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Chris Lawrence


The morning voice of the Morning News on MetroNews has been associated with West Virginia Radio Corporation for more than two decades.  The native of Big Stone Gap, Virginia joined the company as an anchor at WAJR in Morgantown in 1990.

The University of Tennessee graduate not only excels in anchoring and reporting on MetroNews, but also has flourished in his coverage of hunting and fishing.  Chris serves as host of the popular West Virginia Outdoors each Saturday morning.

Chris has also won numerous awards for coverage of the hunting and fishing from the Outdoors Writers Association of America.  He has twice been awarded the coveted “President’s Award” by the organization for his efforts.  Chris has also been honored by the West Virginia Broadcasters Association and Society of Professional Journalists for his work. He was named Outdoor Writer of the year by the West Virginia Bowhunters Association.  He was also part of the news team at 58-WCHS Radio which has twice been awarded the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for excellence in electronic journalism by RTDNA.

When not working, you’ll likely find Chris somewhere outside.  He’s probably hunting, fishing, or enjoying time with his family.

Chris and his wife Samantha reside in Hurricane and have three children, Travis, Hank, and Savannah.  They also have two grand children.



Recent Articles by Chris Lawrence

Familiar names vie for a rare open U.S. Senate seat in W.Va.

Ten candidates, including some well known figures, seek nominations for a rare empty U.S. Senate seat from West Virginia

May 12, 2024 - 9:33 pm

Public access grows the popularity of the Buckhannon River

Create Buckhannon helps build public access to the Buckhannon River and the county's business owners are reaping the rewards

May 10, 2024 - 2:31 pm

State Police stress compliance is the safest plan in an encounter with law enforcement

Three people are dead in separate officer involved shootings this week in West Virginia. State Police say all were unnecessary.

May 10, 2024 - 12:15 pm

Hancock County tornado causes severe damage to a small area

Five buildings were destroyed in the brief tornado touchdown in the small community of Fairhaven in Hancock County. One person suffered a minor injury.

May 8, 2024 - 1:15 pm

Greenbrier County man killed in trooper involved shooting

State Police say armed suspect refused commands to drop his weapon and taser was ineffective, leading to the shooting

May 7, 2024 - 12:32 pm

Putnam County voters to decide again on fire service levy

Putnam County Fire Service Board says "...something must give." Amid the rising costs and stagnant revenues for fire service in the county.

May 6, 2024 - 2:18 pm

Three dead in separate fires in West Virginia

Since Friday, three people have died in home fires in the Mountain State

May 6, 2024 - 12:17 pm