Ashley Sears
It’s unusual for a 9-year-old child to be captivated by the news. But my parents can attest, I was that strange kid who stayed up past my bedtime to watch the evening news. Sometimes, I have to pinch myself knowing that I’m living out my dream every day. Here I am all grown up, still staying up late for the news.
I joined FOX6 in June 2012. I’ve had the privilege to share stories of courage, tragedy and triumph across southeast Wisconsin. You can find me on the nine and ten o’clock newscasts, but I’ve reported on every shift at FOX6. I’ve covered some of the biggest stories in the state. I was one of the first on the scene during the Sikh Temple shooting, standing with victims’ families trying to gather information about what took place. I extensively covered demonstrations following the death of Dontre Hamilton. And I reported for hours on live television in the middle of the Sherman Park unrest. I am now reporting on some of Wisconsin's Most Wanted – with help from the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force.
My work has been recognized by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. I’m a three-time Emmy nominee.
Prior to Milwaukee, I worked for WCIA in Champaign, Illinois. Before that, I spent a year at WAND as a Champaign bureau reporter. My time in Illinois led me to my husband, Ben Handelman. You might know him as the weekend anchor here at FOX6.
I was raised in Northwest Indiana, where my parents always encouraged me to follow my passion, not my pension. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in political science from Indiana University. Go Hoosiers! I earned my Master’s degree from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University.
I love telling your stories. Keep sharing them with me. You can find me on Twitter and Facebook.
The latest from Ashley Sears
Backlash over drag queen story time at Menomonee Falls bakery
A drag queen story time draws backlash in Menomonee Falls. A bakery was planning to host the story hour as pride month fundraiser. It was met with threats and a push to boycott.
Wisconsin's Most Wanted: Artesia Clark accused of abusing baby
A woman accused of repeatedly abusing her boyfriend’s baby, who later died, is on the run. U.S. Marshals are searching for 32-year-old Artesia Clark.
Kia thefts in Milwaukee; car company wants to curb problem
Kia thefts have run rampant in Milwaukee. Officials with the automaker say they want to help curb the problem – and they are hosting a free software upgrade drive-thru for customers.
Milwaukee police ceremony honors officers who went above and beyond
36 shots. That's what four Milwaukee police officers encountered during a chase last October.
Wisconsin's Most Wanted: George Mitchell on the run for shooting
Investigators say an argument about a pack of cigarettes ended in a shooting earlier this month. The suspected gunman is on the run.
Wisconsin's Most Wanted: Israel Israel arrested at Mall of America
Israel Israel was just 19 years old when he was arrested for first-degree sexual assault. Investigators said he committed the crime against a woman he did not know, in a public place.
Milwaukee apartment elevator down for weeks, not the first time
One elevator for 230 units, the people living at the Locust Court Apartments say they are fed up after an elevator broke down.
Milwaukee bird problem, animal control professional explains
Hundreds, if not thousands of seagulls, have taken over an empty lot on Milwaukee's north side. An animal control professional explains the issue.
Glendale student parks bus safely, driver had medical emergency
A Glen Hills Middle School student came to the rescue on Wednesday night after his bus driver passed out behind the wheel.
Racine County police chase, drug arrest; Kenosha man in custody
A 31-year-old man from Kenosha is in police custody following a traffic stop that led to police chase in Mount Pleasant late on Sunday, April 21.