Beloved Pennsylvania News Anchor's Tragic Death Ruled a Suicide, Daughter Pays Emotional Tribute
ICARO Media Group
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Emily Matson, a renowned news anchor at Erie News Now, has tragically passed away, with her death being ruled a suicide. The daughter of the late anchor, Emily Onderko, has taken to social media to pay a touching tribute to her beloved mother.
Emily Matson, 42, met an untimely end on Monday when she was struck by a train in Fairview, according to the Erie County Coroner's Office. The death has been unequivocally determined as a suicide, leaving behind a somber atmosphere among her family, friends, and colleagues.
Survived by her husband, Ryan Onderko, a police officer, and their son Kyle, Matson's sudden departure has left a void in the lives of her loved ones and the Erie community. The anchor's family had previously experienced the loss of a late daughter named Kayla, intensifying the sorrow they now face.
Emily Onderko, Matson's daughter, shared a heartfelt post on Facebook, accompanied by a photo of herself with her mother, honoring her memory. Onderko described Matson as the "most beautiful person" she knew, both on the inside and out.
The news of Matson's passing came as a shock to her colleagues at Erie News Now, who are devastated by the loss of their beloved anchor. Scott MacDowell, the station's news director, expressed his sorrow, stating, "Emily was a shining light in our newsroom, delivering news with a passion and love she had for the Erie community and Northwest Pennsylvania."
Glowing tributes for Matson have since poured in from colleagues and friends, alluding to her warm and inviting nature. Meteorologist Sara Tonks reminisced about Matson's ability to draw people in and make them feel valued, her kindness extending to new employees as well. Another former colleague, Katie McGraw, expressed the incredible loss that Matson's passing brought, highlighting her vibrant personality and indelible impact on those around her.
Matson had dedicated almost 20 years of her life to Erie News Now, serving as an anchor of the weekday 7 pm and 11 pm newscasts. During her tenure, she built strong relationships within the community and law enforcement, particularly the police department. Police Chief Dan Spizarny fondly remembered Matson as a positive force in the newsroom, always brightening the atmosphere with her infectious humor and unwavering optimism.
The tragic loss of Emily Matson has left a profound impact on the Erie community and beyond. As her loved ones mourn her absence, her legacy as a talented news anchor and a beacon of positivity will forever be remembered.