State, local leaders react to passing of former WJZ anchor, reporter Pat Warren: 'A friend to Baltimoreans'

BALTIMORE -- WJZ is mourning the loss of Pat Warren, a co-worker for nearly 30 years who passed away.

A public Celebration of Life will be held from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, on Frankford Avenue in Baltimore.

You may remember Pat Warren. She was an anchor, and reporter, who spent much of her time at WJZ covering Annapolis and the legislature.

Pat grew up in Canton, Ohio, and came to WJZ from Texas in 1992, bringing to WJZ her professionalism, determination, and sharp, intelligent reporting.

No matter the subject, you could count on Pat for accuracy and clarity. She actually began her tenure as a weekend anchor.

Soon it became clear politics and everything Annapolis was a perfect fit for Pat's skills.

She interviewed former Governor Bob Ehrlich many times.

News of Pat's death will, no doubt, reverberate at the Capitol as it does in our newsroom.

State and local leaders offer condolences

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott shared a sentiment on social media.

"Pat Warren has walked with me since my councilman days, a no-nonsense reporter who always kept it real on all things Baltimore," the mayor said. "Her time at WJZ has shaped Baltimore's news scene and impacted generations. She wasn't just a reporter—she was a friend to Baltimoreans."  

Mayor Scott continued, "Her legacy will live on, reminding us to chase truth and serve our community with our heart."

Congressman Kweisi Mfume, from Maryland, also sent his condolences.

"I am truly saddened to learn of the passing of former WJZ-TV anchor and political reporter Pat Warren," Congressman Mfume said. "Without prejudice, she brought a sense of class and balance to her reporting of the facts. For those of us who knew her she will be deeply missed. The eloquence of her example will be admired for many years to come."

Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan posted his thoughts and condolences.

"It is with deep sorrow that we learn of the passing of Pat Warren, a revered journalist and a familiar face to all who followed Maryland politics," Hogan said. "Pat's tenure at WJZ, especially her coverage of Annapolis and the legislature, reflected the epitome of journalistic excellence. Her reports from the State House were not just informative but a testament to her unwavering commitment to truth and clarity. Her passing is a significant loss to journalism and to Maryland. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the halls of the Capitol and beyond. Yumi and I offer our deepest condolences to her family, colleagues, and all who were touched by her remarkable career."   

Former Maryland Gov. Bob Ehrlich said Pat Warren was "the consummate professional."

"She was universally trusted in Annapolis. Always straight up with no agenda. Just the news-but so often with a fun sense of humor. And a great laugh…. Rest in peace, my friend," Ehrlich said.  

U.S. Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger, from Maryland, said in a social media post that he is "saddened" by Warren's passing.

"She was a Baltimore legend, invited into the living rooms of so many families, including my own, for her substance + balance," he said. "We've had so many conversations over the years - she was always fair and gracious."  

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore posted on social media about Warren.

"I'm deeply saddened by the passing of Pat Warren," Moore said. "She was a good, fair reporter who loved Baltimore and her work made a meaningful difference in the lives of Marylanders. The First Lady and I offer our condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues."