New York residents may have recently heard about the death of a well-known news correspondent. Richard Threlkeld, who worked for more than 25 years at CBS News as a reporter, anchor and bureau chief, died on a Friday in January in a car accident on Long Island. He was 74.

According to police, Threlkeld's car collided with a propane tanker during the morning hours. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the tanker was not injured. Police say they are still investigating the cause of the crash. No further information as to the cause of the accident was released.

Threlkeld was known for his coverage of the Persian Gulf War, the Vietnam War, and the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, as well as the Patty Hearst kidnapping and the execution of Gary Gilmore. After working at CBS, he also worked as a news analyst at ABC News. He retired from his career in 1998.

The journalist is survived by his wife of 28 years, who was also a correspondent, two children and two grandchildren. As the investigation into the cause of the accident continues, the man's family may consider filing a wrongful death lawsuit if negligence is found to be a factor on the part of the tanker driver. When a sudden death occurs, family members are often faced with unexpected medical bills and burial costs. The family may be able to obtain compensation for lost wages, funeral expenses, as well as medical expenses.

Source: The Wall Street Journal, "Newsman Richard Threlkeld dies in car accident," Jan. 13, 2012