INDIANAPOLIS (WLKI) - 48-year-old Matt Bair, a longtime WIBC traffic reporter whose familiar voice helped guide Indianapolis-area commuters for eight years, has died.
According to WIBC, Bair was much more than the voice behind the station's traffic reports. His colleagues remembered him as a compassionate advocate, a trusted co-worker and a loyal friend who brought joy to the people around him.
Bair spent much of his career behind the microphone, helping listeners avoid traffic delays and find the best route through Indianapolis. His regular reports made him a familiar part of daily life for commuters throughout central Indiana.
WIBC Vice President and General Manager Andrea Kahrer said the station's staff was heartbroken by his death.
"We are heartbroken by his loss and are holding his family, friends and everyone who loved him close in our thoughts," Kahrer said. "Matt was so much more than a colleague. He was a treasured and trusted voice, a compassionate advocate, and a true friend to so many."
Kahrer said Bair's influence extended beyond his work on the air.
"He brought joy to everything he did, and the impact he made on our team, with our audience and this community cannot be overstated," Kahrer said. "We will truly miss him."
WIBC Operations Manager David Wood remembered Bair as someone with a big heart who was deeply loved by both his colleagues and listeners.
"It's a big loss for our listeners," Wood said. "We know they loved him, and we loved him a lot too."
For eight years, Bair's voice provided listeners with more than directions around construction, crashes and rush-hour congestion. It offered a familiar presence during early mornings, long drives and everyday commutes.
His death is being mourned by his co-workers, friends and the many listeners who came to know him through his work.
Bair's family has requested privacy. No additional information about his death was released.