Lauren Martinez
My love for journalism sparked by a suggestion from my dad in high school. It led me to pursue a degree in Broadcast Electronic and Communication Arts from SFSU.
My career spans from being a morning producer in Bend, Oregon, to an evening anchor in Chico. During those three years, our small newsroom covered some of the biggest stories out of Northern California, including the Camp Fire in 2018. To this day the Camp Fire remains California's deadliest and most destructive wildfire in the state's history.
I worked briefly in Sacramento in 2019 before joining ABC7 as a freelance reporter. There, I covered the pandemic's impact on the Bay Area.
I experienced the COVID-19 shutdown in one city, and the reopening in another.
In November 2020, I moved to FOX5 in Las Vegas as a weekend anchor and reporter. It was there I covered the city's reopening and economic recovery.
Throughout my career, I have been honored with an Edward R. Murrow Award and two Emmys.
Now, as a full-time member of ABC7's news team, I feel incredibly grateful.
I will be based in our South Bay bureau.
I can't wait to report on the most innovative companies and groundbreaking technologies in Silicon Valley, as well as the vibrant and diverse communities of the South Bay.
I'm excited to share my work with you on social media, where you can connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.. And if you have a story idea, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at at lauren.b.martinez@abc.com
Let's uncover the most fascinating and inspiring stories together!
Lauren's Stories
Cherry picking season is back in the Bay Area after weather causes brief delay
Pick-your-own cherries season is back in the Bay Area and families flocked to Borello Family Farms in Morgan Hill over Memorial Day weekend.
South Bay animal shelter has over 900 pets in urgent need for adoptions or fosters
These animals are in need of their furever homes 🐾❤️ San Jose Animal Care and Services says they're seeing a record number of dogs, cats and other animals that are coming into the shelter as both strays and owners surrendering.
Crews contain grass fire near NB I-280, Hwy 92 in San Mateo Co.
Although the fire was small, smoke could be seen for miles in San Mateo County. A reminder that more fires are just around the corner with summer on the way.
How a service dog has helped SJ veteran recover from PTSD with 'unconditional love'
Marine veteran Emilio Gallegos and his service dog Samson are being featured in a documentary about the daily struggles of living with PTSD and how their inseparable bond has helped lead to a path of healing.
Bay Area tribute artist keeping Tina Turner's legacy alive
For the past six years, Bay Area artist Lea Sweet has honored Tina Turner by singing the "Queen of rock 'n' roll's" hit songs. She intends to keep performing to keep Tina's legacy alive for generations to come.
San Jose moves forward to keep San Pedro Street a permanent pedestrian-only walkway
City leaders and business owners alike say they hope the project will attract more people to downtown San Jose, showcasing its many restaurants and bars within walking distance.
Excitement grows as Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup head to Bay Area in 2026
The year 2026 is going to be a big year for football and soccer fans as the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup will take place at Levi's Stadium.
Small businesses, food trucks and artists celebrate AAPI Heritage Month at SJ's night market
"Having a community that focuses on being able to tell our stories and then being able to tell our stories around some of the issues, is needed."
'A week's worth of beer in 2 hours': Block party in downtown SJ boosts business
Community members and local owners were happy to see downtown San Jose alive during a community block party that featured live music, art, and more than 100 businesses.
South Bay's reentry program aims to help formerly incarcerated build a business
Santa Clara County's reentry incubator program aims to create a positive change for those with a criminal record, that will ultimately benefit the entire community. Just ask Marshall Williams, who started his own pet product company in 2021 through the program.