Reports of Steven Sotloff's alleged beheading by the Islamic State on Tuesday triggered a worldwide response of shock, horror, deep sorrow, and perhaps most importantly, reminders of the brave and admirable life lived by the American journalist.
A nearly 3 minute video released by ISIS claims to show Sotloff being beheaded.
But before this video, 31-year-old Sotloff was known to his peers and friends as a courageous reporter who spent years working in conflict zones and reporting on Turkey, Syria, Bahrain, Egypt and Libya.
Colleagues, other journalists and supporters tweeted their respects and prayers for Sotloff Tuesday. Others gave reminders of how the journalist should be remembered, posting old pictures and articles that showed his tremendous talent and the pure passion he had for reporting the truth.
Prayers with the family and friends of Steven Sotloff.
— Wesley Lowery (@WesleyLowery) September 2, 2014
A look at Steven Sotloff’s life. http://t.co/2BmQv1SUz0
— Lydia Polgreen (@lpolgreen) September 2, 2014
TIME has also released a statement on Sotloff's reported death:
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by reports of Steven Sotloff’s death,” TIME editor Nancy Gibbs said. “Steven was a valued contributor to TIME and other news organizations, and he gave his life so readers would have access to information from some of the most dangerous places in the world. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.”