July 16, 2025

Chattanooga Police Search for Missing Endangered Teenager

News Summary

The Chattanooga Police Department is searching for 16-year-old La’Darius Idlette, who left home without permission and is considered endangered. Authorities are appealing to the public for information. In related incidents, two other teenagers are missing after jumping into the Tennessee River from the I-75 bridge following a police chase. Recovery efforts are underway, involving multiple agencies. Families are being supported as authorities emphasize community awareness in locating missing persons.

Chattanooga Police Seek Public’s Help in Finding Missing Endangered Teenagers

The Chattanooga Police Department is actively searching for a missing, endangered teenager, 16-year-old La’Darius Idlette. Idlette left home without permission and has not been heard from since.

Idlette is described as 6’0″ tall, weighing approximately 130 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Authorities are urging anyone who may have information on Idlette’s whereabouts to contact the Chattanooga Police at 423-698-2525.

In a related situation, two other missing teenagers from Chattanooga are currently the subject of a search and recovery operation after they jumped into the Tennessee River from the I-75 bridge following a police pursuit tied to a suspected stolen vehicle. The incident began early Wednesday morning when the police pursued the teenagers, ultimately leading to their abandonment of the vehicle on the Tennessee River Bridge

Recent Developments in the Recovery Efforts

One of the teenagers involved has been hospitalized and is in stable condition, while the body of another teenager has been recovered from the river. The rescued teen has provided statements indicating that they jumped over a barrier, believing they could land safely in the water.

The recovery operations for the missing individuals have involved multiple agencies, including the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office, and local emergency management services. These agencies have employed various technologies, such as drones, sonar, and Remote Operated Vehicles (ROVs), to conduct thorough underwater searches.

Families of the missing teenagers have been notified, and the sheriff’s office has been coordinating closely with them during this distressing time. Authorities have also requested the public to refrain from inquiries that could divert attention from ongoing recovery efforts.

Current Status of the Search

A second body has recently been recovered during the search, which is believed to belong to one of the teenage individuals who went missing. As search operations progress, it has been acknowledged that they are now primarily focused on recovery due to challenging water conditions stemming from the nearby Ft. Loudon Dam.

The identities of the missing teenagers have not been released publicly due to their ages, with the oldest being 18 years old. The situation remains serious, with community members expressing their concerns for the safety of the missing individuals.

Importance of Community Awareness

The Chattanooga Police Department continues to emphasize the importance of community awareness in locating missing persons. Any assistance from local residents could significantly aid in the ongoing search efforts. The cooperation between law enforcement and the community is crucial during this challenging time as families await news regarding their loved ones.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tennessee River Recovery Mission: Body Found as Search Continues
Chattanooga Community Shaken by Double Shooting Incident
Juveniles Charged After Armed Weapons Theft in Chattanooga

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.

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