Tragic Death of Former Sports Reporter Christina Chambers Shocks Community — Murder-Suicide Investigation Underway
By [Usman M] | Updated December 20, 2025
HOOVER, Ala. — The Alabama community is reeling after former WBRC sports reporter Christina Chambers and her husband, Johnny Rimes Jr., were found dead in their Hoover home early Tuesday morning in what police are investigating as an apparent murder-suicide. https://www.wbrc.com+1
Emergency responders were called to the couple’s residence in the 700 block of Highland Manor Court around 9:00 a.m. local time after a family member found them unresponsive. Both Chambers and Rimes suffered gunshot wounds, and were pronounced dead at the scene. People.com
Three-Year-Old Son Unharmed, Community in Mourning
Authorities confirmed that the couple’s 3-year-old son was inside the house at the time of the incident but was physically unharmed. According to reports, the child opened the door for his grandfather — who then discovered the tragic scene inside. Fox News
The Hoover Police Department has not released details about a motive or officially confirmed which partner was responsible, but investigators are treating the case as a murder-suicide. Officials have assured the public there is no ongoing threat to the wider community. EW.com
Christina Chambers: Journalist, Educator, and Community Figure
Chambers, 38, was widely respected for both her journalism and her later work as an educator. She began her career in sports broadcasting with WBRC 6 News in Birmingham in 2015, becoming a familiar face on Friday night sports coverage and special events like the Mercedes Marathon. After leaving her full-time role in July 2021, she continued to freelance for WBRC’s “Sideline” coverage during the 2025 football season. https://www.wtvm.com
Following her broadcasting career, Chambers became the director of the Broadcasting Academy at Thompson High School, where she inspired dozens of students and earned accolades including the Alabama Scholastic Press Association’s 2024 Advisor of the Year award. Her teams won multiple state-level journalism honors under her leadership. 101.5 KGB
Community leaders, colleagues, and even sports figures have shared heartfelt tributes in the days since her death. Auburn University coach Steven Pearl remembered Chambers as “a beacon” in Alabama sports media, praising her warmth, passion, and professionalism. Yahoo Sports
Funeral Arrangements Announced
Visitation for Chambers will be held Sunday, December 21, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home in Cullman, Alabama, with a rosary to follow. A funeral service is scheduled for Monday, December 22, at Sacred Heart Church. A Celebration of Life event is planned prior to the service, honoring her impact both personally and professionally. https://www.wtvm.com
A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to support her son’s future educational and personal needs, as family and friends continue to grieve the sudden loss. https://www.wtvm.com
Why This Story Matters
This tragedy highlights pressing issues around domestic violence, mental health, and community support for grieving families — especially during the holiday season. With Christina Chambers’ legacy spanning media and education, the impact of her loss continues to unfold across Alabama and beyond.