TV news anchor Ana Orsini dies at 28, colleagues remember 'one of a kind' journalist after sudden death

TUCSON, ARIZONA: The Arizona news community is grieving the death of 28-year-old Ana Orsini, a rising journalist and anchor at CBS affiliate KOLD-TV in Tucson, who died unexpectedly last week.

The tragic news was shared during a broadcast on Monday, December 16, as her colleagues fought back tears while remembering their friend.

What was Ana Orsini's cause of death?

Ana Orsini’s cause of death has not yet been released.

Revealing the news of her death, anchor Tyler Butler told viewers, “Sad news to share with you, our beloved friend and co-anchor Ana Orsini passed away unexpectedly last week.” 

Co-anchor Carsyn Currier, visibly emotional, added, “Ana has been here at 13 News since June of 2023, and we are devastated by this loss.”

Inside Ana Orsini's professional career

Originally from Colorado, Ana Orsini quickly became a beloved figure at KOLD-TV's 13 News where she began working in June 2023, according to 13 News.

“What you saw with her on air — the funny, crazy person she was — she was just like that off-camera, and more so,” Butler said as he reached out to comfort Currier.

Before joining KOLD-TV, Orsini built her journalism career across several states.

After graduating from Texas A&M University in College Station, she began her first role at a news station in Lubbock, Texas.

She later spent three years as a morning and midday anchor in Medford, Oregon, where she covered everything from major wildfires to animal adoption campaigns.

Ana Orsini's colleagues remember her compassion for helping animals

Ana Orsini was not only known for her journalistic dedication but also for her larger-than-life personality, fierce love for her family, and deep compassion for animals.

“She was truly one of a kind,” Butler shared in a heartfelt Facebook post.

“Crazy passionate about helping animals, she had a great and sarcastic sense of humor, and was so dedicated to her family," he shared.

"She LOVED her family and talked about them all the time. I’m glad to have been a small part of her work family,” Butler added.

Co-anchor and close friend mourns 'talented and hilarious' Ana Orsini's death

Ana Orsini’s co-anchor and close friend, Carsyn Currier, also paid tribute to her on Instagram with a series of photos that captured their friendship.

“To know Ana was to LOVE her. She made everyone around her feel so special, heard, and understood," she wrote.

"Whether she was dancing around the set or making us all laugh, every day with Ana was an adventure.” Currier continued.

Family was “everything” to Orsini, who was a devoted daughter, sister, and “the best dog mom” to her beloved rescue dog, Harley.

“Rest in peace, sister. I promise to keep living fully for YOU,” Currier added.

Orsini’s loved ones have chosen to wear pink, a color symbolizing both her vibrant spirit and warmth to honor her memory, according to People.

“She was not only beautiful, talented, and hilarious, but she was unlike anyone I’ve ever met. Every day with Ana was a gift," shared Currier.