WCCO Reporter Darcy Pohland Dies

MINNEAPOLIS - WCCO-TV reporter Darcy Pohland died on Friday. She was 48 years old.

Pohland apparently died in her sleep. She was found by a personal care attendant Friday morning at her Minneapolis home. Her cause of death has not yet been determined.

Pohland was ill this week and was absent from work on Thursday, according to WCCO. Her last story was a Good Question segment on why jingles are so catchy .

Darcy Pohland was well-loved in the community and was a dear friend to many in the FOX 9 newsroom.

"Darcy has reported in the Twin Cities for more than 20 years, providing knowledge and perspective second to none," FOX 9 News Director Bill Dallman said. "She is one of the true pioneers in our business, never letting her disability get in the way of leading the market on a news story. Our thoughts are with Darcy’s family, friends and certainly with her co-workers at WCCO. Darcy will be deeply missed, but her positive impact will be felt for decades to come."

Pohland grew up Mendota Heights, graduated from Sibley High School and went on to George Washington University, becoming an intern at WCCO's Washington, D.C. bureau during her collegiate career. While an intern, she dove into the shallow end of a pool and broke her neck, causing permanent paralysis from the waist down.

Pohland was first hired at WCCO in 1986 as a dispatcher, eventually working her way to a general assignment reporter position.

Darcy Pohland is survived by two brothers. Her mother died last month.

The thoughts of the FOX 9 family are with Darcy’s family, friends and co-workers at WCCO. Darcy will be deeply missed, but her positive impact will be felt for decades to come.