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ABC star, Jim Vargas has sadly died, aged 78. The popular presenter, who was known for his reporting on politics and public affairs, boasted a four-decade career in journalism and spent 20 years with ABC7.

Vargas, from California, died on January 14. His cause of death has not yet been revealed.

The beloved broadcaster won an Emmy award in 1974 alongside Steve David and Bob Marshall for covering the kidnapping of American actress, Patty Hearst. The respected journalist, who retired in 2011, also won a prestigious Peabody Award with his team for reporting on the 1989 Lorna Prieta earthquake in California. Besides his time at ABC, he also worked at KRON and KTVU.

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Vargas' family said he pursued a career in broadcasting after covering the political action and riots of the late 1960s and early '70s in America.

Following the news of his death, the star's broadcasting colleagues have paid tribute.

Paul Jeschke, a former KGO-TV reporter, said: "Jim was the ultimate all-round reporter. He could, and did, cover everything with professionalism and style.

"We worked together from 1970 onward. He was always a reliable reporter, colleague and friend. He will be missed.'"

Meanwhile, Carol Ivy and Ed Leslie, also former KGO-TV reporters, described Vargas as their best friend.

"We had been in touch with him until the end and will miss him greatly," they added.

Also paying tribute, was assignment editor, Shelley Kilburn, who praised Vargas for treating her "with respect and dignity".

She posted on social media: "He trusted me with assignments, news gathering, and directions, to make sure I didn't get him and the crew lost in the field.

"I could feel that trust. He was the absolute professional news man and incredibly helpful in putting together all the needed elements for a story.

"But he also knew how to have a good time and let his hair down... as did the rest of us back in those days. My time with him was in the mid to late 80's. That was some BIG hair to let down!"