TV reporter smacked on bottom during live broadcast: ‘You violated, objectified and embarrassed me’
Authorities promise to take action against runner after WSAV New’s Alex Bozarjian assaulted while covering road race in Georgia
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A TV reporter said she was left “violated” and “embarrassed” after being smacked on the bottom during a live broadcast.
Alex Bozarjian, of WSAV News, was reporting roadside from a 10km race in Savannah, Georgia, when a male participant ran up behind and struck her.
Ms Bozarjian appeared visibly shocked in footage of the incident as streams of runners continued to pass her on Savannah Bridge.
She later condemned the runner, saying: “To the man who smacked my butt on live TV this morning: you violated, objectified, and embarrassed me.
“No woman should EVER have to put up with this at work or anywhere! Do better.”
Fellow reporters showed their support for Ms Bozarjian’s statement on Twitter, while criticising the man responsible.
“I’m so heated for you,” Emily Bloch of the Florida Times-Union said. “This is disgusting. Sending strength and solidarity your way. Now, let’s get this grimy dude and warn the women in his life.”
ABC News 13’s Caitlyn Penter wrote: “DO NOT TOUCH REPORTERS. Period.”
Ms Bozarjian was covering the annual Savannah Bridge Run on Saturday when the incident happened.
Robert Wells, director of the Savannah sports council, promised to find the runner and take action.
“Alex, what happened today is 100 per cent unacceptable,” Mr Wells said. “You have my assurance we will identify him.
“This will not be tolerated at our events. Glad we have race bibs and photos for easy identification.”
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments