Emily Matson was a beacon of journalism in Erie, remembered not only for her impactful reporting but also for her vibrant spirit that resonated deeply with the community and her colleagues. Starting her career as a serious crime reporter, she transitioned into a talented news anchor for Erie News Now, bringing stories to life with her clarity, humor, and humanity. Her dedication to her work and her ability to connect with people across various platforms made her a respected and beloved figure in Erie’s news landscape.

This article will delve into the life and legacy of Emily Matson, exploring her contributions to Erie News Now and the void her sudden passing has left in the hearts of many. We will examine the cause of death that took this esteemed journalist too soon, the reactions from the community and colleagues, and the importance of mental health awareness in honoring Emily Matson’s memory. Through this tribute, we aim to highlight her lasting impact on Erie’s journalism scene and the people she touched along the way.

Emily Matson: A Stalwart of Erie’s Journalism Scene

Emily Matson’s journey at Erie News Now was marked by her unwavering dedication and passion for journalism, which left an indelible mark on the Erie community and her colleagues. Her career trajectory at the station is a testament to her commitment and versatility as a journalist.

• Career Milestones:
  • Began as an overnight producer, showcasing her ability to handle the demanding pace of news production.
  • Transitioned to an anchor and general assignment reporter role, where she excelled in covering a wide range of topics from local news to politics, demonstrating her adaptability and keen journalistic instincts.
  • Notably contributed to segments such as ‘Inside Erie Politics’ and ‘The Insider’, adding depth to Erie News Now’s political coverage.
  • Extended her expertise to sports coverage, including ‘Team of the Week’ and ‘Athlete of the Week’, highlighting her diverse skill set.
  • Played a key role in the features team, working on impactful segments like ‘WICU 75 Years’, ‘The Last Word’, and ‘Finding Furever Families’, among others, showcasing her storytelling abilities and engagement with community interests.
• Awards and Recognition:
  • Emily’s excellence in journalism was recognized with the ‘Outstanding Spot News’ award from the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters, not once but twice, underscoring her exceptional reporting skills and her ability to capture the essence of breaking news stories.
• Personal Attributes:
  • Known for her unique sense of humor and directness, Emily was a beloved figure in the newsroom and among the community, respected for her honesty and transparency.
  • Her mentorship of younger journalists helped nurture the next generation of reporters, reflecting her commitment to the profession and her desire to see it thrive.
  • Emily’s love for music, particularly her fondness for playing Tina Turner’s ‘Simply the Best’ to express pride or appreciation, highlighted her vibrant personality and how she inspired those around her.
  • A devoted Steelers fan, Emily’s spirited support for her team added a personal touch to her public persona, endearing her to fellow fans and colleagues alike.

Emily Matson’s legacy at Erie News Now and within the Erie community is a rich tapestry woven from her professional achievements, her mentorship, and her personal connections. Her impact extended beyond the newsroom, touching the lives of many through her reporting, her community involvement, and her genuine passion for storytelling.

The Sudden Passing of Emily Matson

The community of Erie, Pennsylvania, and the journalism world were left in shock with the sudden passing of Emily Matson, a dedicated news anchor for Erie News Now, at the age of 42. The tragic event unfolded in Fairview, Pennsylvania, where she was struck by a train. Following an investigation, the Erie County Coroner’s Office ruled her death as a suicide, a revelation that has since sparked conversations about mental health and the pressures faced by individuals in the media industry.

• Details of the Incident:
  • Date and Location: The incident occurred early on Monday in Fairview Township, Pennsylvania.
  • Investigation Outcome: Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook officially ruled the cause of death as suicide the following Tuesday.
  • Privacy and Respect: In line with respecting Emily Matson’s wishes and those of her family, specific details regarding her cause of death have not been disclosed to the public. This decision has led the community and her colleagues to focus on honoring her life and contributions rather than the circumstances of her passing.

