KTVN sports director JK Metzker died on Sunday afternoon from injuries suffered in a hit-and-run accident.
Metzker, 41, was crossing the street following a University of Nevada football game Saturday night when he was struck by a vehicle that then fled the scene, according to KTVN. Going on witness descriptions of the vehicle, police later arrested a 23-year-old man. Alcohol does appear to be a factor in the accident and police are awaiting results of blood tests.
“We are grief struck,” KTVN general manager Lawson Fox said. “JK’s commitment to his family was an example to every father and husband. His family is a delight. And JK’s humor and storytelling ability were extraordinary. He is deeply missed.”
A native of Reno, Metzker had been with the CBS-affiliate for 14 years.
“Reno lost one of their own Sunday,” KOLO sports director Josh Little wrote in a post on the station’s website. “I cannot even illustrate how sad I am today. I always looked forward to seeing JK…he made trips to practice and games that much more enjoyable. He truly was one of the good guys…in a business and a world that quite frankly, there just isn’t enough of. It’s a HUGE loss for the community, for KTVN, for his viewers, his family and his friends.”
Metzker is survived by his wife, Jaimie, and three young sons. A Facebook page has been set up for people to offer their condolences: http://www.facebook.com/metzkerfamily
More information can be found here, on KTVN’s website.