California – November 12, 2025 – Jim Avila, a veteran broadcast journalist and longtime ABC News correspondent, passed away in California after a prolonged illness. He was 70 years old. Known for his powerful reporting on politics, law, and consumer investigations, Avila’s journalistic career spanned more than 40 years, leaving a lasting legacy in American media.
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What Happened?
Jim Avila died on November 12, 2025, surrounded by his family after facing significant health issues in recent years. He underwent a kidney transplant in 2021, donated by his brother, but continued to experience health complications.
Despite these challenges, Avila remained active in journalism, serving as a senior investigative reporter for ABC affiliate KGTV in San Diego. His dedication to the craft remained unwavering, even in the face of his declining health.
His death has deeply affected the journalism community, with colleagues and fans mourning the loss of a respected, objective, and compassionate reporter.
Who Was Jim Avila?
Born James Joseph Simon on July 26, 1955, in Los Angeles, Avila later adopted his mother’s surname to honor his Mexican heritage. He grew up in Lombard, Illinois, and graduated from Glenbard East High School.
Avila began his career in broadcasting in the 1970s, working in both radio and television across major U.S. markets, including Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. His groundbreaking work during the O.J. Simpson trial in the mid-1990s earned him national recognition and established him as a trusted voice in high-profile news coverage.
He joined ABC News in 2004, dedicating nearly two decades to reporting on politics, justice, national issues, and consumer investigations. From 2012 to 2016, he served as ABC’s White House correspondent, covering the Obama administration and breaking the historic story of the U.S. and Cuba restoring diplomatic relations — a report that earned him the prestigious Merriman Smith Award.
Career, Legacy, and Contributions
Jim Avila’s career is remembered for its excellence, integrity, and impact. Some of his notable achievements include:
- Two Emmy Awards
- Five Edward R. Murrow Awards
- Induction into the National Association of Hispanic Journalists Hall of Fame (2019)
Throughout his career, Avila broke major political and legal stories and helped shape public understanding of high-stakes national events. His work was marked by precision, balance, and a deep commitment to the truth.
Beyond his reporting, Avila was widely admired as a mentor. He was generous with his time, offering guidance and support to aspiring journalists and young reporters across newsrooms.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Tributes to Jim Avila have poured in across social media and news platforms. Journalists, public figures, and viewers have expressed deep respect for his decades-long contribution to the industry.
- “Jim was a force in journalism,” one former colleague wrote. “His dedication to the truth will never be forgotten.”
- Another tribute read, “Jim Avila’s legacy shaped how we think about fairness and objectivity in news reporting.”
Many have also highlighted his role as a pioneer for Hispanic journalists and an influential voice in American media.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
ABC News released a heartfelt statement mourning Avila’s passing, honoring his decades of service and his impact on broadcast journalism. “Jim Avila was an invaluable member of the ABC News team,” the network said. “We offer our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
Memorial or tribute plans have not yet been announced, as the family continues to grieve the loss of their beloved father, husband, and mentor.
Conclusion
Jim Avila leaves behind a profound legacy defined by courage, fairness, and unwavering dedication to the truth. His work shaped major moments in American journalism and inspired countless reporters who followed in his footsteps. Though he is gone, his impact endures through the stories he told, the journalists he mentored, and the viewers he informed.