Pablo Guzman, the Emmy Award-winning reporter and a well-recognized figure in New York journalism, passed away at 73 on Sunday, November 26, 2023.
The journalism community mourns the loss of Guzman, known for his significant contributions to media and his vibrant personality. A native of the South Bronx, New York, Guzman’s early life was marked by activism and a drive for societal change, which later influenced his journalism career.
He graduated from the State University of New York at Old Westbury, where he became actively involved with the Young Lords, a group advocating for the rights of Puerto Ricans and Latinos. His talent in communication and public speaking was showcased during his tenure as a spokesperson for the Young Lords and his role in producing and hosting their radio show on WBAI.
Guzman began his career in journalism at WNEW-TV Channel 5 in 1984, moving on to WNBC in 1992, and later joining CBS New York in 1995. As a senior correspondent at CBS2, his reporting covered crime, local politics, courts, and sports. He was highly regarded for his unique storytelling skills and deep connection with community-centric stories. An Emmy Award for his WNBC-TV reporting on a New York City Police Department officer’s murder exemplified his journalistic prowess.
Beyond television, Guzman was an accomplished writer, contributing to various publications and interviewing celebrities such as Sting and Carlos Santana. His versatility as a journalist was evident in his ability to navigate different media formats with ease.
His sudden death due to a heart attack in Westchester County, New York, came as a shock to many. His colleague Tony Aiello remembered him as a person who lived an extraordinarily full life, with a reporting style that captured the essence of New York City.
Guzman leaves behind his wife, Debbie, his children, Angela and Daniel, and his mother, Sally. His legacy in the field of journalism and his dedication to impactful storytelling will be long remembered.
