ESPN Broadcaster John Saunders Dies at 61

Longtime ESPN and ABC broadcaster John Saunders died Wednesday at the age of 61. 

The news was announced on ESPN.com, and ESPN President John Skipper released the following statement:

"

John was an extraordinary talent, and his friendly, informative style has been a warm welcome to sports fans for decades. His wide range of accomplishments across numerous sports and championship events is among the most impressive this industry has ever seen. More importantly, John was a beloved and devoted family man who cared deeply about people and causes, as evidenced by his long-standing efforts as a passionate board member for The V Foundation for Cancer Research.

He was one of the most significant and influential members of the ESPN family, as a colleague and mentor, and he will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this extremely difficult time.

"

The Saunders family also released a statement, via ESPN's Josh Krulewitz: 

"

This tragic news brings us unspeakable sorrow. John was the patriarch of our family, and we can’t believe he is gone. We are sincerely touched by the outpouring of support and sadness, which is a reflection of the character and integrity that defined him. While we don’t yet have all the specifics, John wasn’t feeling well physically in recent days and sadly, he was unresponsive earlier this morning. We appreciate all of the thoughts and prayers for our cherished father, husband, brother and uncle.

"

Hastings-on-Hudson Police Chief Anthony Visalli told TMZ emergency responders arrived to Saunders' home around 4 AM, but couldn't resuscitate him.

Saunders was most recently a studio host for ABC's college football coverage.

Per ESPNMediaZone.com, Saunders was among the longest-tenured on-air personalities at ESPN, having joined the network in 1986.

The Ajax, Ontario, Canada, native was previously a standout junior hockey player, and he went on to lend his broadcasting talents in a number of different areas, including covering all four major sports and serving as the host of The Sports Reporters for 15 years.

In addition to his work in broadcasting, Saunders was a well-known philanthropist who helped fund programs in support of those with cancer and juvenile diabetes.