Beloved TV news anchor dies aged 75 after cancer battle as heartbroken family pay tribute

Beloved Arizona TV news anchor, Frank Camacho, has passed away aged 75. Camacho died on Friday following a battle with prostate cancer, his devastated family announced in a Facebook post. They wrote: "Frank was a respected journalist known for his objective, intelligent, and witty style. While he interviewed numerous dignitaries, including U.S. Presidents Gerald Ford and Barack Obama, his favorite interviews were always with the everyday people of Arizona.

"Beyond his professional life, Frank was a passionate social justice activist, a devout Catholic, and a lifelong fan of the San Francisco Giants and Arizona Diamondbacks." They added: "He cherished every moment with his family, creating a legacy of love and treasured memories that will live on in the hearts of his loved ones."

A trailblazer in journalism, Camacho was recognised as one of the first Mexican-American anchors on air in the Phoenix area. His career began at local radio stations such as KRUX and KTAR, according to AZ Central.

Camacho also spent time working at the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce before transitioning to television. His TV career began as a reporter at CBS affiliate KPHO, later moving to Channel 3, where he also took on the role of weekend anchor.

He went on to win the National Television Academy Silver Circle Award in 2007. After retiring from TV in 2012, he served as the communications director for the Arizona Democratic Party.

Camacho's colleague Daryn Kagan paid tribute to the late star, saying there was "not a finer human".

He continued: "Somehow, I was lucky enough to have my desk right across from his for my 5+ years at Channel 3. When I think of all the things I learned during that time, far beyond what I learned as a journalist, is what I learned just watching Frank move through the world, his loyalty, his morals, his IMMENSE love for his family, these are the things I know I was meant to learn in my time in Phoenix."

Journalist Tyson Milanovich added on X: "I started my career at @AZFamily on weekends and Frank Camacho was our longtime weekend anchor.

"He covered some of the biggest political stories in Arizona history, yet was down to earth, kind and could be hilariously funny. A mentor, a true gentleman and a class act. RIP Frank."

Camacho is survived by his wife, Margie, six children and 10 grandchildren.