Veteran El Paso TV news photographer Raul Ybarra dies at 63
EL PASO, Texas -- Veteran El Paso television news photographer Raul Ybarra died Monday.
Ybarra, a friend and colleague to all at ABC-7, was 63 years old. His heart gave out as he battled recent health ailments.
Raul spent his career as an ace photographer and assignment editor at KVIA. Over the past four decades, he also worked at KTSM, KDBC and KFOX.
His impact in El Paso newsrooms is hard to quantify. He conducted countless interviews and with his lens captured key moments in Borderland history. Raul was direct and unafraid and often covered city and county government. As a veteran photographer, he was the go-to trainer for new reporters. He had a good sense of humor- and he loved his pickup truck.
The ABC-7 family extends our deepest sympathy to Raul's father, brother, nephew and sister. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Raul was a mentor to many, regardless of station affiliation and through multiple generations; he will be deeply missed. Some of those in the El Paso journalism field took to Twitter to share their thoughts and memories.
What sad news. Raul was a great guy. Always willing to help in anyway possible. He’ll be missed. May he RIP. https://t.co/sQeEl5tx5l
— Rick Cabrera (@RickECabrera) June 15, 2021
I’m so sorry to hear this. Raul was the consummate professional. My condolences to his family and to his colleagues at @abc7breaking and other stations. https://t.co/p8DCg392ci
— Bob Moore (@BobMooreNews) June 15, 2021
Raul,
— Mauricio Casillas (@MauricioABC7) June 14, 2021
You didn’t have to look out for me. You didn’t have to take a rookie reporter under your wing. You didn’t have to teach me how to be a better journalist. You didn’t have to mentor me.
But — you did.
I’m eternally grateful for your friendship. Rest In Peace 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/1McXlQjakV
