News Anchor Todd Tongen Dies at 56

Todd Tongen, best known as the weekend news anchor at Miami TV station WPLG, was found dead in his home by police. He was 56 years old.

The reporter’s wife, who was out of town, was unable to reach him, so she asked a friend to check on him. Soon after that, police were called to the scene and found him dead. So far, the cause of death is unknown.

Tongen, who worked at the same news station for almost three decades, had many popular segments, but the most remarkable one was “10 Taxi,” in which he would interview his guests in a 1967 Checker taxi.

Among the most known celebrities who joined him in the ride, there were Joan Rivers and Vin Diesel. Apart from that, he trained with the Miami Dolphins and even flew with the Air Force Thunderbirds for other segments.

His career as a broadcaster started in 1983. Unlike many TV personalities, he began as a radio disc jockey on a western station in his native Minnesota.

Tongen is survived by his wife, Karen, and his two sons, Tyler and Ryker.