Renee Ferguson, trailblazing investigative journalist, dies at 75

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Renee Ferguson, a pioneering investigative journalist and the first Black woman to serve in that role on Chicago television, has died at 75. Her family confirmed her passing on June 6, 2025.

A Groundbreaking Career in Chicago News

Ferguson spent more than 25 years reporting for WMAQ‑TV/NBC 5 Chicago and WBBM‑TV. She built a reputation for exposing corruption, fighting for accountability, and telling stories that centered people often ignored by mainstream news.

Her work led to major reforms, including:

• changes to airport security procedures
• the exoneration of Tyrone Hood, who was wrongfully convicted of murder

Colleagues described her as a fearless reporter who pushed for truth and justice in every story she touched.

Renee Ferguson: Early Life and Path to Journalism

Ferguson was born on August 22, 1949, in Oklahoma City. She graduated from Indiana University–Bloomington in 1971, where classmates predicted she would become a journalist even in junior high school.

Before joining NBC Chicago, she worked with several networks, including:

• CBS News in Atlanta
• CBS2 Chicago
• NBC5 Chicago

Her early reporting years shaped her into one of the most respected investigative journalists in the country.

Journalist Renee Ferguson: Awards, Honors, and Leadership

Throughout her career, Ferguson earned some of journalism’s highest honors:

• Nieman Fellow at Harvard University (Class of 2007)
• Alfred I. duPont–Columbia Award for investigative journalism

She also co‑founded the Chicago chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists, helping open doors for future generations of Black reporters.

A Mentor and Advocate

Colleagues remembered her as a powerful force in the newsroom.

“She was a relentless advocate for the truth,” said Kevin Cross, president of NBCU Local Chicago.

Others noted how deeply she cared about mentoring young journalists and pushing newsrooms to better serve their communities.

Retirement and Lasting Legacy

Ferguson retired in 2008 after a career defined by courage, compassion, and a commitment to social justice. She continued to speak publicly about journalism, equity, and civic responsibility.

Her investigations changed policies, freed the wrongfully convicted, and expanded representation in newsrooms across Chicago.

Renee Ferguson leaves behind a legacy rooted in truth‑telling, accountability, and service to the public.