AUSTIN — West Side residents last week helped lay to rest a man who had an outsized voice in their community, and now they’re working to ensure his Austin-based newspaper can continue operations.

A memorial service was held Friday for Brad Cummings, founder and longtime editor of the the Austin Voice newspaper. Cummings, 76, was one of four people killed in a June apartment fire that police say was intentionally set. Weeks later, police arrested a 23-year-old East Garfield Park man accused of setting the blaze.

Cummings’ death marked the end of a 40-year career dedicated to reporting on the West Side. As friends, family and local leaders continue to remember his passion for community advocacy, the newspaper’s future remains uncertain amid outstanding debts and operational challenges.

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