Journalism
Exercise in News Lead Writing
Identify the 5 Ws in each of the following sets of reporters notes for story leads and then write a lead for each one. Use your news judgment to determine what does or does not belong in the lead and prioritize the news.
1. Angel Valencia, 28, 105 East 139th Street
Driving on Saw Mill Parkway
Car went off an embankment
Flipped over, landed on street below at
Intersection of Concord and Commerce streets
Highway Patrolman Gus Blockman said
He is in critical condition at Muir Medical Center
His Rottweiler was riding in the car with him
It was injured and is being treated at an emergency
Veterinary Clinic in Yonkers
(sources: Blockman, hospital spokeperson)
2. Fire chief Leonard Basler said five-story commercial building
At Duboce Avenue and Wallace Street, Syosset
Extensively damaged by fire that started around 8:50 this morning
Roofers putting a new roof on the building apparently started the blaze
With a propane torch , Basler said The torch got out of control and ignited things.
No one was injured in the two alarm-fire but there was extensive
smoke and water damage
Tenants will have to move until the building is repaired
(source: Chief Basler)
3. Samantha Whithers, 2, 1821 Whitewater Lane, Bronx
In critical condition at Metro Medical Center
Bitten dozens of times by fathers pet ferret
John B. Whithers, father, 25 Olga Torres, mother, 24 held in city jail
Charged with child endangerment
Child bitten 50 times over chest and face required 100 stitches
Parents were asleep during the attack social workers said
Police Sgt. Mark Hastings said parents had been drinking beer and fell asleep
Four other children, under 7, placed with relatives
(source: Sgt. Hastings)
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