Phil Taitt
Prior to joining WABC, he anchored weekend evening newscasts at NEWS12 and reported nightside and on breaking news in the city. As a journalist, he strives to be out front and at the epicenter of important events and issues that matter to New Yorkers, with reports that are memorable and meaningful. Topics he's highlighted include gun violence, housing, politics, and social justice. Hitting the streets of his hometown, Phil is Brooklyn-bred with both Caribbean and British roots.
Memorable reports of his include days-long coverage of the social unrest following the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. He also led highly watched political coverage of the NYC Primary of Mayor Eric Adams, and the historic election of Vanessa L Gibson, the first woman to represent the Bronx as Borough President. Also, during one of the city's darkest hours, the Twin Parks tragedy, a fire that claimed the lives of 17 New Yorkers, Phil helmed several hours of live coverage, keeping New Yorkers informed.
One of Taitt's proudest works was his Emmy Award-winning 30-minute half-hour special, Next Generation Dreams. The Black History Month piece, filmed in Atlanta, Georgia, was an exclusive conversation with the family of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. At the King home, Taitt talked with Martin Luther King III, Arndrea King, and their daughter Yolanda about voting rights, critical race theory, and their hopes for the future, in aiming to fulfill Dr. King's dream.
Phil graduated from St. Francis College with a bachelor's degree in communications - public relations and advertising. He interned at FOX 5 Good Day New York and Spectrum NY1 and has worked for other media outlets. Phil is a proud member of the National Association of Black Journalists. When he isn't reporting, you can catch him serving his community through his local non-profit, which aims to give access and opportunity to young people, by engaging with today's leaders.
Phil's Stories
Caribbean culture takes center stage at New York Carnival Parade in Brooklyn
As J'Ouvert ushers in the New York Carnival Parade, thousands are celebrating Caribbean culture, music and tradition across Brooklyn with a full day of festivities.
NYC schools prepare for students' return with focus on strengthening connections
As New York City students prepare to return to class Sept. 10, Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels said he is focused on strengthening connections between students and teachers.
NYC Council announces $1M for 9/11 education, free museum visits for 20,000 students
As New York City prepares to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11, city leaders are announcing a major investment in educational programs aimed at helping public school students understand the attacks and their lasting impact.
NYC schools ban AI through eighth grade in sweeping classroom technology overhaul
Mayor Mamdani says children need "human connection" in the classroom as NYC launches a one-year AI moratorium for students through 8th grade.
Speeding BMW driver wanted after father of 5 on bicycle killed in Bronx crash
Loved ones said the victim frequently used his bicycle to get around and leaves behind five children. He was also one of six siblings.
Amtrak reopens East River Tunnel line damaged by Superstorm Sandy
The tunnel, which carries more than 450 daily Amtrak, Long Island Rail Road and NJ Transit trains, underwent a year-long overhaul after sustaining damage during Superstorm Sandy in 2012.
Manhattan subway train fire injures 8 MTA workers, 6 firefighters at Astor Place station
A fire on a subway work train filled the Astor Place station with smoke early Tuesday, injuring 8 MTA workers and 6 firefighters. Service on the 4 and 6 lines was disrupted.
Son of retired NYPD sergeant, 12, killed in Bronx stray shooting; suspect charged
A 12-year-old Bronx boy who police say was an innocent bystander killed by stray gunfire has been identified as the son of a retired NYPD detective sergeant, according to the Sergeants Benevolent Association.
Police search for 2 suspects after off-duty NYPD officer stabbed in Queens
Police are searching for two suspects accused of stabbing an off-duty NYPD officer during an early-morning confrontation in Queens.
Mount Vernon woman fatally shot in the Bronx; gunman flees on moped
The victim was found with multiple gunshot wounds to the chest and was rushed to a local hospital, where she died.