St. Louis is mourning the loss of beloved sportscaster Brian McKenna, who died at the age of 61 after being struck by a car. The tragic incident, which occurred near his home, marks an abrupt end to McKenna's illustrious career and follows his valiant battle against cancer.
KSDK reported that McKenna, a cornerstone figure in the St. Louis sports scene, had been walking on Nottingham Avenue early Saturday morning when he was struck by a vehicle.
The accident took place around 1:00 a.m., and despite prompt response by paramedics, McKenna was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver involved in the incident remained at the site and is fully cooperating with local authorities during their investigation. Fortunately, the driver was not physically harmed.
McKenna was more than just a familiar voice on the airwaves; he was a cherished community figure. He served as a radio host on KFNS 590 The Fan and frequently emceed nonprofit events throughout the St. Louis area. Additionally, McKenna took pride in serving as a brand ambassador for the St. Louis Hero Network, reflecting his passion for community service.
Known for his charismatic saying, "your vibe attracts your tribe," McKenna left an indelible mark on those around him. His positive outlook, particularly during his battles with cancer, was a source of inspiration.
During his illness, over $125,000 was raised by the community to support his treatment, exemplifying the high esteem in which he was held.
McKenna's resilience was well documented, as he overcame a strenuous battle with cancer. His illness never dampened his spirits, and those close to him remember his refusal to adopt a defeatist attitude. "He was such an extrovert," recalled a friend. "He just had to wait it out. It was really brave how he fought the disease."
His sense of humor remained intact throughout his struggles and he consistently brought joy to others. Jeff Rick, a close friend, spoke of their strong bond, saying, "We're such close friends. He was really good at giving advice." Their long conversations touched on a wide range of topics, cementing their deep connection.
Despite the hardships McKenna faced, he was known for his joyous interactions with fans and friends. "He never met a stranger," another friend noted, highlighting McKenna's exceptional ability to engage with others sincerely. This capacity to connect with people on a personal level made him a cherished fixture within the St. Louis community.
His presence at events like the Dogtown St. Patrick's Day Parade, where he was honored as Grand Marshal in 2018, further cemented his status.
The parade was an important celebration in his life, as he embraced his Irish roots with enthusiasm. One friend humorously commented that St. Patrick's Day was like Christmas for McKenna.
In the wake of his death, McKenna's friends and loved ones are left grappling with their loss. "Nobody wants it to be real," Rick expressed, alluding to the disbelief and sorrow felt by many. For those who knew him closely, McKenna was not just a media personality but a pivotal part of their lives.
His infectious charisma and warm personality are echoed in the words of Joe Mazzola, who said, "I'm so glad my son got to know what a giving person Brian was."
These sentiments are universally shared, with many describing him as the most famous "unfamous" person they had ever met, thanks to his humility and relatability.
The St. Louis community's outpouring of support during McKenna's battle with cancer is a testament to the impact he had on those around him. "The community reached out and helped him immensely," Rick stated. This shared effort exemplifies the strong network McKenna built over the years.
As details of McKenna's funeral arrangements are still being finalized, those who knew him are taking solace in sharing fond memories and celebrating the life of a man who touched so many. Through their remembrance, McKenna's legacy of positivity, resilience, and empathy continues to shine.
