NBC Washington reporter, WTOP alum Derrick Ward dies at age 62

On January 8, 2025By Littum

NBC Washington reporter Derrick Ward, who covered local news in the DC area for decades, has died. He was 62.

Undated file photo of NBC Washington and former WTOP reporter Derrick Ward. (Courtesy NBC Washington)

NBC Washington reporter Derrick Ward, who covered local news in the DC area for decades, died Tuesday. He was 62.

The local news outlet reported that Wednesday Ward died of complications from a cardiac arrest.

As a general assignment reporter, Ward was known for his coverage of tragedies and triumphs in the DC area. DC natives reported on a number of historic local events, including the 9/11 attacks on the Pentagon and the DC sniper shootings, according to his biography on NBC Washington’s website.

Before Ward began reporting for the local NBC affiliate in 2006, he worked in radio at WTOP, WAMU and WPFW.

Joel Oxley, the president of WTOP News and the Federal News Network, shared memories of Ward.

“Derrick Ward was truly an outstanding journalist. His passion and dedication showed through every day. But what set him apart was what a great person he was. His warmth and caring was evident at every turn. Everyone liked Derrick. I saw why immediately. He will be missed tremendously.”

In a statement to WTOP, Ward’s family said:

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Derrick Ward, Sr., on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, following complications from a recent cardiac arrest. Derrick has been an inspiring and valued member of our family and his hometown community, as a longtime reporter at News4 Washington and formerly WTOP Radio. As a distinguished journalist, Derrick’s storytelling, prolific writing, warmth and humor touched countless lives. Our children and our entire family will miss him dearly.

We ask for your thoughts and prayers during this time, and we thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support. Details of his memorial service will be shared in the coming days.

– The Ward, Rampersad and Sermons families

Ward grew up in DC and graduated from HD Woodson High School in the Northeast and the University of Maryland.

Ward is survived by his three children.

Watch NBC Washington’s announcement of Ward’s death below.

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