A three-year-old boy unknowingly led his grandfather to a scene of unimaginable tragedy earlier this week. His mother, Christina Chambers, and father, Johnny Rimes, were found deceased in their Hoover, Alabama home on Tuesday morning.
Authorities are investigating the deaths as a possible murder-suicide. The young child was present during the incident but thankfully remained physically unharmed, according to police reports.
The heartbreaking discovery unfolded after the couple failed to appear at a scheduled church event. Johnny Rimes’ father went to check on them shortly after 9 a.m., a neighbor, Charles Maple, recounted.
Upon arriving at the house, the little boy answered the door and led his grandfather inside. It was then they found the bodies, a detail shared by investigators with Maple.
“It is heartbreaking,” Maple stated, struggling to comprehend the devastating loss. The couple had lived in the quiet Hoover neighborhood for seven years, initially appearing happy and settled.
However, a shift occurred after the birth of their son. Maple noted a subtle but noticeable change in the dynamic between Christina and Johnny, a feeling that “something wasn’t right.”
News of Christina Chambers’ passing sent shockwaves through her former colleagues at WBRC 6. An emotional tribute was aired Tuesday night, celebrating her life and contributions as both a journalist and educator.
Reporter Gillian Brooks remembered Chambers as someone who instantly felt like a friend. Many at the station were stunned to be speaking about her in the past tense, recognizing the lasting impact she had on their lives.
Chambers joined WBRC 6 in 2015, quickly becoming a familiar face on the “Sideline” program, known for her vibrant coverage of local sports. She even anchored marathons while simultaneously competing in them.
After transitioning to a teaching position in July 2021, she continued to contribute to WBRC 6 as a freelance reporter, covering the upcoming 2025 football season.
She found fulfillment in broadcast journalism education at Thompson High School, where she was recently honored as the 2024 Advisor of the Year by the Alabama Scholastic Press Association.
Those who knew her described Chambers as incredibly kind, dedicated to her son, and passionate about life. A colleague, Jeh Jeh Pruitt, recalled a loving embrace and heartfelt exchange just a week prior to the tragedy.
Pruitt expressed deep sorrow for the Chambers and Thompson families, as well as the entire WBRC 6 team, remembering Chambers’ relentless spirit in running, motherhood, and embracing every moment.
