NEW YORK (PIX11) – Ruschell Boone, a news anchor at New York City television station NY1, has died at age 48.

Boone passed away on Sunday due to complications related to pancreatic cancer, NY1 announced on Tuesday.

Boone was an Emmy Award-winning journalist who first joined NY1 in 2002. She grew up in New York City and was a mother of two children, according to NY1.

“For 21 years, Ruschell was a member of our staff, as well as a friend and mentor to many,” NY1 shared. “For someone who lived and breathed the five boroughs, NY1 was a perfect match, and she joined the station in 2002 as our Queens reporter. Despite her long list of awards and accolades, Ruschell was always most focused on her family, including her mother, her siblings, her husband Todd and her two sons, Carter and Jackson.”

Gov. Kathy Hochul released a statement on Boone’s passing, sending her condolences to NY1.

“Ruschell was a tenacious journalist, a voice for the voiceless, and embodied the spirit of New York City,” Hochul said. “I know her reporting left an indelible mark on the city and inspired so many New Yorkers.”

NY1 said Boone learned she had pancreatic cancer in 2022 and was open about her experience throughout the difficult process.

“[Boone] was devoted to raising awareness about cancer and other health issues,” NY1 shared. “And while she was facing a constant fight of her own, Ruschell felt it was important to extend a hand and help others in their time of need. Wherever Ruschell was, she always made time to laugh, to dance, and to celebrate life.”

Mayor Eric Adams released a statement on Boone’s death, describing her as a “fighter.”

“She took on her battle with cancer with strength, and grace, while never losing focus as she delivered the news to the city she loved so much,” Adams said.

Boone spent her early childhood in Jamaica before moving with her family to the Bronx when she was 11 years old, according to NY1. She graduated from Harry S. Truman High School in the Bronx and Baruch College in Manhattan.

“A mother, a wife, a daughter, a sister, a journalist, a Jamaican-American, a true New Yorker, Ruschell leaves behind a rich and loving legacy for her family, her friends and her city,” NY1 said.

Finn Hoogensen is a digital journalist who has covered local news for more than five years. He has been with PIX11 News since 2022. See more of his work here.