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'Storm Chasers' Matt Hughes' death: Unrelated to dangerous weather
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Fans of the Discovery Channel's "Storm Chasers" were shocked at to learn in the Nov. 3 episode that meteorologist and longtime storm chaser Matt Hughes had passed away. The episode, which chronicled Hughes' final chase, was dedicated to his memory -- and was aptly titled "Dedication."In honor of Hughes' contributions to "Storm Chasers," the Discovery Channel established a memorial fund to benefit his two young sons. Hughes, a seasoned chaser, joined the team during the 2009 tornado season, and quickly grew tired of his backseat role.
"Matt's been asking for more control all year long," says team leader Sean Casey at the start of the episode before letting Hughes take the reins to direct the TIV2. Hughes goes on to lead the team to what the Discovery Channel calls "their best tornado intercept ever." It is Hughes' last chase.
The cause of Hughes' death has not been confirmed. He is survived by his wife Kendra and two boys, Hunter and Collin.
Upcoming episodes of "Storm Chasers," airing Wednesdays at 10 p.m. ET, will highlight the team's struggle as they mourn the loss of their friend.
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Photo Credit: Discovery
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OMG!!! I am so sorry to hear of this. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family, kids, friends & co-workers! Very tragic loss.
Such a shame--the loss of a great man. Rest in Peace.
R.I.P Matt Hughes
Prayers go out to friends,famly,fans,
and fellow storm chasers
Im sorry to hear this.. Me and my sister always watch the shows and feel very sorry that a fellow has been put in Heaven ! Rip matt and hope you alrite up there :)
Amanda Matthews, spokeswoman for Cedgwick County Forensic Science Center, confirmed that Hughes’ cause of death was suicide.
May he RIP and always be in the PERFECT seat for heavens storms
what gets me in the heart most, is that it was soon after he got to be in his first tornado and the next day... i got a little teary when i first heard the news, its so sad, he will be missed though, im watching the new episode on wednesday, when sean first got the call with the news of matt... its messed up and tragic but things happen...
Have fun storm chasing in heaven Matt
Hope you make a TIV3
Have a blast in haven filming and chasing storms
we will all miss you
The truly sad thing is that Matt died right at the apex of his short career. He finally got Sean to listen to and trust his decisions and was richly rewarded with an epic experience the likes none of them had witnessed. Then he was gone in a flash, like a human tornado lifting into heaven. May his spirit guide the TIV team to many successes in the future.