CBS Affiliate Anchors Announces Death of Colleague at Age 28 On Air

Anchors at CBS affiliate KOLD-TV in Tucson, Arizona paid an emotional tribute to their late colleague, Ana Orsiniin the air.

“Sad news to share with you, our beloved friend and co-anchor Ana Orsini passed away unexpectedly last week,” anchor Tyler Butler told viewers during Monday, December 16 broadcast.

Co-anchor Carsyn Currier — who was visibly upset and fighting back tears — added that Orsini had been a member of the station since June 2023 and that the group is “devastated by this loss.” Butler supportively gripped Currier’s hand as reporters reflected on their friendship with Orsini.

“We had the opportunity to work with her every day, and we want you to know that what you saw with her on the air — the fun, crazy person that she was — she was just like that off camera and much more,” Butler said.

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Currier explained that her and Butler’s outfits were chosen today with Orsini in mind. Butler rocked a blue suit paired with a baby pink tie, while Currier donned a magenta cardigan sweater.

“And of course we’re wearing pink just for her,” Currier said. “While there is no perfect way to remember the life Ana led, we want to honor her by sharing some of our favorite Ana moments.”

The clip then cut to a reel of several of Ana’s previous broadcasts with the network.

According to the outlet, Orsini died unexpectedly a week earlier as a result of a brain aneurysm. She was 28 years old. Orsini’s family told KOLD-TV they wanted the late journalist to “be remembered for the bright, sunny person she was.”

In lieu of donations, the family encouraged viewers to donate to their local animal shelters in honor of Orsini, as the reporter was an avid animal enthusiast and “never met a dog she didn’t love.” Orsini had his own rescue dog named Harley.

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In addition to the broadcast, several of Orsini’s colleagues paid tribute to her online.

“There are special people who come into our lives who will have an everlasting impact, and Ana Orsini was one of them. Our thoughts and sincere prayers are with the Orsini family during this incredibly tragic time,” anchor Dan Marries wrote via Instagram on Monday. “The unconditional love she shared with them is something I wish everyone could be blessed with. Ana, you were one in a trillion; wise beyond your years, full of practical insight, wise, compassionate, quick-witted and possessed an infectious love of animals, especially dogs.”

Prior to joining the KOLD-TV staff, Orsini worked as an anchor in Medford, Oregon and a reporter in Lubbock, Texas. During her time in Texas, Orsini launched her “Pet of the Day” segment, highlighting and helping local farm animals.