Breaking news is a developing story that demands immediate reporting, typically because of its relevance or urgency. It can be about a natural disaster, a major accident, or a political upheaval that captures the public’s attention. Unlike regular news coverage, which may allow time for research and fact-checking, breaking news emphasizes timeliness and immediacy and often requires continuous updates as more information becomes available. This type of reporting challenges journalists because the pressure to report quickly can create misinformation or lead to sensationalism, which can undermine audiences’ trust in journalism.
As a news director, you can help your staff navigate the complexities of reporting breaking news. Ensure that your team is prepared by creating a plan of action and assessing the organization’s readiness to handle a breaking news situation. Consider how you will inform the public without causing panic or unnecessary alarm, and evaluate whether your station is equipped to serve the hearing-impaired with its content. Determine how you will interrupt non-news programming or, if you use a national network, what will happen to the feed so that affiliate stations can join in.
Never assume anything, particularly when it comes to eyewitness accounts of a tragic event like a shooting. Murphy’s law dictates that the one thing you assume will turn out to be wrong, and that’s especially true for reporters. Remember to always confirm a witness statement with the police, and be careful about using eyewitness statements on air. In the case of the Giffords shooting, NPR based its report on an eyewitness account that was later proven to be untrue.