Doug Guthrie, who had been a Detroit News reporter since 2004 and the paper's auto critic the last year, passed away at this home in Grosse Pointe Wednesday. He was 60.
Detroit News: A longtime courts reporter before becoming The News’ auto critic in 2012, the 60-year-old Guthrie had a love affair with autos that began during adolescence. Colleagues and industry officials said his columns married his zest for cars with a reporter’s attention to detail.
“Doug Guthrie reviewed cars and trucks for The News and our readers never enjoyed a more enthusiastic byline,” said Publisher and Editor Jon Wolman.
Prior to joining The News, Guthrie worked for the Grand Rapids Press.
He died of natural causes and is survived by his wife and three children.
Former Detroit Free Press reporter Joe Swickard posted this on his Facebook page:
Doug was a fine competitor and fellow newsman in the often abrasive world of criminal court reporting. He always worked hard for accuracy in his reporting and openness of the criminal justice system.
He was over the moon when he became a full time auto writer. I don't think I ever saw a happier go-get'em car guy.
Doug was a proud dad with a wonderful wife Kelley. He was a true gentleman of the press.
