JUST IN: Beloved News Host Dies Suddenly At 42

The untimely death of a popular Pennsylvania news anchor has the media in mourning.

Emily Matson, who commanded the ratings at Lily Broadcasting for years in a career spanning two decades, died at the young age of 42, according to a statement by the media company.

“It is with a very heavy heart that we have learned of the passing of our beloved Erie News Now news anchor Emily Matson. Emily was a shining light in our newsroom, delivering news with a passion and love she had for the Erie community and Northwest Pennsylvania. We loved Emily dearly and our hearts go out to the Matson family and her husband Ryan at this time,” reported Eric News Now.

The Daily Caller noted portions of Matson’s biography that described her love for journalism as well as testimony from colleagues about her ability to move the needle on news coverage and putting politicians in the hot seat.

“One of the things I love about my job is that no single day is EVER the same. I love breaking news situations,” Matson wrote about herself.

“She was such a talented journalist and anchor, but even more, she was an incredible friend. From being side-splittingly funny and feisty, to thoughtful and caring…I’m going to miss you Em.,” wrote Jamison Hixenbaugh, a colleague to Matson for more than 15 years, on his Facebook page.

“Emily was such a presence in the newsroom and in the studio, and I can’t count the number of times that I would stop by her desk to talk to her or just listen to her talk to others,” wrote CNN meteorologist Sara Tonks. “She always had a way of drawing people in and making them feel welcome, and when I first started at ENN she made sure I was included in the Secret Santa gift exchange and got me a sign that says ‘Let it Snow… Somewhere Else – Erie, PA.’

“She made me, a stranger and a baby in the industry feel included and was always there with advice or ideas if I needed them.”

Matson was a two-time recipient of the “Outstanding Spot News” from the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters, having risen in the ranks to grill national candidates who made their way through the state during election season.

No cause of death was released by her friends, family, or colleagues.