Russell joined the News 8 Austin team in April 2007 after three years of reporting at KCSG in St. George, Utah.

While in Utah's Dixie, he covered everything from wildfires and floods to the capture of the FBI's 10th most wanted fugitive - polygamous prophet Warren Jeffs.

Before KCSG, Russell studied broadcasting and criminal justice at Southern Utah University. As a student he received several awards from the Society of Professional Journalists, the Utah Broadcasters Association and the Broadcast Education Association.

Russell's passion for journalism started in high school when he started reporting for his high school's weekly news broadcast as a way to cover the Utah Jazz. That's when the journalism bug bit and he's been a self-confessed news junkie ever since.

In the span of one month Russell got married, relocated to Central Texas, and started his new job as News 8's Hays and Caldwell County Bureau Chief. He and his wife Charmaine are excited to start their life together in San Marcos.

While not working, Russell enjoys watching documentary films, playing Scrabble with his wife, and going to concerts.