The Dead Man Chronicles: Fear by Ellis E. Fowler

Derek Willows lives in fear. He’s afraid of the crime families that call on him to use his access as a reporter for their sinister plans. He’s afraid that his family will be ripped apart, that he’ll end up dead, like his father.
But fear is a luxury he can no longer afford.
When the sadistic crime lord, the Viper kidnaps his pregnant wife. Derek turns to his city’s superhero vigilante, the Dead Man for help.
But disaster strikes.
Now the hero is dying, and Derek has to assume the mantle of the Dead Man to save the ones he loves.
Aided by cutting-edge technology and an unexpected ally, Derek must uncover the mystery of the Dead Man’s past, and protect his city from a plot that would destroy his family, his future, and the Dead Man’s Legacy.