties | Charges | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beating of 12-year-old niece | Dontrell Webb | Child Neglect | In Custody |
| Drowning of 3-year-old child | Janecia McKevie, 17-year-old boy | 2 counts of Aggravated Assault, 2 counts of Aggravated Child Abuse | Facing Charges |
| Running over child’s ankle | Misty Coleman | Aggravated Child Abuse or Neglect | Arrested |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- News Channel 9
- Fox 23 Maine
- Chattanooga Pulse
- WIFR
- Local 3 News
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse
- Google Search: Child Neglect
- Google News: Chattanooga Child Abuse
- Google Scholar: Child Abuse Cases

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.