Emily Matson is survived by her husband, Ryan Onderko, a police officer, and their son, Kyle. The family, including a late daughter named Kayla, shared a close bond, often highlighted in Emily’s personal anecdotes during her broadcasts. Her last appearance on air was just the Friday before the announcement of her untimely death, marking a sudden end to nearly two decades of her career at Erie News Now. Throughout her tenure, she had become a staple of Erie’s evening news, anchoring the 7pm and 11pm newscasts with professionalism and warmth.

• Community and Colleagues’ Response:
  • Tributes: Glowing tributes have poured in for Emily, with colleagues and viewers alike expressing their devastation and recounting stories of her impact both on and off the screen.
  • Services: Calling hours were held at the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home in Millcreek, with a funeral service following at St. Jude Church in Millcreek, reflecting the community’s desire to come together and remember her legacy.
  • Legacy: Emily’s work, characterized by her dedication, humor, and ability to touch the lives of many, leaves a void in the Erie journalism scene and in the hearts of those who knew her.

The loss of Emily Matson has not only left a mark on those who were close to her but has also ignited important discussions about the well-being of those in high-pressure professions. Her passing serves as a somber reminder of the need for support systems and mental health resources for individuals facing personal struggles.

Community and Colleagues’ Reaction

In the wake of Emily Matson’s sudden passing, the community and her colleagues at Erie News Now and beyond have come together to express their profound loss and celebrate her life. The response has been a testament to her significant impact on journalism in Erie and the lives she touched.

• Official Statements and Tributes:
  • Erie News Now and Lilly Broadcasting issued heartfelt statements, acknowledging Emily as a “shining light” and extending their deepest sympathies to her family, especially her husband, Ryan.
  • Colleagues and officials shared their shock and devastation, with many taking to social media to post emotional tributes. Jamison Hixenbaugh, a long-time colleague, described Emily as “one of the most wonderful people he’s ever met,” highlighting her hard work and incredible friendship.
  • State Representative Pat Harkins and Sonya Byes reflected on Emily’s vibrant personality, her fashion sense, and her dedication to her work and community, with Harkins noting she could “light up a room” and “epitomized class.”
• Personal Anecdotes and Memories:
  • Emily was remembered for her unique sense of humor, positive attitude, and the joy she brought to every situation. Her love for Snapchat, her beautiful singing voice, and her mentorship of young women in the news industry were fondly recalled.
  • Colleagues highlighted her unparalleled dedication, kindness, and loyalty, including her habit of quoting Tina Turner’s “You’re Simply The Best” to celebrate their achievements. Her passion for rescuing animals and her late-night work ethic were also cherished memories.
• Community Support and Legacy:
  • The overwhelming support from the community was evident in the large crowds at her visitation and funeral. Fr. Ross Miceli spoke of God’s presence during the service, underscoring the profound impact of Emily’s life on those around her.
  • Former reporters and viewers shared stories of how Emily influenced their careers and lives, ensuring her legacy of positivity, encouragement, and support continues to guide and inspire.

This collective outpouring of grief, admiration, and remembrance from colleagues, officials, and the Erie community underscores the void left by Emily Matson’s passing. Yet, it also highlights the indelible mark she made on the world of journalism and the many lives she touched.

Emily’s Contributions to Erie News Now

Emily Matson’s journalistic endeavors extended far beyond the confines of Erie, Pennsylvania, showcasing her versatility and commitment to reporting on a global scale. Her significant impact was felt in the Caribbean, where she dedicated time to cover a range of critical issues and events:

• Caribbean Coverage:
  • US Virgin Islands: Emily spent six months reporting on various issues, including the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating her adaptability and dedication to comprehensive coverage.
  • Annual Carnival Celebrations: Her reporting on the vibrant Carnival celebrations in Toronto highlighted cultural festivities, bringing the color and energy of the event to viewers back home.
  • Hurricane Dorian Aftermath: In 2019, Emily was on location in the Bahamas post-Hurricane Dorian, where her reporting was marked by clarity and compassion, providing a voice for the devastated communities.

