The heartbreaking story of Christina Chambers, beloved Alabama sports reporter and educator, has gripped communities after her tragic death alongside husband Johnny Rimes. Ruled a murder-suicide by Hoover Police, the incident unfolded in their family home where their unharmed 3-year-old son played a devastating role—opening the door for grandpa who discovered the bodies Tuesday morning.
Christina Chambers, 38, and Rimes were found deceased around 9 a.m. after missing a church event. Rimes’ father arrived concerned, greeted by the toddler who led him inside to the horrific scene. Neighbor Charles Maple called it “heartbreaking,” noting the child’s innocent actions amid unimaginable loss.
Christina Chambers Career: From Sideline Star to Award-Winning Teacher
Christina Chambers shone brightly in Birmingham media. Joining WBRC 6 in 2015, she became a fixture on the “Sideline” primetime sports show, delivering live coverage from high school football fields to marathons she ran herself. Her infectious energy and sideline reporting earned her widespread admiration.
In July 2021, Christina Chambers transitioned to teaching broadcast journalism at Thompson High School. Honored as 2024 Advisor of the Year by the Alabama Scholastic Press Association, she mentored students with the same passion that defined her reporting career. She freelanced for WBRC’s 2025 football season, bridging her media roots with education.
Colleagues aired emotional tributes Tuesday night. Reporter Gillian Brooks said, “Christina had a beautiful ability to feel like a friend immediately.” Anchor Jeh Jeh Pruitt remembered her as “relentless with running, loving her son, and loving life,” noting a recent hug at Super 7.
What Happened to Christina Chambers: Timeline of the Hoover Tragedy
The Christina Chambers case timeline reveals a family’s private struggles:
- Tuesday Morning: Couple misses church; grandpa arrives.
- 9 a.m.: 3-year-old opens door, leads to bodies.
- Police Response: Hoover PD confirms murder-suicide; child unharmed.
- Evening Tribute: WBRC honors her legacy.
Neighbors described the couple as seemingly happy after moving to Hoover seven years ago. Post-childbirth, tensions emerged—”something wasn’t right,” per Maple—though details remain private pending investigation.
| Milestone | Details |
| WBRC Join | 2015 – Sideline host |
| Teaching Start | July 2021 – Thompson HS |
| Award | 2024 Advisor of Year |
| Freelance | 2025 Football coverage |
| Death | Dec 16, 2025 (age 38) |
Christina Chambers Legacy: Impact on Sports, Students, and Family
Christina Chambers left an indelible mark. As a marathon runner who anchored her own races, she embodied perseverance. Her teaching inspired young journalists, while motherhood defined her final years. WBRC called her a “bright light” whose impact endures.
The tragedy spotlights domestic violence warning signs. Hoover PD urges resources for those in crisis. The 3-year-old, now with family, survived unscathed— a small mercy amid profound grief.
Support Resources:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Child Help: 1-800-422-4453
- Local Alabama services via Hoover PD
Christina Chambers‘ story reminds us of life’s fragility and the power of community legacies.
From sports fields to classrooms, her warmth touched thousands. Share memories below—rest in peace, Christina.