A late-night dispute ended in tragedy when a young man killed his abusive father. Tommy Livingston’s sensitive reporting of the ensuing murder trial captured its emotion and complexity – and ultimately led him to leave journalism for good.

Content warning: Discusses suicide, domestic violence, abuse and violent themes.

Watch the video version of the episode here.

While reporting on the trial of a man accused of murdering his violent father, reporter Tommy Livingston became consumed by the case and the heartbroken family’s story, turning up to court even on his days off.

Through discerning coverage of a complex death – one that both shattered a family and freed it from generations of abuse – Tommy earned their respect, but also came to the realisation journalism was no longer for him.

In this kōrero with broadcaster and media chaplain Rev Frank Ritchie, Tommy talks about the toll reporting took on his mental health, what he’s learned about trauma, and his new career as a counsellor.

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Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details