Virginia TV station WDBJ's Mornin' breakfast show returned to the air Thursday morning, one day after journalists Alison Parker and Adam Ward were killed on air.
Anchor Kimberly McBroom — who was broadcasting in the studio when the tragedy occurred Wednesday — described today's show as "a broadcast like no other."
The morning team — made up of McBroom, Steve Grant, and Leo Hirsbrunner — smiled as they shared memories of the slain reporters, and described their deaths as "heartbreaking on so many levels." They said the tragedy was "by far one of the most difficult stories we've ever covered."
Steve Grant is not a WDBJ employee, but one of a number of staff brought in from Springfield, Missouri's KY3 to assist the Virginia station with its broadcasts in the wake of the attack, according to the Springfield News-Leader. Another Springfield station, KSPR, also sent staff to Roanoke.
Meteorologist Hirsbrunner was visibly upset during the one of his morning spots, saying of his colleagues, "We're going to miss them so, so much."
McBroom then offered the meteorologist words of encouragement, saying, "You got this, partner; we're getting through it."
During a later forecast, Hirsbrunner struggled to hold back tears, and said, "Adam and Alison, this is for you."
He also posted this tweet ahead of today's show:
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Though our hearts are heavy and tears still flow, mother nature will give us a quiet weather day. Partly sunny today.
McBroom also tweeted ahead of the broadcast:
Preparing for a very difficult @WDBJ7Mornin broadcast. But I am strengthened by your love and condolences. We will get through this together
The station held a moment's silence for Ward and Parker, with the presenting team joining hands in their memory.
McBroom also thanked members of the public for their support: "Your outpouring of support means more than you can imagine."
Watch the on-air moment of silence here:
A replay of the broadcast is streaming here:
Correction
Chris Hurst was Alison Parker's boyfriend. A previous version of this story listed him as her fiancé.