Chattanooga, August 13, 2025
News Summary
Hamilton County Schools have closed as severe flooding and deteriorating road conditions impact the region. The decision was made to ensure the safety of students and staff. Residents are urged to stay updated on weather conditions and travel advisories. Additionally, a Hamilton County School safety officer has been arrested for domestic assault and impersonating a police officer, raising concerns about security personnel in schools during this challenging time.
Chattanooga – Hamilton County Schools will be closed on Wednesday, August 13, due to severe flooding across the region. The decision comes in response to deteriorating road conditions, prompting a cancellation of classes originally set to operate under a two-hour delay. A formal announcement regarding the closure will be made at 7:00 AM if conditions do not improve.
Residents have been cautioned as flood warnings remain active until late Tuesday night. The state had already faced significant rainfall, affecting multiple locations within Hamilton County, including Chattanooga, Altamont, and Dalton, which have experienced various weather conditions generally consisting of cloud cover and rain showers with temperatures ranging between 84°F to 87°F.
Adding to the concerns in the community, a Hamilton County School safety officer, Brittani King, was arrested on charges of domestic assault and impersonating a police officer. The arrest took place after officers were called to investigate reports that King was showing signs of intoxication and acting aggressively. Witness accounts indicated she had forcibly taken a phone from a roommate’s hand while asserting she was a “fellow officer” during her encounter with law enforcement.
Following the booking process and verification, it was revealed that King does not hold any credentials as a police officer or School Resource Officer (SRO); she was merely a School Safety Officer (SSO). In response to the incident, the school district has assigned an alternate security officer to Lookout Mountain Elementary School, where King was employed.
This unfortunate event has raised questions about the safety and integrity of security personnel within the school system during a time when the community is already under stress from weather-related challenges.
Residents are advised to take precautions while traveling, monitor local weather updates, and stay tuned for further announcements from the Hamilton County Schools administration regarding reopening and any additional safety measures being implemented.
Flooding Conditions in Hamilton County
Heavy rain has contributed to the flooding conditions impacting several areas in Hamilton County. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for flooding, and residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel until authorities indicate that it is safe. Many local roads may become impassable, and precaution is advised for those living near rivers or low-lying areas.
Details of Officer King’s Incident
The circumstances surrounding Brittani King’s arrest have drawn public scrutiny. The nature of her behavior, the allegations of intoxication, and her claims of being a police officer have prompted a review of the procedures and oversight regarding school safety personnel. The district is expected to undertake an examination of safety protocols in light of this event.
School District’s Response
In addition to the appointment of a new security officer, the Hamilton County Schools administration is likely to issue further communication regarding policy changes and preventive measures to ensure the safety of students and staff in the wake of both the flooding and this incident. The district’s priority remains the welfare and security of its students amid these recent challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Hamilton County Schools closed?
Hamilton County Schools are closed due to severe flooding affecting road conditions in the area.
What charges were brought against the school safety officer?
Brittani King was charged with domestic assault and impersonating a police officer following an incident involving aggressive behavior and claims of being a law enforcement officer.
What is the school district doing in response to the flooding?
The school district is monitoring road conditions and will issue announcements regarding school operations based on safety assessments.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| School Closure | Hamilton County Schools closed on August 13 due to severe flooding. |
| Flood Warnings | Active flood warnings remain in place until late Tuesday night. |
| Officer Arrested | Brittani King arrested for domestic assault and impersonating a police officer. |
| Safety Measures | Alternate security assigned to Lookout Mountain Elementary School. |
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Hamilton County Schools on Delay Following Severe Flooding
- Wikipedia: Hamilton County, Tennessee
- News Channel 9: Chattanooga School Safety Officer Arrested
- Google Search: Chattanooga school safety incident
- Times Free Press: Lookout Mountain School Security Officer Charged
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- ABC News: High School Seniors in Tennessee
- Google News: Chattanooga school shooting
- News Channel 9: High School Football Jamboree Kicks Off
- Google Scholar: School Safety
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.
