BRONX, NEW YORK: Pablo Guzman, the iconic New York City reporter, suffered a cardiac arrest on Sunday, November 26, that ended his life at the age of 73. Celebrated as the "son of the Bronx" by Mayor Eric Adams, he left behind a legacy of stories that documented the city over decades.
Guzman's journalistic journey was a testament to his dedication, to covering crime, politics, and the dynamic evolution of the city he held dear for over 30 years. His distinctive voice resonated across the Big Apple's airwaves, making him a familiar presence for New Yorkers.
The life and times of Pablo Guzman
Starting his career at WNEW-TV Channel 5 in 1984, Guzman's narrative prowess earned him a spot at WNBC in 1992, and later at CBS 2, where he spent approximately 16 years as a senior correspondent.
His coverage ranged from local politics to the courts, with a special place reserved for his beloved New York Yankees.
A graduate of Bronx High School of Science, Guzman's journey included a stint at the State University of New York at Old Westbury before co-founding the "Young Lords," a revolutionary party rooted in the Puerto Rican community.
Beyond the screen, Guzman's words found a home in various publications, including the Village Voice, Billboard, Rolling Stone, and the New York Daily News. His unpredictable and original approach to reporting left an indelible mark on his colleagues and the city he served.
Paying tribute to this journalistic titan, NYC Mayor Eric Adams acknowledged Guzman as a "son of the Bronx who spoke truth to power, and held leaders to account."
He added, “Our city is a better place because of the work he did and he will be truly missed. Rest in peace,” he wrote on X.
New York mourns 'journalistic titan' Pablo Guzman
Colleagues, such as CBS 2 anchor Cindy Hsu, remember him as someone who "knew everybody" and whose unpredictability made him "so original." “I never knew what was going to come out of his mouth,” CBS reports.
News Director Sarah Burke highlighted Guzman's ability to bring out "the best in people," emphasizing “people really trusted him.”
Described by CBS 2 reporter Tony Aiello as the "real deal," Guzman's reporting encapsulated 150 years of life into his 73. “His reporting pulsed with a vitality earned on the streets of El Barrio. He covered historic events, and with the Young Lords he authored a unique chapter of NYC’s own history."
"Pablo was the real deal. Rest in peace,” concluded Aiello, in his tribute to the legendary newsman. Guzman is survived by his wife Debbie, his children Angela and Daniel, and his mother Sally.
