Nikki Hauser
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Anchor & video journalist @NC5
@Georgetown Hoya 🐶
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Articles by Nikki Hauser
Judge denies AES motion to dismiss in wrongful death lawsuits filed after Humphreys County explosion
Prev Next A judge denied AES's motion to dismiss wrongful death lawsuits filed by families of 16 people killed in the Humphreys County explosion. Posted HUMPHREYS COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — A judge denied Accurate Energetic Systems' (AES) motion to dismiss wrongful death lawsuits filed by families of the 16 people killed in the Humphreys County explosion, allowing the case to move forward.
Cornell rape case sparks outrage, reignites need for important conversations about sexual assault
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Outrage is intensifying at Cornell University two years after an alleged rape investigation by Cornell police did not lead to criminal charges. Since details of the lawsuit have been revealed, it's caught nationwide attention and sparked heated discourse. With a sensitive topic like sexual assault, this can be a hard conversation to have — but it's an important one.
Data centers are reshaping Tennessee communities — here's what experts want you to know
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The data center debate has arrived in Tennessee — and three Nashville-area researchers say the decisions being made right now will shape communities for generations.
Fans downtown celebrate inaugural Dolly Day
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It was a very special day Friday, honoring a legend close to our hearts. September 25 was officially declared Dolly Day in Nashville and several other cities across the US, and it was a success downtown. Several gathered outside Dolly's Songteller Hotel and Life of Many Colors Museum, set to open next Tuesday, to celebrate her legacy. "It just feels so special, we're all celebrating this one person...as a family. Uh oh, I have a tear!" said one fan.
Your sprinkler could be putting a strain on Nashville's water system
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — This year's scorching summer not only takes a toll on us, but on our city's water. With a strain on the system, Metro Water Services is now asking for your help. The heat has led to a natural uptick in water usage — but taking showers and keeping cool isn't the problem. It's your automatic sprinkler system. The utility company said everyone irrigating at the same time has made it harder for the city's pumping system to get water to the farthest-reaching areas.
Parents weigh in on new Waymo teen account
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Teenagers have a new way to get around town. The driverless rideshare app Waymo is debuting its latest feature — rides for teens with parental permission. Nashville is the second city to test it out. With a parent's consent, young riders ages 13 to 17 can now catch a driverless ride. The app is offering safety measures like shareable trips, so that parents can see their teen's location the whole time.
Heat advisory pushes back last 'Shakespeare in the Park' performances
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Shakespeare in the Park...or Shakespeare in the Heat? The Nashville Shakespeare Festival organizers are pushing back the last 'Shakespeare in the Park' performances to be closer to when the sun sets. An ongoing heat advisory prompted the adjustment. "It's really...really, really hot," said Susan Hammonds-White, a frequent visitor of the shows. "Like a weighted blanket that's full of coals.
Delivery truck driver intentionally crashes into Aldi grocery store in East Nashville
Prev Next Police say while delivering items to the Aldi on Gallatin Avenue, the driver, 34-year-old Kristofer Scruggs, intentionally crashed into the storefront. Posted NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A delivery driver crashed his tractor-trailer rig into the front of an Aldi grocery store in East Nashville early Thursday morning. Police say while delivering items to the Aldi on Gallatin Avenue, the driver, 34-year-old Kristofer Scruggs, intentionally crashed into the storefront.
1 year later: Families gather for town hall after deadly AES explosion
HUMPHREYS COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — It’s been almost a year since the devastating explosion at a munitions plant near McEwen, Tennessee. 16 workers at Accurate Energetic Systems (AES) lost their lives, and 16 families were left fighting for justice. Five families moved forward with a lawsuit against the plant. Wednesday night, their attorneys hosted a town hall meeting for the community, as a chance for AES families and past and present employees to share their story.
Gas prices soar for Labor Day weekend
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Millions of Americans have already started traveling for Labor Day, and they'll be in for sticker shock when they hit the gas station. Gas is up 95 cents a gallon from 2025, and the cost of diesel fuel hit an all-time high of $5.85 a gallon. AAA expects the national average for gas to sit around $4.14, the highest ever for Labor Day weekend. Alicia Korbe, a mother of 5, has noticed the constant uptick in the price of gas.
