Weather Channel Meteorologist Killed in Car Crash

Nicholas Wiltgen, 39-year-old meteorologist for The Weather Channel, died on Sunday evening in a car crash. The incident occurred in a parking garage at Atlanta’s Colony Square Mall. Investigators say that the car went through a parking garage wall while “traveling at a high rate of speed.” Wiltgen crashed through the wall and struck a hotel worker, who is being treated for minor, non-life-threatening injuries.

The Weather Channel released a statement on the tragedy,

“We have lost a treasured member of The Weather Channel family. Nick Wiltgen was at Weather for more than 15 years as a senior digital meteorologist and integral member of our content team. Millions read his work every week and were better for it. He was a dedicated, passionate member of our family and we will miss him deeply. Our heartfelt sympathy is with his family and friends.”

Co-worker Mark Elliot tweeted:

Saddened by the loss of my friend and colleague @WxNick. Our wx facts will never be as full. You will be truly missed.

— Mark Elliot (@MarkElliotWx) January 25, 2016

Mark Guilbeau, senior investigator with the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office, claimed Wiltgen’s death was a suicide, although this has not been confirmed.