David Diaz, a veteran journalist known for his extensive news coverage in New York City, New York, passed away last week at the age of 82, CBS News announced on Monday, March 17.
Diaz’s career spanned approximately 30 years at NBC 4 and CBS 2, covering significant events such as the 9/11 attacks and presidential elections. He was notable for being the first Hispanic anchor at a major television station in New York, breaking new ground in an industry lacking diversity.
Born in Puerto Rico in 1942, Diaz relocated to Washington Heights in Upper Manhattan as a child. He pursued his education at Fordham Prep, City College of New York, and earned a master’s degree from Columbia University, which set the stage for his successful career.
Before television, Diaz was engaged in community activism and newspaper reporting, experiences that enriched his broadcasting career. His television journey began at NBC 4, where he worked for 15 years, before moving to CBS 2, where he stayed for over 12 years until 2015.
Diaz was awarded five Emmy Awards, underscoring his reporting skills and excellence in journalism. His peers remembered him for his professionalism and deep knowledge of New York City.
During the September 11, 2001 attacks, Diaz reported from Ground Zero, covering the aftermath of the events. In 2008, he disclosed to the Daily News that he experienced health issues, including sinus problems and headaches, from his on-site coverage at the World Trade Center.
Colleagues noted Diaz’s capacity to manage complicated stories efficiently, even in challenging situations.
“I first met David Diaz when I was a print reporter and we went on a complicated trip to South America and Central America,” CBS political reporter Marcia Kramer shared in the station’s tribute. “He was able to take this complex story with multiple, multiple locations and cut in the field and feed a piece back and be on the evening news every single night. He was able to do it and make it look so incredibly effortless.”
After his broadcasting career, Diaz focused on educating future journalists as a lecturer at the City University of New York (CUNY), where he taught mass media, politics, and journalism courses.
In 2017, CUNY awarded him an honorary degree in recognition of his contributions to journalism and pioneering field efforts.
His family reported to his former station that he developed a form of dementia in his later years, which impaired his communication abilities. Despite these difficulties, former coworkers noted his enduring spirit.
Diaz was known for his willingness to mentor colleagues, particularly those starting their careers. He showed generosity by sharing his expertise and assisting others in honing their skills.
He is survived by his wife, Andrea, two daughters, Elena and Nina, and a son-in-law, Jonathan.
