David Diaz, a prominent journalist known for his extensive reporting in New York City, has passed away at 82, CBS News announced on Monday, March 17, 2025. Diaz was esteemed as a “reporter’s reporter” throughout his career.
Diaz’s career spanned approximately 30 years. While working at NBC 4 and CBS 2, he covered significant events such as 9/11 and presidential elections. He was notable for being the first Hispanic anchor at a major New York television station, breaking ground in a field that was not diverse at the time.
Born in Puerto Rico in 1942, Diaz relocated to Washington Heights in Upper Manhattan as a child. He pursued education at Fordham Prep and City College of New York and earned a master’s degree from Columbia University, which paved the way for his successful career in journalism.
Before his television career, Diaz served as a community activist and newspaper reporter, bringing substantial experience to his role in broadcasting. He began his television career at NBC 4, where he worked for 15 years, before transitioning to CBS 2, where he spent over 12 years until his departure in 2015.
Diaz was recognized with five Emmy Awards, underscoring his exceptional skills and contributions to journalism. Colleagues have praised him for his professionalism and in-depth knowledge of New York City.
During the September 11, 2001 attacks, Diaz reported from Ground Zero, covering the aftermath of a crucial event in the city’s history. In 2008, he mentioned to the Daily News that his coverage at the World Trade Center led to health issues, including sinus problems and headaches.
Former colleagues have pointed out Diaz’s ability to manage complex stories effectively, even in challenging conditions.
“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 said 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 ending 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, recognizing his significant impact on journalism and his pioneering role in the industry.
Diaz’s family shared with his former employer that he faced a form of dementia in his later years, which eventually impaired his communication abilities, though his determination remained evident to colleagues.
Throughout his career, Diaz was noted for his generosity toward his colleagues, especially those new to the field. He served as a mentor and shared his expertise with others.
Diaz is survived by his wife, Andrea, two daughters, Elena and Nina, and a son-in-law, Jonathan.
