CBS News Atlanta Launches with Innovative Technology

Atlanta, September 15, 2025

News Summary

CBS News Atlanta made a significant impact with its launch, introducing augmented and virtual reality technologies for immersive news delivery. Airing on WUPA 69, the station focuses on local news, weather, and sports, with broadcasts at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. on weekdays. Led by anchor Jobina Fortson-Evans, the diverse team of journalists aims to address community issues through engaging storytelling. The launch comes amidst ongoing challenges within the region, highlighting a commitment to informative and impactful reporting.

Atlanta – CBS News Atlanta made its official debut on September 15, 2025, marking a significant milestone in local news broadcasting. The station, which operates on WUPA 69, provides local news, weather, and sports broadcasts at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. on weeknights. Notably, it is the first news station in the region to utilize fully immersive augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology, setting a new standard for how news is presented to viewers.

The innovative use of AR/VR allows CBS News Atlanta to break down complex topics with hyper-realistic simulations, giving viewers an interactive storytelling experience that transforms traditional news reporting. This immersive format is further enhanced by a virtual set that delivers dynamic experiences and rich visuals.

The launch of the station was marked by the hiring of a diverse team of journalists, creators, and leaders from the metro Atlanta area. This dedicated team focuses on authentic local insights and aims to address community issues through impactful storytelling. At the forefront of the station is anchor Jobina Fortson-Evans, a three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist with deep roots in Atlanta. Having previously worked at KGO-TV/ABC7 News in San Francisco and hosted “ATL Live,” Fortson-Evans is committed to showcasing the complexity and resilience of the Atlanta community.

Within just five weeks of its announcement, CBS News Atlanta successfully hired 50 staff members. Shawn Holder, the Vice President of News at the station, emphasized the importance of passion in their reporting. Reporter Alexa Liacko described the work environment as entrepreneurial while maintaining journalistic credibility. The team also welcomes correspondent Brian Unger, who transitioned from a two-decade career in Los Angeles to join the new venture. Assignment editors Ryan Dennis and Paradise Afshar are particularly focused on community-driven reporting to ensure that local narratives are highlighted.

Currently, CBS News Atlanta is operating from temporary quarters as renovations are underway at their permanent location. Future plans for the station include launching a morning news show, further expanding their community-focused reporting opportunities.

Despite its promising launch, the station faces challenges within a turbulent backdrop. Employees recently returned to the headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) following a shooting incident on August 8, which resulted in the death of one police officer. The gunman, identified as Patrick Joseph White, targeted CDC buildings, discharging 180 shots. While the motive remains unclear, it has been suggested that his grievances were related to the COVID-19 vaccine. Many CDC employees have reported heightened anxiety upon returning to work, prompting union president Yolanda Jacobs to voice concerns over employee safety and job security amidst ongoing layoffs. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is conducting an active investigation into the incident.

In addition, law enforcement recently arrested a suspect in connection with a robbery involving an armored truck outside a Kroger store in Atlanta. The robbery occurred on Metropolitan Parkway, where the driver was grazed by a bullet but is expected to recover. The assailant fled with a bag containing $50,000 before being apprehended after a traffic accident in Forest Park. The FBI is currently leading the investigation into this robbery.

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Additional Resources

• CBS News: Inside the Launch of CBS News Atlanta
• CBS News: CBS News Atlanta Launches Immersive Newsroom
• CBS News: CDC Workers Return to Headquarters After Deadly Shooting
• Google Search: CBS News Atlanta
• Wikipedia: CBS

Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER

The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.