Palisadian-Grown Journalist Reporting LA News

By TRILBY BERESFORD | Reporter

As a general assignment reporter with ABC7 Eyewitness News, Josh Haskell reports on “everything”—from the homeless epidemic to the dilemma of street scooters.

“I’m interested in issues of local politics; how the city tackles large problems,” he told the Palisadian-Post over the phone, from one newsroom to another. “My station is committed to covering all of Los Angeles and shedding light on stories that deserve attention.”

Haskell grew up in Pacific Palisades and is well acquainted with its special nature. “People’s perception of Los Angeles is traffic, congestion, people everywhere, but you can have a normal life in the Palisades,” he pointed out. “It’s very unique.”

Haskell attended Palisades Elementary Charter, Paul Revere Charter Middle and Santa Monica High schools. During this time, he was a regular on the baseball field, tennis court and community theater stage.

Recalling his early exposure to news coverage, Haskell explained that there were some natural disasters and major news events that prompted his curiosity: the 1994 earthquake, mudslides in Malibu, various California wildfires and the criminal trial of O.J. Simpson.

In addition, he referenced the Post coverage of events such as the annual July 4th Parade.
“I saw the value and key role of local papers to keep a community well informed,” he said. “There was a sense of pride.”

Haskell received a Master’s in Broadcast Journalism from the Columbia University School of Journalism, and went on to work as a reporter for KSNW-TV in Wichita, Kansas, for two years. Now, he’s back in town. “I’m excited to return to local news [in LA], because I love exploring the city [and its inhabitants],” he shared.

Referencing his current position, which is writing and pitch heavy, he added, “I try to appeal to as many people as I can and share both sides of every story.”

Follow Haskell on social media to remain updated on his stories at facebook.com/ABC7JoshHaskell. Read the ABC7 “In the Neighborhood” series to learn about where other reporters grew up and what shaped their perspective.