5 Heartbreaking Facts About Emily Matson's Death And Her Enduring Legacy At Erie News Now

The passing of Emily Matson, a beloved and familiar face on Northwest Pennsylvania television for nearly two decades, sent a shockwave of grief through the Erie community and the broader media landscape. As of December 15, 2025, the definitive information surrounding the tragic event remains a somber reminder of the hidden struggles faced by public figures, with the focus now shifting to her enduring legacy as a dedicated journalist, loving mother, and cherished colleague. The news anchor, a key member of the *Erie News Now* team (WJET/WFXP/WSEE), was known for her warm on-air presence and deep connection to local stories, making her sudden death an especially difficult loss for the viewers she served. The official ruling from the Erie County Coroner's Office provided a clear but painful conclusion to the initial mystery, prompting an outpouring of condolences and a renewed conversation about mental health awareness.

Emily Matson: A Complete Biographical Profile

Emily Eileen (Matson) Onderko was more than just a news anchor; she was a dedicated professional who spent her entire adult career serving the people of her native Pennsylvania.

• Full Name: Emily Eileen (Matson) Onderko
• Date of Birth: February 21, 1981
• Date of Death: December 11, 2023
• Age: 42 at the time of her passing
• Hometown/Location of Death: Fairview Township, Pennsylvania
• Parents: Patricia and Thomas Matson
• Spouse: Ryan Onderko
• Children: Two children, Kyle and Emily Onderko
• Career: Journalist, Producer, Reporter, and Presenter for Erie News Now (WJET-TV, WFXP, WSEE)
• Tenure: Worked at the station for 17 to 19 years, starting as an intern in the early 2000s.
• Notable Roles: Key anchor and reporter for local news programming, covering stories across the Erie, Pennsylvania region.
• Awards: Recognized with an Outstanding News Award during her career.

Her life was deeply rooted in the Northwest Pennsylvania area, which contributed significantly to her authentic and relatable style of reporting. This local connection is a crucial element of the profound mourning that followed her death, as she was viewed not just as a celebrity, but as a genuine member of the community.

The Tragic Details: What Happened on December 11, 2023?

The news of Emily Matson’s death first emerged on Monday, December 11, 2023, with initial reports confirming she had passed away suddenly at the age of 42. The circumstances were immediately tragic and shocking. Matson was struck by a train in Fairview Township, Pennsylvania, a detail that quickly led to intense speculation and public curiosity. The official statement from the Erie County Coroner, Lyell Cook, was released shortly after, confirming the horrifying manner of death. The cause was officially ruled as suicide. The confirmation of suicide, while bringing closure to the facts of the incident, opened a deeper wound of grief and confusion among her viewers and peers. Her death was a stark reminder that mental health struggles can affect anyone, even those who appear to be thriving in the public eye. The Erie News Now station, where she was a *longtime Pennsylvania news anchor*, released a statement expressing profound sadness and confirming the immense loss to their team and the community. The tragic event occurred just days after Matson had appeared on-air, reportedly smiling and engaging with colleagues, which further highlighted the invisible nature of the struggles she may have been facing.

A 17-Year Career and Enduring Community Bond

Emily Matson’s career at WJET-TV, which later became part of the *Erie News Now* umbrella, was a testament to her dedication to local journalism. Her tenure spanned close to two decades, an unusually long time in the often-transient world of broadcast news. She started her journey as an intern, a humble beginning that underscored her eventual rise to a prominent anchor position. Her work as a journalist, producer, reporter, and presenter meant she was involved in every aspect of delivering the news to the *Northwest Pennsylvania* region. Her boss, Scott MacDowell, the director of news at the station, described her as "spectacular" and emphasized her deep love for the Erie community. She was a Pennsylvania native, and this genuine connection allowed her to report on local issues with a level of passion and understanding that resonated deeply with viewers. This authenticity made her a trusted source of information and a beloved figure in countless homes. The station aired several *tributes* following her death, including emotional segments from her colleagues like Tracy Dailey and the *First at 4 Team*, sharing memories of her professionalism, sense of humor, and dedication. These tributes highlighted her role as a vibrant and essential part of the newsroom family.

The Legacy of Mourning and Mental Health Awareness

The death of Emily Matson immediately transcended a typical news story; it became a major community event and a catalyst for discussion. The *Erie, Pennsylvania community* mourned the loss of one of its own, with many taking to social media to share personal memories of her kindness and on-air presence. The shock was palpable, as the public grappled with the reality that a person who brought them news and comfort daily was suffering in silence. The focus of the coverage quickly shifted to honoring her *legacy* and raising awareness about mental health. The tragedy served as a painful reminder to "check on your people," as one community member noted. The widespread coverage, including her obituary which confirmed her surviving family members—her *husband Ryan Onderko* and *two children, Kyle and Emily Onderko*—underscored the devastating personal toll of her passing. The community's response was not just one of sadness, but of collective concern for her family and for others who might be struggling. The conversation around *suicide prevention* became a major element of the aftermath. News outlets reporting on the incident responsibly included resources for those in crisis, using Matson’s tragic end to encourage others to seek help. Her death, though heartbreaking, has solidified her memory not only as a dedicated *Erie News Now anchor* but also as a symbol for the importance of addressing mental illness and providing support in Northwest Pennsylvania and beyond.

A Final Look at Emily Matson’s Lasting Impact

Emily Matson’s impact on the Erie region is measured not just in the 17-19 years she spent on television screens, but in the trust and affection she earned from her audience. Her dedication to local stories, from weather events to community initiatives, made her an integral part of the daily lives of thousands of residents. She was a journalist who understood the heartbeat of her hometown. The collective grief from her colleagues at *WJET-TV* and the wider community demonstrates the power of a local news anchor to become a true public servant and a member of the extended family. While the details of her death are undeniably tragic, her lasting legacy is one of professional excellence, deep community engagement, and an unfortunate, yet powerful, contribution to the ongoing national conversation about mental health and well-being. The community continues to remember the vibrant, spectacular woman who delivered their news every day.