A former sports reporter, along with her husband, were found dead in their home in Hoover, Alabama in what local law enforcement authorities are calling a murder-suicide. Neighbors of Christina Chambers and her husband Johnny Rimes described her as a warm, caring, and kind-hearted individual and a loving mother. One person in the neighborhood, Charles Maple, was interviewed following the tragic incident.
“I cried. I cried because, you know, like I said, when you when you see somebody that is that special, I don’t know how you couldn’t,” neighbor Charles Maple told the media. Maple also said that Chambers was an excellent neighbor and an exceptional athlete, but more than anything, she was a fantastic mother. Many of those who knew Chambers say they are devastated by the loss of their friend and loved one.
Chambers formerly worked as a reporter for WBRC Fox 6. “Christina was a valued member of our newsroom and a beloved colleague whose warmth, humor, and passion for sports left a lasting impact on everyone who worked with her. Christina was an accomplished journalist and athlete who brought energy, professionalism, and genuine care to her work. She was especially proud of her ties to UAB, high school sports, and her community,” a spokesperson for the network said.
A 3-year-old boy was found at the horrific scene, but thankfully he was unharmed. Rimes’ father showed up at the couple’s home a little after 9 a.m. after they didn’t show up at a pre-scheduled church event, according to a report from Fox News. When he arrived at the front door, he was greeted by the boy who then let him into the house.
Six months after the horrid event, reporter Rick Karle, a close friend and colleague of Chambers, revealed that the network and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama did something beautiful for the little boy’s birthday. The company delivered a bike to Chambers’ son, Constantine, to celebrate his special day. “I’d like to give a shout out to the good folks at the corporate communications division at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, who surprised Constantine with a new bike on his birthday last weekend,” Karle said on Facebook.
“Christina was a valued member of the team- her passing last December left holes in the hearts of the folks at BCBS along with thousands in the world of broadcasting and education,” the post continued. “I miss Christina to this day. She worked with me and others for years at WBRC 6 News. She was a talented reporter, a fantastic teacher at Thompson High School, a world class marathoner and a wonderful daughter, sister and mother.”
“I’m glad the Blue Cross Blue Shield folks stopped by Chambers Farm And Garden Supply to surprise Constantine with his special birthday gift,” the reporter said, adding, “May Constantine enjoy his new ride and the wind in his face. May that wind carry Christina’s spirit his way.” The comments were full of compassion for Constantine and his tragic loss.
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“Rick, Miss Jefferson County & Miss Jefferson County Teen are honoring Christina tonight with an Impact Award. The pageant is at 5 pm at Mortimer Jordan High School and everyone is welcome to come. Would love to see you there,” one commenter wrote. “The members of the BCBS Corporate Comms team are wonderful! Happy birthday to Constantine!” another stated.
“May God bless this precious child and those who care for him. It is unbelievable to think someone was so troubled that they knew no other way but to inflict such violence and suffering. So many people now live in pain. It is heartbreaking even for those who did not know the families. Please God grant these families the comfort, peace, and love that only come from you! ” a third individual commented.
Featured Image: screenshot from embedded video