Franque Thompson
I am incredibly honored to be a member of the FOX 13 News team, working alongside some of the most elite journalists in the United States. I joined the team as a reporter in August 2019.
Growing up, I was a very shy girl with extremely low self-esteem. I thought I would never see the day when I could turn on a television and see myself on the screen.
Instead of hiding in the shadows, I took a chance on faith and stepped into the light. I won my first beauty pageant at the age of 16, and from then on, I began to see my potential. Taking that chance was the hardest, but most rewarding decision I have ever made. The adrenaline of pageantry and on-stage presentation jump-started my interest in journalism.
I am a proud alum of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. However, the road to the start of my career was not easy. I was rejected from job positions left and right. Just when self-doubt started to creep back into my life, I kept the faith and persevered.
With patience, I was blessed with the opportunity to start my career in my hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, as a multimedia journalist at KPTM FOX42 News. After that, I was a multimedia journalist for KTUL Tulsa’s Channel 8 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, followed by a reporter position with WWMT Newschannel 3 in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Throughout my career in news, I have earned multiple Emmy Award nominations, and have received other high honors and awards from the Associated Press and Society of Professional Journalists. News inspired my enthusiasm to pursue higher education. In 2023, I graduated top of my class, earning the highest honors from Eastern Washington University where I earned my Master of Science in Organizational Leadership.
I’ve had the privilege of covering stories with some of the most important and influential leaders in the U.S., including sitting presidents, vice presidents and first ladies. However, being the voice of the local community has been a passion and one of my greatest honors. I look forward to the many adventures my career takes me.
The latest from Franque Thompson
WSDOT: 9 collisions at job sites leading up to work zone safety campaign
Road repair season has just begun, but 2024 is already trending to be a dangerous year for construction crews with WSDOT.
Latest results from Tacoma's crime reduction plan shows progress in enhancing public safety
Police officials say data-driven enforcement is making a difference in reducing crime in Tacoma.
Renton teen accidentally shot by friend, shooter was ordered to stay away: docs
Bail was set at $1 million for a 16-year-old boy suspected of killing another teen in Renton over the weekend. The teen was on electronic home monitoring for another shooting at the time of the incident.
First responders warn of cold water shock ahead of sunny weekend
Bright, sunny weather is expected this weekend, but for those planning to hit the water, first responders warn the temperatures are still cold and potentially dangerous.
WA to adopt new regulation for 'forever chemicals' in drinking water
New federal regulations will reduce exposure to “forever chemicals” in drinking water for millions of people nationwide.
UW football player played in major games despite rape investigation
University of Washington football standout Tybo Rogers will soon be arraigned on charges of rape, according to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Tacoma Public Schools to expand housing for homeless students
More than 2,500 students in Tacoma Public Schools are experiencing housing instability or homelessness, more than any other district in Washington.
Everett City Council to vote on proposed changes to bikini barista dress code
Potential changes in the bikini barista dress code will soon be put to a vote in Everett. The city council must decide on the changes as part of a lawsuit settlement after a federal court ruling found the former dress code was unconstitutional.
'SmartSigns' pilot program uses infrared technology to detect distracted driving in King County
In 2024, distracted driving has killed at least 22 people on Washington roads. The King County Target Zero Traffic Safety Coalition is using new technology to curb those numbers.
Tacoma police officer cleared in Manuel Ellis’ death hired by Thurston County Sheriff’s Office
Former Tacoma Police Officer Christopher Burbank, who was cleared of wrongdoing in the death of Manuel Ellis, has been sworn in as a patrol deputy with the Thurston County Sheriff's Office.