Sports journalists and figures took to social media to mourn the death of Katherine Berman (pictured above left), wife of longtime ESPN anchor Chris Berman.
Katherine, 67, was killed in a two-car accident Tuesday afternoon in Woodbury, Conn, according to authorities. ESPN is headquartered in nearby Bristol, Conn., about 20 miles northeast. The driver of the second car, Edward Bertulis, 87, was also killed. The crash is currently under investigation.
“This is a devastating tragedy and difficult to comprehend,” John Skipper, president of ESPN, said in a statement. “Chris is beloved by all his ESPN colleagues and for good reason: He has a huge heart and has given so much to so many over the years. We know how much his family means to him and all we can do at a moment like this is give him the love and support he will surely need at this hour.”
Ironically, the sports community had gathered Tuesday to celebrate the 38th Annual Sports Emmys in neighboring New York. Berman, who departed as host of ESPN’s “Sunday NFL Countdown” after 31 seasons in January, was not nominated this year.
Among his colleagues that sent their condolences was the legendary Dick Vitale said he was “heartbrokn [sic].”
Like many of u I am Heartbrokrn over the news of the tragic passing of Kathy Berman / Prayers go out to Chris & his family May she RIP
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) May 10, 2017
Sending thoughts and prayers to Chris Berman and his family today.
— Kevin Burkhardt (@kevinburkhardt) May 10, 2017
Thoughts and prayers are with Chris Berman and his family during this difficult time. Tragic.
— Holly Sonders (@holly_sonders) May 10, 2017
So incredibly sad for Chris Berman & his family.. An absolute legend in our business.. And an icon for millions..
— Rob Carlin (@RobCarlinTBD) May 10, 2017
Chris Berman long ago made himself a symbol of support for the #Bills & WNY. Now, more than ever, he needs theirs.
— Vic Carucci (@viccarucci) May 10, 2017
Chris Berman is a pro. He is a man who I respect for his professionalism and his friendship. My heart breaks for him. Absolutely breaks.
— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) May 10, 2017
Our warmest thoughts and prayers go out to our friend, @espn's Chris Berman and his family after the tragic loss of his wife Kathy.
— Mark May (@mark_may) May 10, 2017
Current and former pro athletes — many non-football — also sent their support:
https://twitter.com/JustinBritt68/status/862320380488241152
Our thoughts and prayers are with Chris Berman and his family. So sorry for your loss.
— Patrick Reed (@PReedGolf) May 10, 2017
Please pray for Chris Berman and his family. 🙏🏼
— Marcus Allen (@MarcusAllenHOF) May 10, 2017
Thoughts and prayers to Chris Berman and his family.
— Mia Hamm (@MiaHamm) May 10, 2017
https://twitter.com/Jay_Elliott15/status/862341100626948100
Wanna send Chris Berman and family my prayers!
— Jordan Crawford (@jcraw55) May 10, 2017
My condolences to my good friend Chris Berman and his family. My prayers and thoughts are with Boomer and his family #TrustInGod
— Eric Dickerson (@EricDickerson) May 10, 2017
Sending my love to the Berman family this morning…we're here for u Chris.
— David Ortiz (@davidortiz) May 10, 2017
Several NFL team tweeted their condolences as well:
Our thoughts are with Chris Berman and his family after the passing of his wife Kathy.
Statement from Coach Harbaugh: pic.twitter.com/UVW0ant1IA
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) May 10, 2017
The Buffalo Bills are circling the wagons more than ever for Chris Berman and his family today.https://t.co/aa7nkbiVNi pic.twitter.com/jbuzVmwmWd
— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) May 10, 2017
Our condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with Chris Berman and the entire @ESPN family in the midst of this tragedy. https://t.co/H7gQYXMY9N
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) May 10, 2017
We pass along our sincere condolences to Chris Berman, the Berman family and the @espn family. https://t.co/VwWqp2r0ZH
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) May 10, 2017
The Bermans had been married for 33 years and have two children, Meredith and Douglas. Katherine was a schoolteacher and community volunteer. Wednesday is Chris’s 62nd birthday.