Extreme heat: How coaches are keeping football players safe on the field
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Unrelenting temperatures are making it hard to go about these September days. Wilson County Schools canceled school Friday because of the heat, but sports games are still a go. In Davidson County, a Friday night football game in East Nashville started 30 minutes late to beat the heat. Both the East Nashville Magnet Eagles and Hillsboro Burros are facing extremely high temperatures in games and in practices.
Average mortgage rates reach highest level this year
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Mortgage rates have hit their highest level since July of last year, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate rising to 6.71% this week, according to Freddie Mac. The eye-popping number has some home-buyers hesitating and some home-sellers at a standstill. "For the average Joe, it means you can't buy as much house. Your mortgage payment is going to be much higher," explained Angela Martin, a senior loan officer at Movement Mortgage.
Nonprofit provides free laundry services to help lighten the load
MADISON, Tenn. (WTVF) — One nonprofit is doing its part to provide clean clothes to the community. Current Initiatives Laundry Project was created to give families the ease of not having to choose between bills and clean clothing. "A lot of families are choosing between either buying groceries or washing clothes. 9 times out of 10, food is obviously gonna win that battle. So they sacrifice washing their clothes, washing their kids' clothes.
Grand Ole Opry, artists pay special tribute to Dolly Parton during Saturday night show
Prev Next They sang her songs to a packed house, the same stage where she marked the start, middle and end of her career, touching many lives along the way. Posted NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It was a packed night at the Grand Ole Opry Saturday night, as fans bid farewell to Dolly Parton. The venue hosted a tribute show for Dolly, featuring Carly Pearce, Kathy Mattea, and several other artists.
After Nepal flooding tragedy, this is how Nepalese in Nashville are supporting their own
FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WTVF) — Search and rescue operations in Nepal continue in areas devastated by flash flooding, triggered by a massive glacier collapse and landslide. At least 550 people are confirmed dead, and at least 2,500 are missing, including 90 Americans. More than 3,700 people have been rescued in Nepal so far, though crews say the mud left behind is making it difficult to move through some of the hardest-hit areas.
Nonprofit repurposes and donates flowers at Dolly's statue to patients in the hospital
SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — Dolly's passing has brought many together at murals, venues and other places that represent her. That includes a beloved statue in Sevier County, where many left beautiful gifts — gifts that keep on giving. After hundreds left flowers at her statue in Sevierville, the county reached out to one nonprofit to make sure they were going to good use.
Nashville man cuts down state trees, faces prison time
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A Grand Jury indicted a Nashville man last month for illegally cutting down dozens of state trees in Grundy County. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture said Charles Trost from Nashville is facing prison time and a $25,000 fine for cutting down trees within Savage Gulf State Park. Trost is a former state commissioner, running the Department of Revenue in 2010. The Business Journal also states he is a former Belmont Law Professor.
After missing man found dead, Office of Nightlife reminds tourists of important safety precautions
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Metro police found the body of 31-year-old Conor Anderson near a parking lot along James Robertson Parkway Thursday night. Traveling in from Colorado for a work conference, he had been missing for days. Police say there were no signs of foul play, and authorities are still working to learn exactly how he died. Body camera footage from Sunday, one of the last times he was seen, shows him talking to police during a night out in East Nashville.
Beloved Nashville nonprofit, Last Minute Toy Store, suspends operations
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — For decades, the Last Minute Toy Store has been a godsend come the holidays, providing holiday gifts to thousands of families in need. But now, the families that rely on that assistance may be out of luck. This week, the nonprofit announced it is suspending operations this year. Its longtime partner, the Davidson County Sheriff's Office, which hosted the event for about a decade, can't accommodate the event because it's building a new jail on the campus.
Body camera footage shows last time 31-year-old was last seen in Nashville
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A Colorado man visiting Nashville is missing after a night out this past weekend. Police say he hasn't been heard from since early Sunday morning. NewsChannel 5 obtained body camera footage of 31-year-old Conor Anderson, showing an interaction he had with police Sunday, which was likely the last time he was seen. Police say his visit to Nashville started on Saturday. He was here for a work conference and checked into the Millennium Maxwell House Hotel in North Nashville.