Emily’s contributions to Erie News Now were not limited to her overseas reporting. Back at the newsroom, she was known for her multifaceted role, encompassing both production and reporting, particularly on the crime beat. Her relationships with colleagues and the police force were testament to her professional and personal impact:

• Newsroom and Crime Beat Reporting:
  • Trustworthiness and Connections: Emily was highly regarded for her ability to secure the best stories, thanks to her trusted relationships with the police force. This not only underscored her journalistic integrity but also occasionally benefited her colleagues in lighter, more personal ways.
  • Memorable Experiences: From road trips to Cleveland to inadvertently charming Irish musicians, Emily’s charisma and zest for life left indelible memories among her peers, reflecting her ability to connect on a human level.

Finally, Emily’s legacy as a dedicated journalist and community member was evident through her precise and empathetic coverage, as well as her active engagement in nurturing future journalism talents:

• Legacy and Community Engagement:
  • Dedication to Journalism: Known for her precise reporting and empathetic storytelling, Emily’s work was a testament to her commitment to the profession.
  • Mentorship and Role Modeling: Her involvement in local journalism programs and her natural mentorship of aspiring journalists showcased her passion for the field and her desire to contribute positively to the community and the future of journalism.

Honoring Emily Matson’s Legacy

In honoring Emily Matson’s legacy, colleagues and the community she impacted have come together to celebrate her life and contributions in various meaningful ways. Their actions reflect not only the respect and love they held for Emily but also their commitment to continuing her work and passions.

• Tributes and Traditions:
  • Dress Code: In a heartfelt tribute, Emily’s colleagues at Erie News Now have adopted a special dress code to honor her memory:
    • Black and Yellow: On the day of her memorial, symbolizing her favorite colors and reflecting her vibrant personality.
    • Red on Fridays: A tradition Emily always upheld to honor veterans and first responders, showcasing her deep respect and support for those who serve.
  • Support for Causes: Emily’s passion for supporting local causes, particularly those close to her heart, is being carried forward by her colleagues and the community:
    • Emma’s Footprints: Continued involvement and support for the organization, highlighting Emily’s dedication to families experiencing pregnancy or infant loss.
    • Local Professional Wrestling: Recognition of Emily’s support for the wrestling scene, encouraging more community engagement and attendance at events.
    • Animal Welfare: Ongoing support for the Humane Society, reflecting Emily’s love and advocacy for animals.
• Community Engagement and Support:
  • Mentorship and Inclusivity: Emily’s welcoming presence and mentorship are being honored through initiatives aimed at making people feel included and supported, especially in journalism and community projects.
  • Storytelling and Connection: Efforts to uphold Emily’s legacy of storytelling that connects people, transcending situations or divides, through workshops and community storytelling events.
  • Grief Support: Acknowledgment of grief’s enduring nature, with initiatives to support those mourning losses, inspired by Emily’s openness and involvement with support groups.

Emily Matson’s legacy is a mosaic of her professional achievements, personal passions, and the profound impact she had on those around her. Through these actions and commitments, her spirit continues to inspire and influence, ensuring her contributions and values are remembered and upheld within the community and beyond.

The Role of Mental Health Awareness

In the wake of Emily Matson’s tragic passing, the emphasis on mental health awareness has never been more critical. The media, including journalism, plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception and understanding of mental health issues. Here’s how:

Media’s Influence on Mental Health Perception:

• Stigmatization by Media:
  • Exaggeration and Inaccuracy: Often, media portrayals include exaggerated, inaccurate, or comical images of mental illness, contributing to stigma.
  • Violent Depictions: News reports and television dramas frequently depict individuals with mental disorders as violent or unpredictable, further entrenching negative stereotypes.
  • Gender Bias: There exists a noticeable gender bias in media portrayals of mental disorders, perpetuating outdated stereotypes.
• Pharmaceutical Advertising: The advertisement of psychotropic drugs often presents distorted images of psychiatrists and mental health professionals, while media narratives tend to overemphasize genetic determinism concerning psychiatric disorders.

