ABC News Family Mourns Loss of Veteran Reporter After ‘Decades of Dedicated Reporting’

The ABC News community is mourning the loss of longtime correspondent Jim Avila, who has died at 69. His passing was announced on Thursday, November 13, by ABC News Live anchor Diane Macedo, who described the update as “sad news” for the network.

Macedo shared that Avila “passed away after a long illness,” though no additional details were released. She also reflected on his extensive history with ABC. She reported that his tenure stretched nearly two decades and covered some of the network’s most significant political and international stories.

A Distinguished Career Spanning Politics, Justice & Major Global Coverage

During his years with ABC, Avila served as a senior correspondent based in Los Angeles, where he covered justice, major national stories, and high-impact consumer investigations. His work was known for its clarity, urgency, and ability to break complex stories under intense deadlines.

Avila’s reporting earned him the prestigious Merriman Smith Award from the White House Correspondents Association, which praised his “tight, breathless morning reports where every word was news” and his ability to “tell the whole story on merciless deadlines.”

He also contributed to “20/20,” bringing depth and nuance to major investigative pieces and long-form storytelling.

Colleagues Remember Avila’s Commitment & Courage Amid Health Challenges

After leaving ABC News, Avila continued his career at the ABC affiliate in San Diego as a senior investigative reporter, as per Newsweek. He covered a wide range of stories with what Macedo described as “depth and fairness.”

She also noted that Avila faced significant health battles in recent years and handled them “with courage,” including undergoing a kidney transplant donated by his brother.

ABC News president Almin Karamehmedovic honored Avila in a statement published by People, saying, “We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, including his three children, Jamie, Jenny, and Evan, and we thank him for his many contributions and unwavering commitment to seeking out the truth.”

A Legacy Built on Truth, Tenacity & Storytelling

Avila’s colleagues remember him not only as a seasoned journalist but as a mentor and friend who never wavered in his commitment to accuracy and fairness. They recall a reporter who stayed calm under pressure, chased the truth with relentless focus, and cared deeply about telling stories that made a difference.

He leaves behind a legacy of thoughtful, high-impact journalism across broadcast news and major investigative work. Colleagues and viewers alike continue to honor the integrity and dedication he brought to every assignment.

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