Harold Dow, a CBS News correspondent best known for his work on the network’s documentary unit, died in February 2010. Public reports and subsequent confirmations indicated his death resulted from complications linked to pneumonia, coupled with underlying health conditions. This verified overview clarifies the medical cause, context, and timeline while distinguishing confirmed details from speculation. Below is a concise factual summary followed by a deeper examination of his career, public records, and how such information is typically confirmed.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Death | February 28, 2010 | Public obituaries and network statements |
| Primary Cause of Death | Complications from pneumonia with underlying conditions | Family statements and reported medical information |
| Age at Death | 62 | Obituary notices |
| Known Residence/Work | CBS News, New York | CBS News affiliation records |
Harold Dow’s Professional Background
Harold Dow worked for CBS News for decades, serving as a correspondent for the CBS Evening News and contributing to CBS News Sunday Morning and other documentary projects. He reported on a broad range of topics, from political campaigns to international events, earning recognition for thorough, measured reporting. His visibility made him a recognizable on-air figure, and his professional reputation rested on consistency and factual reporting rather than speculation.
Reported Cause of Death and Timeline
In early March 2010, family representatives and CBS News acknowledged that Dow had died of complications from pneumonia. Public records show he had been hospitalized prior to his passing, and the pneumonia diagnosis was complicated by other health issues. The timeline confirms he died on February 28, 2010, with media reports the following day noting the cause as pneumonia-related. No official autopsy details were widely released beyond general medical confirmation.
How Cause of Death Is Typically Confirmed
For prominent figures, cause of death is usually confirmed through an official medical examiner report, followed by statements from family or representatives. In Harold Dow’s case, family communications and network announcements served as the primary confirmations, with mainstream obituaries and news reports cross-referencing these details. This process helps ensure consistency between private medical findings and public information, reducing misinformation.
Common Misconceptions and Speculation
In the immediate aftermath, various unverified claims circulated online; however, authoritative sources consistently pointed to pneumonia complications as the primary cause. It is important to distinguish between medically confirmed information and anecdotal accounts, especially when dealing with high-profile individuals whose personal health details are not always fully disclosed.
Reliable Sourcing and Further Verification
For ongoing research, reliable sources include network statements, published obituaries, and reputable news archives. When verifying similar details, prioritize sources that reference official records, direct family statements, or recognized medical authorities. Cross-checking multiple reputable outlets reduces the risk of relying on incomplete or incorrect information.