The Importance of Mental Health Literacy:

• Awareness Campaigns: Social media platforms and mental health awareness campaigns play a crucial role in addressing and reducing mental health stigma. These platforms can reach large audiences, promoting mental health literacy and fostering a more informed and compassionate public discourse.
• Journalistic Responsibility:
  • Accurate Reporting: Journalists have a responsibility to report on mental health issues accurately and sensitively, avoiding sensationalized or stigmatizing coverage that can harm individuals with mental health conditions.
  • Ethical Considerations: Proper mental health sensitization training for reporters and editors is essential. This includes adhering to guidelines on reporting suicide and employing a holistic approach to mental health coverage.

Steps Towards Better Mental Health Coverage:

• Change in Narrative: Media outlets are encouraged to:
  • Focus on Inclusion and Equity: Prioritize stories that emphasize scale and impact, looking beyond sensationalized headlines.
  • Reimagine Mental Health: Beyond just healthcare, exploring how societal factors contribute to mental well-being.
  • Training and Education: Provide ongoing training to reporters and editors on mental health issues, ensuring coverage is not only accurate but also compassionate and science-based.

By adopting these practices, the media can play a transformative role in reducing stigma and promoting a more nuanced understanding of mental health issues. In memory of Emily Matson, efforts to improve mental health awareness and reporting can serve as a lasting tribute, honoring her contributions to journalism and the community.

Media’s Coverage of Matson’s Death

Looking Forward: Journalism in Erie Without Matson

In the absence of Emily Matson, Erie’s journalism landscape faces a transformative period. The void left by her sudden departure prompts a reflection on the future of news reporting in the region and the legacy she leaves behind. The following points outline the anticipated shifts and the ongoing commitment to the journalistic integrity that Matson exemplified:

• Adaptation and Resilience:
  • The Erie News Now team and local journalism community are poised to adapt to this significant loss by reinforcing their commitment to quality reporting and community engagement. This includes:
    • Strengthening team dynamics and support systems within newsrooms.
    • Encouraging mentorship programs to nurture upcoming journalists, a testament to Matson’s legacy of guiding young reporters.
• Innovation in Storytelling:
  • With the evolving media landscape, there’s an anticipated shift towards innovative storytelling techniques. Matson’s approach to journalism—marked by empathy, thoroughness, and a knack for engaging the audience—will serve as a guiding principle. This might manifest in:
    • Increased use of digital platforms to reach wider audiences, including podcasts and social media live streams.
    • Incorporating data journalism and interactive elements to enhance story depth and viewer engagement.
• Focus on Mental Health and Community Issues:
  • Matson’s passing has underscored the importance of mental health awareness in the journalism profession and beyond. Moving forward, there’s an expected emphasis on:
    • Reporting on mental health with sensitivity and depth, breaking down stigma and fostering a community dialogue.
    • Spotlighting community issues with a renewed focus on solutions journalism, aiming to not only report on problems but also highlight efforts towards resolution.

As Erie’s journalism community looks to the future without Emily Matson, it does so with a resolve to uphold the standards she set, to innovate in the face of change, and to continue serving the community with integrity and compassion.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the life and legacy of Emily Matson, it becomes evident that her indelible mark on journalism and the Erie community transcends the boundaries of her profession. Through her dedication to accurate, empathetic reporting, and her unwavering support for community causes, Emily’s legacy challenges us to approach journalism with integrity and compassion. Her contributions underscore the importance of mental health awareness within high-pressure professions, reminding us of the need to foster supportive environments that prioritize well-being.

As we move forward, Emily’s passion for storytelling, her mentorship, and her commitment to community engagement serve as a lasting inspiration to both colleagues and aspiring journalists. In honoring her memory, it falls upon us to continue advocating for mental health awareness, to embrace innovation in journalism, and to nurturing the next generation with the same fervor and respect Emily showed throughout her illustrious career. By doing so, we not only pay tribute to her remarkable legacy but also ensure that the values she embodied continue to resonate within and beyond the Erie community.