Hot weather and deep-fried corn nuggets are the stars of this year's Tennessee State Fair
Prev Next Posted WILSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — Fans of the Tennessee State Fair in Lebanon are no strangers to the heat. Saturday reached hot 90 degree temperatures that felt even hotter. But it didn't stop people from enjoying the annual event, and all it has to offer — including nearly 100 food vendors. Fair food is always a big draw, celebrating nostalgia, local cooks, and everything deep-fried.
Gardeners working outside brave August heat
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — This time of year, in the sweltering heat, plants need more water than ever — and so do the gardeners that take care of them. At JVI Secret Gardens, employees are braving the sun all day, whether they like it or not. "I will come out and sweat in the sun and do physical work over sitting under fluorescent lighting in a cube any day," laughed one employee, Denise. "Yeah the heat, I'm not a huge fan of the heat," admitted the garden's manager, Shane Burton.
Debate over Flock cameras: Some share concerns at tense city council meeting
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WTVF) — A heated debate over surveillance cameras is causing a stir in Murfreesboro. The Flock cameras read license plate numbers, which police say is an effective crime-fighting tool, but they're sparking privacy concerns in many communities. At the Murfreesboro city council meeting Thursday night, Flock cameras were the main talking point during the public comment period.
New music venue to open in Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A brand new music venue in the quickly growing neighborhood of Wedgewood-Houston is opening in October. Construction started back in 2024 and the team is less than two months from opening The Truth. Mickey Davis, the general manager, said progress is coming along nicely and he's proud to be a part of the project. "It's great, you know, this is such an amazing building," he said. "It really matches the character of the neighborhood.
The data center debate isn't over: Metro Council takes step to acquire proposed facility's land
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A major update in the fight against a local data center took place this week. Tuesday night, Metro Council approved a bill allowing the city to use eminent domain when it comes to the area near the Nashville Zoo that a data center company purchased for $23 million. Eminent domain authorizes the government to take private property for public use.
What to know for Election Day
Prev Next Election Day Thursday is your last chance to weigh in on several races, including a tight race for Governor between Senator Marsha Blackburn, Congressman John Rose, and State Representative Monty Fritts. Posted and last updated NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's Election Day in Tennessee on Thursday. The final round of political ads will air, some of which exhibit artificial intelligence.
Taxi, rideshare drivers claim unfair ticketing practices happening downtown
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Dozens of taxi, Uber, and Lyft drivers came together last weekend to call for an end to harassment and unnecessary ticketing by NDOT officers. Drivers honked their horns up and down Broadway last Saturday, and 160 others signed a petition, to bring attention to what they're calling unfair practices downtown. While there are designated rideshare zones to park, some drivers claim they can't stay for more than a couple minutes or else they receive a $100 ticket.
As students go back to school, new law limits screen time in the classroom
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The new school year is bringing changes inside classrooms across Tennessee, including a new law encouraging teachers and students to limit screen time. Effective in July, the legislation requires K-5 public schools to minimize screen time for students. The law prioritizes in-person learning without the use of electronics, encouraging teachers to cut down on using screens to teach and students to limit time on digital devices.
Beaman Park is expanding: Nashville to acquire forestland to preserve city's green spaces
JOELTON, Tenn. (WTVF) — Nashville and several organizations are investing in green space, in an effort to conserve trees, protect wildlife, increase access to nature. On Friday, Mayor Freddie O'Connell announced the city is acquiring 300 acres of forestland that will expand Beaman Park. After two years and heavy investment in the project, the Conservation Fund bought the land and will transfer it to Metro Nashville for permanent ownership.
Columbia homeowner dealing with damage says flooding is 'worst it's ever been'
COLUMBIA, Tenn. (WTVF) — For some Middle Tennessee families, the storms have passed, but the cleanup and questions are just beginning. One family in Maury County is dealing with the aftermath of serious flooding at their home on Alpine Drive in Columbia. Most of what was stored in Lisa Rocca's basement is ruined, and the water is slowly eroding the foundation of the house.
