derrick ward dead at 61
Photo via SegravesNBC4/X

Beloved NBC Washington Reporter Derrick Ward Dies At 62 As Colleagues Mourn

NBC4 Washington reporter, Derrick Ward, has sadly passed away. The outlet reported the news, calling him a member of the "News 4 family."

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Ward died aged 62 following complications from a cardiac arrest, says NBC4. No other details are shared on his passing. The outlet then proceeded to share of Ward's eventful life.

He passed on Tuesday, January 7.

It is with "profound sadness and heavy hearts" that Ward's family shared the news of his passing. "Derrick has been an inspiration and cherished member of our family and his hometown community," they said, "As a distinguished journalist, Derrick's storytelling, prolific writing, warmth, and humor touched countless lives. Our children and our entire family will miss him dearly."

His colleagues in the News4 family and outside have mourned his loss. NBC4 aired a segment celebrating the reporter's life and presence around the office. There, colleagues called him, "super friendly," welcoming, and kind.

Mark Segraves, a fellow reporter, wrote a

Aimee Cho also posted a statement to X. She wrote, "Just heartbroken over the loss of our beloved friend & colleague Derrick Ward. He was always so nice to me and everyone he met. I loved shadowing him when I was an intern, and learned so much about writing, history, and life from him. We love you Derrick."

Derrick Ward Was Also A Great Guitarist

NBC4 highlighted Ward's skills that weren't just to do with reporting and writing. Ward was also a brilliant guitarist and took lessons since he was 12, according to his brother.

Ward, going from band to band performing, has apparently played with "several famous musicians," including Jimmy Smooth.

The outlet shared a clip of Ward on stage in 2018, performing with his guitar and singing.

His passions for storytelling and music came together when he interviewed George Clinton.

Details for the reporter's memorial service will be forthcoming.