Former St. Louis, Missouri sportscaster Brian McKenna was fatally struck in a pedestrian crash early Saturday morning, March 22, in the St. Louis Hills neighborhood. The 61-year-old, known for his contributions to KFNS 590 The Fan and his extensive charity work, died at the scene after being hit by a vehicle while crossing Hampton Avenue.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department reported that the incident happened around 1:06 a.m. at the intersection of Hampton and Nottingham Avenues. The preliminary investigation indicated that the vehicle was heading south on Hampton when McKenna was walking west across Hampton mid-block, between Nottingham and Murdoch avenues. Paramedics declared him dead at the scene, while the driver stayed on site and cooperated with the investigation.
McKenna was a prominent figure in St. Louis sports-talk radio for nearly two decades. A graduate of Lindbergh High School, he used his platform to support fundraising efforts, especially for police and children’s charities. He was instrumental in raising thousands of dollars for local causes, earning the reputation as the “most famous ‘unfamous’ person” in the city.
“This morning we received the horrible news of the passing of our friend, Brian McKenna,” wrote Joe Bommarito on social media. “Brian was an incredible person who brought a smile to your face by simply seeing him walk into the room. His charismatic personality was infectious. His positive attitude, toughness, as well as his sense of humor, during his battles to beat cancer was inspiring to everyone that knew him.”
In recent years, McKenna faced significant health challenges, including an aggressive form of skin cancer that required multiple surgeries, resulting in partial facial paralysis. Despite these challenges, he retained his positive outlook and humor, remaining active in the community.
The St. Louis community showed support for McKenna during his health struggles. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a parade of over 500 cars passed by his home to raise funds for his medical expenses, highlighting the impact he had made through his years of service.
Beyond his radio career, McKenna served as an emcee for various nonprofit organizations, assisting first responders, military families, and cancer patients. He was appointed grand marshal of the St. Patrick’s Day parade in 2018, an acknowledgment of his community status.
McKenna also had ties to local sports beyond broadcasting. He was the voice of the St. Louis Ambush, notably calling the team’s 1995 championship season. His dedication to sports and the community made him a unique and valued figure in St. Louis.
Friends and colleagues described McKenna as someone who was instantly recognizable throughout the city due to his friendly and outgoing demeanor. Even while battling cancer, he continued to host a weekly “talk show” from his home with a neighbor, maintaining his spirited approach to life.
The Accident Reconstruction Team from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department is conducting an ongoing investigation into the crash circumstances. The driver was not injured and is cooperating with authorities as the investigation seeks to determine all contributing factors.
News of McKenna’s untimely death has rapidly spread through the St. Louis community, with many sharing memories and tributes to a man known for his charitable work and vibrant presence. His influence extended beyond sports broadcasting, impacting many lives through his philanthropy and personal connections.
One friend described him as having a “heart of gold” that made him special to many in the city.
Details for funeral and memorial services are still being arranged as family and friends begin to cope with this sudden loss. The community that McKenna served so diligently is now mourning one of its most distinctive and generous members.