A Pittsburgh-area official apologized for comments targeting KDKA Radio afternoon host Colin Dunlap. The remarks followed a dispute over wildfire smoke and air quality concerns.
What We Know: Allegheny County Director of Communications Abigail Gardner apologized Monday after suggesting Dunlap should jump off a bridge over comments he made about air quality following Canadian wildfire smoke entering the region. Gardner also remains on administrative leave while Allegheny County conducts an internal investigation into the matter. The controversy began last week after Gardner criticized Dunlap’s comments publicly. Her remarks drew backlash because they referenced suicide while attacking a media figure’s opinion.
What They Said: “I made a tasteless comment out of frustration, and I apologize for my lapse in judgment. Suicide should not be a topic that is joked about or used to insult others. My comments were out of line, and I especially apologize to the employees of Allegheny County that I did not hold myself to a higher standard while representing the county.” -Allegheny County Director of Communications Abigail Gardner
What Remains Unclear: Allegheny County has not announced when its internal investigation will conclude or what disciplinary action, if any, could follow. Gardner’s status with the county remains uncertain while officials review the situation.
What It Means: Dunlap noted that Gardner apologized to her colleagues, but she did not directly apologize to him. The incident highlights the scrutiny public officials face when discussing members of the media. Additionally, comments involving suicide often receive heightened attention because of the potential harm and sensitivity surrounding the subject.
For Dunlap, the apology addresses part of the controversy, but his comments indicate he believes a direct acknowledgment of the remarks toward him is still missing.
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Garrett Searight is Barrett Media’s News Editor, which includes writing daily news stories, features, and opinion columns. He joined Barrett Media in 2022 after a decade leading several radio brands in several formats, as well as a 5-year stint working in local television. In addition to his work with Barrett Media, he is a radio and TV play-by-play broadcaster. Reach out to him at Garrett@BarrettMedia.com.