It is with a heavy heart and deep sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Michael Morrison, a cherished news photographer for ABC24 Memphis. He was tragically struck by a drunk driver on his way to work early in the morning and passed away later in the afternoon. His sudden departure leaves a void not only in the realm of journalism but also in the hearts of those who knew him personally.
A Dedicated Friend and Colleague
Michael Morrison was more than just a colleague; he was a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of inspiration. Known for his dedication and love for his craft, he was the kind of person who would reach out with freelance opportunities and always lend a helping hand when he could.
Parker Hays shared a tribute post on Facebook by writing:-
RIP Michael Morrison . He was struck by a drunk driver on his way to work early in the morning and passed away this afternoon. I took this picture of him in 2015 at the station when I was messing around with my camera. I had known Michael for 10+ years (the entire time he worked at ABC). We last spoke in May via text talking about work and just catching up in general. He’s one of the few people that kept in touch with me in the past year after I stopped working in News. He would always reach out with freelance opportunities and always trying to help out when he could. He was the first person I trained to fly drones and he was always excited about growing and learning so he could start his own production company one day. Michael was a huge sneaker head. He was also super passionate about golf, filming the Memphis Grizzlies and most importantly, his family. I don’t know what else I can say other than Memphis lost a really good person today.
I had known Michael for over a decade, the entire time he worked at ABC. We last spoke in May, catching up on work and life in general. Even after I left the News industry, he was one of the few who kept in touch, showing his genuine care and concern for those around him.
A Man of Many Passions
Morrison was a man of many passions. He was an avid sneakerhead, a golf enthusiast, and had a deep love for filming the Memphis Grizzlies. But above all, his family was his greatest treasure. His face would light up every time he spoke about them, reflecting the immense love and pride he held in his heart.
One of my fondest memories of Morrison was back in 2015 when I took a picture of him at the station while experimenting with my camera. That photo captured his spirit perfectly – always ready for a challenge, always eager to learn.
A Visionary with a Dream
Morrison had dreams beyond the realm of news photography. He was the first person I trained to fly drones, always excited about growing and learning so he could start his own production company one day. His enthusiasm was infectious, his dedication unparalleled.
A Loss Beyond Words
The sudden loss of Michael Morrison is a devastating blow to our community. His contributions to journalism, his impact on those around him, and his unwavering spirit cannot be overstated. Memphis has lost a truly good person today, a man whose legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.
As we mourn the loss of a great talent and an even greater friend, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May his memory inspire us to live each day with passion, kindness, and an unyielding desire to help others just as he did.
Rest in peace, Michael. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Your legacy will continue to shine like a beacon, guiding us through the challenges we face and reminding us of the impact one person can have on so many lives.
