A reporter working for a Redding television station said on Twitter she is determined to continue covering her community, even after she was attacked while on the job Saturday night.
KRCR-TV reporter Meaghan Mackey was live-streaming a report on Facebook Live at the scene of a mass overdose in Chico when she was assaulted by bystanders. The overdose incident left one dead and 12 hospitalized, according to authorities.
Mackey’s station, KRCR, took down the live-streamed video, but a Facebook account that posted it showed Mackey updating viewers from outside a taped-off area on Santana Court seconds before an unidentified female approached off-camera.
The female told Mackey, “This is disrespectful, do you understand that? Do you understand that?” The female can then be heard cursing Mackey, telling her to leave and apparently swinging at her before at least one male is heard intervening and telling the female to stop.
KRCR-TV tweeted Saturday: “As many of you know, our reporter Meaghan Mackey was attacked while at the scene of a mass overdose in Chico tonight. Meaghan is very shaken up but is okay. We are thankful law enforcement was right there and handled the situation quickly. We appreciate all your kind words.”
In tweets Sunday afternoon, Mackey thanked law enforcement for their response to the attack.
“I was doing my job, reporting the facts on a major incident during a Facebook live for my news station,” Mackey wrote in part.
“I am thankful for the quick response from law enforcement. I am also very appreciative of all the support I’ve received from colleagues, viewers, friends and family. I am still shaken up, but am doing okay. I stand with all journalists working in defense of the truth.”
Mackey added: “Thank you to anyone who has reached out or expressed their concerns. I appreciate your kind words of support. I will not live in fear of doing my job. I value the freedom of the press & will continue to report on the truth and inform the public, even during times of tragedy.”
Contact George Kelly at 408-859-5180.
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