A Familiar Voice Announces a Farewell

Longtime Chattanooga broadcaster David Carroll has announced that he will leave his anchor role at Local 3 on December 11, 2026.

The announcement, made during his Monday evening newscast, comes after 39 years at the station and a broadcasting career that began in radio.

For generations of Chattanooga viewers, Carroll has been a familiar presence delivering local news and reporting on the community.

A Career Rooted in Chattanooga

Carroll joined Channel 3 in 1987 following work at several area radio stations and a four-year stint on WDEF-TV's Morning Show.

His earlier radio experience included stations in South Pittsburg and Chattanooga.

At Local 3, he developed a long-running education beat through his School Patrol segments, visiting schools and introducing viewers to educators, students and community programs.

He has described that work as one of the accomplishments of which he is most proud.

An Enduring Anchor Partnership

Carroll and Cindy Sexton have worked as an on-air anchor team since 1992.

Carroll said that their partnership will conclude after approximately 34 years, making it a particularly long collaboration in local television news.

He also acknowledged co-workers and loyal viewers who have made the work rewarding over the years.

Why He Is Stepping Aside

Carroll said he began thinking seriously about reducing his schedule after years of combining television news with books, a weekend radio program and a newspaper column.

He said he looks forward to time with family, including more opportunities to visit his young grandson in Nashville.

Carroll has not announced a specific next professional project, and he remains open to future opportunities.

A Lasting Local Connection

Local television anchors often become part of viewers' daily routines, especially during major community events.

Over nearly four decades at Channel 3, Carroll covered celebrations and difficult moments in Chattanooga's history.

His planned departure in December marks the end of a notable chapter for local broadcasting, with several weeks remaining for viewers to see him at the anchor desk.