Arizona's journalism community is reflecting on the contributions and legacies of several respected figures who have recently passed away. This past weekend marked 17 years since a helicopter crash claimed the lives of four journalists, including two from Arizona’s Family, Jim Cox and Scott Bowerbank. The crash also took the lives of ABC 15’s Craig Smith and photographer Rick Krolak, as mentioned by AZFamily.
On July 27, 2007, while pursuing a police chase over Phoenix’s Steele Indian School Park, the two helicopters collided, leading to a fatal crash that deeply impacted the community. The memorial, unveiled where the disaster unfolded, features a plaque detailing the tragic event and the names of the men lost. Every year, loved ones and the public gather for a moment of silence at the memorial, with this year's taking place at 12:47 p.m. The James Alan Cox Foundation, established in honor of Cox, continues to support aspiring student photographers, having awarded over $337,000 to more than 180 students, according to AZFamily.
Adding to the somber news, Arizona mourns the loss of another journalistic force, Jana Bommersbach, who died after a prolonged illness at the age of 78. With a career spanning decades, Bommersbach's work remains a testament to her dedication to truth and her community. She was named Arizona's Journalist of the Year in 1983 and received national recognition for her distinct voice and compelling storytelling. Her fearless reporting, whether in printed columns or television segments, earned her a reputation for relentless truth-seeking, KOLD News reported.
