The KOAA News5 family is mourning the death of Ryan Hazelwood, a former news director remembered as a loving man of faith who made a lasting contribution to the newsroom and the people he worked alongside.
Hazelwood served as news director at KOAA News5 from 2017 to 2024, helping guide the station’s newsroom during a significant period in its coverage of local news and community events. News of his passing has brought sadness to colleagues and members of the broadcasting community who knew him professionally and personally.
In announcing his death, KOAA News5 described Hazelwood as a loving man of faith, a tribute that reflected the personal qualities his colleagues wanted to honor alongside his professional accomplishments.
A Leadership Role at KOAA News5
As news director, Hazelwood held a key leadership position at KOAA News5, the NBC-affiliated television station serving Colorado Springs and surrounding communities. The role involves overseeing newsroom operations, coordinating coverage and helping journalists deliver accurate, timely information to viewers.
From 2017 through 2024, Hazelwood was part of the station’s leadership, working in an industry that requires journalists and newsroom teams to respond to breaking developments, public concerns and important stories affecting the region.
His years at KOAA News5 formed a significant chapter of his professional life, connecting him with reporters, producers, photographers, editors and other staff members working to inform the public.
Remembered for His Faith and Character
While Hazelwood’s work as news director was an important part of his legacy, the station’s tribute also emphasized his faith and the love he brought to his life.
Colleagues often develop relationships that extend beyond the demands of the newsroom. Working through breaking news, tight deadlines and difficult assignments can create lasting bonds among people who share a commitment to public service.
KOAA News5’s message of remembrance placed the focus not only on Hazelwood’s leadership but also on the person his colleagues knew and valued.
A Loss for the Newsroom Community
The death of a colleague can have a profound impact on a newsroom, where teams work closely together to cover events that matter to their communities. Hazelwood’s passing is a moment of grief for those who shared professional experiences with him and for others whose lives he touched.
His seven years as news director at KOAA News5 represent a lasting connection to the station and its mission of serving viewers across southern Colorado.
Additional details about his age, date and cause of death, surviving family members and funeral arrangements were not included in the announcement provided.
Honoring Ryan Hazelwood’s Legacy
Ryan Hazelwood will be remembered for his years of leadership at KOAA News5 and for the faith and love highlighted in the station’s tribute. His professional service placed him in a position of responsibility within local journalism, while the words shared after his passing offered a more personal glimpse of the man behind the title.
As former colleagues and friends mourn, they are left to reflect on the time they shared with him and the influence he had during his years at the station.
Heartfelt condolences go out to Hazelwood’s family, friends and former colleagues at KOAA News5. May they find comfort in their memories of him and support in one another during this difficult time.
