New York NBC reporter Katherine Creag, who was a familiar face for those who turned to Channel 4 for local news, died suddenly on Wednesday, according to the station.
Creag, 47, started at WNBC in 2011 and covered a variety of topics.
She recently worked Wednesday morning, the station reported. No other details were shared.
“Instantly recognizable by his distinctive voice and warm laughter, Creag was the first face that many New Yorkers woke up to every day,” NBC New York said.
Known as Kat for her co-hosts and viewers, Creag spent five years at Fox before joining NBC. The New York University graduate has won or shared several Emmy, AP and Murrow awards.
“For 10 years, Kat was one of our cornerstones, always willing to help in any situation, be it a needy colleague or a shift that needed to be covered. She was attentive, funny and unforgiving, ”WNBC vice president of news Amy Morris said in an email to the team. “And even on the most difficult days she was a bright, quick light with a kind word and a smile.”
Born in Manila, Philippines, Creag was passionate about Filipino food and was the first to warn colleagues about a new place to try, NBC New York reported.
The station said it will be remembered for its infinite energy, even when it comes to work while it was still dark, and its generous support to various charities.
Creag leaves a son, two daughters and her 14-year-old husband, Bill Gafner.
