NBC reporter Katherine Creag, who was a familiar face to those who turned to Channel 4 for local news, died suddenly on Wednesday, according to the station.
Creag, 47, joined WNBC in 2011 and discussed a variety of topics.
She worked like that Wednesday morning, the station reported. No other details were shared.
“Creag was instantly recognizable by her distinctive voice and hearty laugh, and was the first face many New Yorkers woke up to every day,” NBC told New York.
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.
“Cat was one of our cornerstones for ten years, always willing to help in any situation, whether it was a colleague in need or a shift that needed to be covered. She was thoughtful, funny and relentless,” WNBC said. Vice President of News, Amy Morris, said in an email to staff. “And even on the most difficult days, she was a bright light, quick with a kind word and a smile.”
A Manila-born man from the Philippines, Creag has a passion for Filipino food and was the first to warn colleagues at a new location to try, reports NBC New York.
The station said she would be remembered for her endless energy, even if she signed up for work while it was still dark, and her generous support to various charities.
Creag is survived by a son, two daughters and her husband of 14 years, Bill Gafner.