'This is a big deal': Local sports bars fill up for World Cup final
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The much-anticipated World Cup final match took place this afternoon. Among the excitement were dozens of fans, packed in local sports bars, to share the moment with one another. Inside Neighbors in Germantown, the bar was packed, the beer was flowing, and every screen was turned to the World Cup final. "We're all very stressed, my group chat's blowing up right now," laughed Victoria Dunoyer, cheering on Spain.
Local children's theater group finally gets permanent home
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — This October, a performing arts group will finally have a place to call their own. The Theater Bug, a Tennessee nonprofit that allows kids to dive deep into their love of performing arts, will open a new children's theater later this year in West Nashville. Founder and managing artistic director Cori Anne Laemmel said they've performed at various venues around town for years, and this will be their first permanent home since 2019.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill that could end changing our clocks twice a year
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — This Tuesday, the US House of Representatives passed a bill that would end bi-annual time changes and establish Daylight Saving Time year-round. The legislative body voted through the Sunshine Protection Act. If the Senate also passes the Act, and the President signs off, it means no springing forward, no falling back and no changing your clocks twice a year. The sun would rise later, and sunlight would stick around longer into the night.
New Wedgewood-Houston event celebrates Bastille Day
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — In the developing neighborhood of Wedgewood-Houston, neighbors had a chance to get to know one another, discover new hot spots in town, and celebrate a lesser known holiday at its first ever Bastille Day Block Party this weekend. "It is hot, but it's really really fun," said Drew Crosby. Complete with music, food and shopping, the new event highlighted new businesses and neighborhood joints, all with a French twist.
Flash floods: How to prepare for an intense storm
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Serious storms and heavy flooding have hit the Mid-State this week, and flash flooding has become a real problem. Data shows instances of these intense, quick and dangerous floods are rising. "The long-term projections, to around 2050, are that we're going to see more of these storm events," explained Janey Camp, a University of Memphis research professor specializing in community resilience. She said what compounds the issue of flash flooding is all the development.
Heavy rain floods Tenn. photographer's studio
Prev Next Heavy rain flooded Angela Seats’ photography studio in Wilson Co., damaging equipment and threatening her livelihood. Now, she wants local officials to address the recurring problem. WILSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — Serious storms passed through much of the Mid-State Wednesday night. In parts of Wilson County, heavy rain brought major flooding. Angela Seats' photography studio was washed out, and she lost both AC in her home and several pieces of work equipment.
A new law is cracking down on car burglaries
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A new law is cracking down on car burglaries. If you break into a vehicle, you're now looking at a more serious felony and potentially more jail time. It's welcome news for Sarah Jordan and her 9-year-old, who recently moved to Nashville and woke up Tuesday to a smashed window and an empty car. "Now I kind of have a sense of not feeling safe," said Jordan.
'Quite hot': Medical expert shares tips to stay safe in extreme heat
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — As temperatures reach the high 90s, one medical expert is sharing how you can take care of yourself and loved ones. Dr. Brian Wilcox, the chief clinical officer at Ascension St. Thomas, said it's not just children or older people that are vulnerable. While you should check on your loved ones in those categories, don't forget yourself. "Depending on what you're doing in the heat, you could go to normal to dangerous really quickly," he explained.
Before final show, country stars speak about Alan Jackson's influence on careers, lives, and the genre
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A massive, sold-out performance celebrating the career of Alan Jackson featured classic old-timers and new country artists alike. It drew 50,000 to Nissan Stadium, where we had the chance to talk to some stars before the show. Several shared just how much Alan Jackson has inspired his fans, his family and fellow artists. "From day one, I was an Alan Jackson fan," said Luke Bryan.
You can watch Alan Jackson's final show, even if you didn't buy tickets
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Alan Jackson's sold-out final performance at Nissan Stadium includes a star-studded lineup of friends, as the country music legend retires from the road. But even if you didn't buy tickets, you can still enjoy the music with Broadway's very first concert livestream Saturday night. The street will be closed from 4th to 7th Avenue, with big screens set up to stream multiple performances.
