American journalism has lost one of its most respected voices. Jim Avila, veteran correspondent for ABC News and NBC News, known for his extensive career covering politics, justice, and immigration, has passed away at the age of 69. The news was confirmed by ABC News, the network where he worked for more than a decade. Here's what we know about his passing.
According to ABC News Live anchor Diane Macedo, Avila died after a long illness. In recent years, he had faced health complications following a kidney transplant, a procedure in which his brother was the donor. Although no further details about his death were released, colleagues and friends expressed their sorrow and deep admiration for the journalist.
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ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic issued a statement highlighting Avila's remarkable career and dedication, while also extending condolences to his family, including his three children -- Jamie, Jenny, and Evan.
There are no public records regarding Jim Avila's net worth. However, it is estimated that the average salary for an ABC News correspondent ranges between $48,000 and $85,000 per year, depending on experience, position, and location. Given Avila's long career and numerous accolades, it is likely that he held a prominent position within the network.
Jim Avila left a lasting mark on American journalism through a career defined by courage, accuracy, and social commitment. For more than four decades, he served as both a witness and a storyteller to some of the most significant events in modern history, both in the United States and abroad.
Avila was also a leading voice in legal journalism. As ABC's Chief Law and Justice Correspondent, he closely followed some of the nation's most high-profile trials, including those of O.J. Simpson, Michael Jackson, and Jerry Sandusky. His balanced, insightful reporting made him a trusted source for millions of viewers. In addition, he was deeply committed to covering immigration issues, often traveling to the southern border to document the human stories behind the headlines.
Before joining ABC, Avila was a key correspondent for NBC News, where he reported on many of the defining moments of the 21st century: the September 11 attacks, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and several mass shootings across the United States. His on-the-ground reporting from Baghdad -- even in the midst of violent attacks -- showcased his fearless dedication to telling the truth, no matter the risk.
Throughout his distinguished career, Avila received numerous honors, including multiple Emmy and Edward R. Murrow Awards, and was named Reporter of the Year by the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. His legacy endures as that of a journalist who elevated the standards of television reporting and inspired generations of correspondents to pursue their craft with integrity, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to the truth.