Brian Garnett, former reporter for Hartford CBS affiliate WFSB, died Sunday of pancreatic cancer. Garnett, who most recently worked as the director of external affairs for the Connecticut Department of Corrections, reported for WSFB for 21 years.

Anchor Dennis House announced the news on the WFSB Sunday newscast, calling Garnett a “top-notch journalist who began his career at WFSB in 1980.” With his voice cracking from emotion, House added, “Brian broke numerous stories around the state.  Brian died earlier today after a long battle with cancer.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Brian’s family and friends during this sad time,” said Connecticut Governor Dan Malloy and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman in a statement. “He served the State of Connecticut for nearly 12 years—his work in the Department’s communications and legislative units will be missed by his colleagues, and his absence will be felt across the entire agency.”

Connecticut senator Richard Blumenthal also released a statement on Garnett’s pasing saying, “Brian was a great public servant, colleague, reporter and friend. He will be deeply missed for his intellect, intelligence and good humor. My heart goes out to his family.”

WVIT anchor Gerry Brooks told the Hartford Courant he met Garnett in the 1970s while working at WPOP radio. He said the two bonded when Garnett put crayfish in Brooks’ typewriter. “I knew he had a screw loose and he knew I had a screw loose. For 40 years we were friends after that.”

Garnett was 57 years old.