Hundreds gather to remember the life of 12-year-old Damarion Morehead
LOCATION, Tenn. (WTVF) — A life lost far too soon is bringing a community together. Hundreds gathered to remember 12-year-old Damarion Morehead, who killed in a shooting downtown last Sunday evening. Thursday night, friends, family, and neighbors are honored his memory by gathering at McFerrin Park with balloons, candles and customized t-shirts. Damarquis Morehead, Damarion's father, said his son made him the man he is today. "I'm lost for words when it comes to my child," he said.
New legislation? Stricter guidelines? Dozens attend town hall to discuss data center debate
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The data center debate brought dozens to a community town hall in Wedgewood-Houston Wednesday night. Many continue to voice strong opposition to a planned new data center next to the Nashville Zoo. Many more just want simple guidelines for these facilities and for their questions to be answered. During a record-long planning commission in mid-June, hundreds spoke out, and leaders considered legislation restricting how and where data centers can be built.
'Let's Party!': Banana Ball is back in Nashville
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A rainy forecast didn’t stop about 10,000 people from packing First Horizon Park Thursday night to watch an entertaining sport that's definitely growing in appeal! Banana ball is back — and Nashville can’t get enough. "The dancing, the tricks, it's really fun," said one first-timer. "I see it on TikTok all the time, and I just wanted to see it in person." No matter what brings you to the park, it's a whole lot of entertainment and family-friendly fun.
How 3D printed wheelchairs may mean a brighter future at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Innovative technology is transforming hospitals — with new tools, cutting-edge techniques, and now, a creative way to get around. Graden Knapp, a gaming and technology specialist, uses fun tools like toys and video games to make sick kids' stays in the hospital bearable. What he didn't know is that his work would also lead to the very first, almost-complete, 3D printed wheelchair at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital.
Data center debate continues: Neighbors near Nashville zoo voice concerns over potential facility
SOUTH NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — In South Nashville, right by the Nashville zoo, is where Dylan Oglesby and his family call home. "The longer we've been here, the more we see ourselves staying and yeah planting roots — this is our home," he said. "We can spend some time outside and enjoy just the beauty of Nashville." His home might soon be very close to a proposed data center in Grassmere Park.
Data center debate: Over 100 speak out in city meeting, Metro leaders defer action on proposed legislation
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Data centers — and a zoo — are at the heart of a heated debate this week. At a packed Metro planning commission meeting Thursday night, over 100 people spoke out against data centers in their community. This, as city leaders considered restrictions as to where and how these facilities can be built. After six hours of public comment and discussion, the commission opted to defer action until their next meeting on June 25.
Alzheimer's Awareness Month: Early detection is the latest push in the fight to end the disease
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's Alzheimer's Awareness Month — the perfect time to hear how local advocates are fighting for a better future. While the Tennessee chapter of the Alzheimer's Association has long raised awareness and funding for treatments and a cure, there's a relatively new push for early intervention and detection. Tiffani Johnson, a former caregiver and volunteer for the Nashville Walk to End Alzheimer's, recently traveled to DC to support the ASAP Act.
Granddaughter moves wedding to hospital so ill grandmother could attend
DICKSON, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's an unconventional thing to have a wedding inside a hospital, but the things you do for family are worth it. Earlier this year, the lobby at TriStar Horizon Medical Center was transformed into Caroline and Wesley Hudson's first wedding venue. Caroline's grandmother, Nancy Chambers, better known as Missy, fell ill and was admitted to the hospital in April. They didn't know if she would make it to the wedding weeks later, so the couple brought the event to her.
Nashville's newest tradition is a downtown rodeo
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Many swarmed to Broadway Saturday night for Nashville's second ever Music City Rodeo at Bridgestone Arena. The three-day event features bull-riding, live music, and much more — although rain wasn't in the rundown. "So they had like a little plaza so you could check it out a little bit ahead of time, but the rain was coming, and they were like hey for safety, you guys gotta step out," explained Jane Diodato, who was enjoying the pre-rodeo events.
New data shows Maury County has highest unemployment rate in the state
MAURY COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — New data shows Maury County surpassed every other county when it comes to unemployment. The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce development reported its unemployment rate sits at over 6%, well above the state average. The same data shows Lewis County is not far behind. "It does seem a little surprising. I would think...like maybe Nashville would be higher just because it's a bigger population," said Maury county resident Josh Sturgeon.
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