News Summary
Reginald Dewayne Woods-Oakley was arrested for allegedly stabbing a daycare owner during a financial dispute. Witnesses reported seeing him demand money before attacking. The victim was hospitalized, and Woods-Oakley later fled the scene but was apprehended by authorities. He faces serious charges including attempted murder and aggravated burglary, and is being held on a $300,000 bond. The incident showcases the dangerous escalation of financial disputes within families.
Chattanooga Man Arrested for Stabbing Girlfriend at Daycare Over Financial Dispute
A Chattanooga man, Reginald Dewayne Woods-Oakley, was arrested on November 4, 2024, for allegedly stabbing a family member at a daycare in an incident linked to a financial dispute. Police responded to reports of an assault at approximately 5:40 PM, where they discovered the daycare owner suffering from multiple stab wounds.
The victim, who operates the daycare, was taken to a hospital immediately following the incident. Witnesses at the scene reported that Woods-Oakley arrived at the daycare demanding money related to a previous settlement worth $17,000. When the victim informed him that no funds were available and requested that he leave, Woods-Oakley allegedly grew aggressive. He then pulled out a knife, attacking the victim multiple times.
Witnesses recounted hearing the victim pleading for Woods-Oakley to stop before they ventured into the office area to find her injured. After the attack, Woods-Oakley reportedly discarded the knife in the backyard of a neighboring house and fled the scene in a black SUV.
The victim and a daycare employee expressed concerns that Woods-Oakley had intended to kill the victim during this violent altercation. Following the incident, authorities issued warrants for Woods-Oakley’s arrest, and he was subsequently apprehended in Catoosa County.
Once in custody, Woods-Oakley was booked at the Hamilton County Jail and Detention Center, facing serious charges including attempted murder and aggravated burglary. He is currently being held on a $300,000 bond and is set to appear in court on May 5, 2025.
Details of the Incident
The stabbing incident underscores significant tensions related to financial disputes within familial relationships. Witnesses present at the daycare described a scene of chaos and distress as the altercation unfolded, with the victim’s desperate pleas for safety resonating in the tense environment.
Emergency responders acted swiftly, transporting the victim to the hospital as they began their investigation into the incident. The swift actions taken by law enforcement were critical in both apprehending the alleged assailant and ensuring that the victim received immediate medical attention.
Legal Consequences
Woods-Oakley now faces severe legal repercussions due to his actions. The charges of attempted murder and aggravated burglary could result in a lengthy prison sentence if he is convicted. The legal system will now determine the outcomes of these charges during his upcoming court appearance.
Background Context
Financial disputes can often escalate into serious conflicts within families, highlighting the potential for violence in high-stress situations. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the lengths individuals may go to in pursuit of financial entitlements, and it raises questions about conflict resolution methods in familial and financial relationships.
The daycare, which was the site of this violent episode, remains a critical space in the community for children and families. The impact of such an incident reverberates beyond the immediate parties involved, affecting the sense of safety and security within the local environment.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the community of Chattanooga watches closely, hoping for resolution and justice following this tragic event.
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Chattanooga Daycare Stabbing Involves Family Member in Money Dispute
Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Man Wanted for Stabbing Family Member at Chattanooga Daycare
- News Channel 9: TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Chattanooga
- Times Free Press: Autopsy from Christmas Eve Police Shooting
- Chattanoogan: 2 Men Face Assault Charges After Knife Incident
- Fox 17 News: 6 Assaulted in Chattanooga Home Invasion
- Wikipedia: Conflict Resolution
- Google Search: Chattanooga daycare stabbing
- Google Scholar: Financial Disputes Violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Family Violence
- Google News: Chattanooga Criminal Incidents

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.


