Sophia Bruinsma

Sophia Bruinsma is a reporter for FOX5 News Las Vegas, known for her fearless reporting, investigative depth, and commitment to telling stories that matter to the community.

Before joining FOX5, Sophia’s work in Northern California earned statewide and national attention. She was the first reporter to cover the disappearance of Nikki Cheng-Saelee McCain— later classified as a murder investigation — uncovering exclusive police records detailing prior domestic abuse. Her station was the first in the country to break that information before it became a national story.

Sophia has also covered some of California’s most significant environmental and public safety stories, including the Park Fire — one of the largest wildfires in state history — and the largest dam removal project in U.S. history along the Klamath River. She also investigated illegal cannabis operations in Siskiyou County, working closely with the Sheriff’s Office to uncover ties to organized crime abroad and human trafficking used to recruit workers. Her reporting exposed how these illegal grow sites were causing severe environmental damage — including water theft, soil contamination, and inhumane conditions for laborers.

In addition to her investigative work, Sophia has built trusted relationships with state and federal leaders. She’s secured one-on-one interviews with U.S. Senator for California Adam Schiff and worked extensively with Congressman Doug LaMalfa on issues including agriculture, water rights, transgender participation in sports, and redistricting. She also had the opportunity to question Governor Gavin Newsom during his visit to Redding, covering issues important to Northern Californians.

Outside of work, you can find Sophia working out at the gym, wake surfing, or trying new foods.

A graduate of San Francisco State University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, Sophia has experience anchoring, producing, and reporting across both news and sports. Her storytelling blends empathy, integrity, and accountability — helping viewers not just follow the news but understand the people behind it.