R.I.P.: Chad Hasty, KFYO Lubbock Talk Host

Chad Hasty (1983-2026)

Chad Hasty, longtime West Texas radio host and influential voice in Lubbock and state politics, died Thursday at age 43.

Hasty passed away peacefully in his sleep early Thursday morning at his Lubbock County home, according to Townsquare Media, which operates News/Talk 95.1 & 970 KFYO. His cause of death was not immediately released, but officials believe it was from natural causes.

"News/Talk 95.1 & 970 KFYO and Townsquare Media are deeply saddened to share the news that longtime host, beloved personality, and Lubbock institution Chad Hasty passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday morning," the media group said in a statement posted Thursday afternoon.

Townsquare Media Lubbock Market President Dan Endom described the loss as sudden and heartbreaking. "Chad was not only a brilliant on-air host, but an even better friend," Endom said. "Our deepest condolences go out to Jennifer and his baby girl, Ava. It's hard to imagine not seeing his welcoming presence roaming the halls of Townsquare Media Lubbock."

Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, a Lubbock Republican, highlighted Hasty’s significant influence on state politics and conservative discourse.

"Texas has lost a powerful voice for conservative truth, integrity, and common sense," Burrows posted on social media. "Chad wasn’t just a broadcaster, he was one of the very best to ever cover the people, policy, and politics shaping the Texas Legislature and our state. He asked the right questions, gave fair room for debate, and, most importantly, he made sure Texans stayed informed."