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| Craig Heist (1959-2025) |
The Washington, D.C., and Baltimore sports media landscape lost a cherished voice on Friday, with the sudden passing of Craig Heist at age 66.
Known affectionately as "Heisty" to colleagues and fans alike, Heist was a veteran broadcaster whose warm smile, infectious laugh, and unwavering passion for sports made him a beloved staple in press boxes across the DMV. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed
He kicked off his career in 1979 as a DJ, sportscaster, and news anchor at WKHI in Ocean City, Maryland, while still a student—covering high school and college sports, including play-by-play for Salisbury University football.
This launchpad led to a storied path through the Mid-Atlantic airwaves, blending radio, TV, and print elements into a career defined by grit and camaraderie.Heist's professional highlights included:Early and Mid-Career (1980s–2012): Roles at various stations, including 14 years at WTOP Radio in D.C., where he reported on local high school teams, college athletics, and pro sports. He became a three-time Maryland Sportscaster of the Year, earning accolades for his engaging style and reliability.
Additional Contributions: Frequent guest panelist and occasional host on Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN)'s Nats Talk, plus coverage of the Baltimore Orioles (over 35 years), Washington Commanders, Capitals, and Ravens. He was a "grinder," as WTOP Sports Director George Wallace put it—always in the trenches, whether at Camden Yards or Nationals Park.
Heist's beats spanned MLB, NFL, NHL, and more, but baseball held a special place; colleagues like Baltimore Positive's Luke Jones noted, "Baseball season won't be the same without him," recalling countless nights in the Camden Yards press box.
Just days before his passing, Heist had covered the Washington Capitals' season opener on October 8 and was slated for the Commanders' game on October 13.
✔Baltimore Orioles: "The Orioles are saddened to learn of the passing of Craig Heist, veteran sports broadcaster who covered the team for more than 35 years. We send our condolences to his wife, Suzanne, and the many friends he made throughout his career."
✔Washington Commanders: "We are saddened by the sudden passing of long-time sports broadcaster, Craig Heist. Heisty’s dedication, professionalism and warm presence were always felt throughout the press box."
Fellow broadcasters shared personal stories: WTOP's Dave Preston recalled Heist's "good spirits" at the recent Capitals game, while Shaun Somers of 106.7 The Fan lamented, "First Pete Medhurst and now Craig... two amazing guys that helped me out tremendously during my start in radio."
WTOP's Dave Johnson remembered meeting him in the 1980s at Memorial Stadium, calling him a "grinder" who got the job done no matter what.