Former ABC News senior correspondent Jim Avila has passed away at the age of 69, as announced by ABC News Live anchor Diane Macedo on November 13. Avila died following a long illness, although further details surrounding his passing were not disclosed.
Macedo highlighted Avila’s remarkable career, which spanned nearly two decades at ABC News, where he served as an L.A.-based correspondent specializing in politics, law, justice, and consumer investigations. Notably, Avila’s significant contributions included reporting from the White House, where he made headlines by breaking the story of the reopening of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba.
In recognition of his exceptional work, Avila received the White House Correspondents Association’s prestigious Merriman Award in 2015. This honor was for his coverage of U.S. contractor Alan Gross’s release from Cuba after a five-year detainment. The WHCA praised Avila for his extraordinary ability to deliver critical news under tight deadlines, stating that his reporting exemplified the excellence the Merriman Smith Award seeks to acknowledge.
Throughout his tenure at ABC News, Avila was also a correspondent for the program 20/20. Following his departure from ABC News, he continued his investigative journalism career at the ABC affiliate in San Diego, covering a wide array of stories with depth and accuracy.
Macedo spoke highly of Avila’s character, commending him for facing health challenges with remarkable courage, including receiving a kidney transplant from his brother. In heartfelt remarks, Almin Karamehmedovic, president of ABC News, extended condolences to Avila’s family, which includes his three children: Jamie, Jenny, and Evan. He expressed gratitude for Avila’s unwavering commitment to journalism and the truth throughout his career.
Jim Avila leaves behind a legacy of impactful journalism and dedication to seeking justice. His contributions to the field will not be forgotten, as he is remembered fondly by colleagues and viewers alike.