Beloved NBC reporter Derrick Ward dead at 62
NBC Washington reporter Derrick Ward has died at the age of 62 from medical complications.
Ward, of Washington DC, died on Tuesday from ‘complications of a recent cardiac arrest’ exhaust revealed on social media.
“Derrick has been an inspiring and beloved member of our family and his hometown community as a longtime reporter at News4 Washington and previously WTOP Radio,” Lydia Sermons, a family friend, said in a statement.
“As a leading journalist, Derrick’s stories, prolific writing, warmth and humor have touched countless lives. Our children and our entire family will miss him very much.”
NBC Washington reporter Derrick Ward has died at age 62 from ‘complications of a recent cardiac arrest’
Ward began his journalism career with radio work, working at three stations: WPFW, WAMU and WTOP, the outlet said.
The University of Maryland graduate covered the September 11 attack on the Pentagon, as well as the Iran-Contra hearings.
He made his television debut on WKBW-TV in Buffalo, New York, before returning to his native DC in 2006 to work for NBC Washington, also known as News4 Washington.
Ward grew up in DC’s Marshall Heights and H Street Corridor. He lived through the 1968 riots and documented his experiences on the news network as part of its 40th anniversary coverage, the newspaper said.
When he wasn’t telling stories to DC residents, Ward enjoyed playing guitar. He even played a gig with Big Boy Little Band in September 2013.
Ward is survived by three children: Derrick Jr., Ian and Marisa.