"Devastating news" refers to information that is extremely upsetting, distressing, or damaging. It can be something that causes great sadness, shock, or destruction. Full definition
Being diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor is devastating news for patients and their loved ones. (sciencedaily.com)
The film also shows what his life became after such devastating news. (nerdlocker.com)
And I love positive stories and this is one of the stories that were originally just really devastating news to a family and it turned out to have a very positive outcome. (pregnancymagazine.com)