The Tidewater Media Guild issued the following statement on the death of Sierra Jenkins, who was a reporter at The Virginian-Pilot and Daily Press. Sierra, 25, was killed by gunfire in the early hours of March 19 as she left a Norfolk night spot.
“We’re heartbroken to hear about the death of such an important member of our union and community.
“Sierra was a very driven reporter who always wanted to learn more.
“Even before she joined us at Virginia Media, Sierra reached out to make connections and better understand how she could do her job. She wanted to learn how to be a better education reporter, so she went to workshops on her days off and chatted with Pilot alumni.
“She spent a lot of time at our co-working space in Downtown Norfolk, always welcoming people with a smile. More importantly, she was a great friend. She was easy to talk to, whether the topic was critical race theory or 90s R&B.
“There was so much she planned to do and it’s infuriating that she won’t be able to fulfill those goals. We’re holding Sierra’s family, friends and the Hampton Roads community in love and support.
“While Sierra’s life was cut short senselessly, we are grateful for the time we were able to spend with her. She will be missed.”
NewsGuild President Jon Schleuss added, “Sierra was taken from us way too soon. We get into journalism because we are hardwired to listen to and tell the stories of our communities. It’s clear that Sierra cared deeply for her colleagues and her community. The Guild’s collective heart goes out to her family, friends and community.”
Read more about Sierra Jenkins from the Pilot Online.
Photo at top courtesy of Chris Taylor/Studio 110 Photography.