Kevin Ward, the Mayor of Hyattsville, a city in Maryland, died on Tuesday from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, the City of Hyattsville said in a statement on Wednesday. 

“Mayor Ward was a valued and trusted leader and a fierce advocate for all the people of Hyattsville. We are heartbroken at this loss and extend our deepest sympathy to the Mayor’s family,” the statement said. 

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Ward took office in 2020 after then-mayor Candace Hollingsworth stepped down. He then won the mayoral election in May 2021. Prior to this, he served as the city council president.

The 44-year-old was a staunch advocate for affordable housing and also wanted to create programs and services to help working-class families.

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On his campaign page, Ward described himself as a “husband, father, grandfather, and proud resident of Hyattsville.” 

He loved exploring the city, “especially its parks.” 

“My favorite times at Magruder Park are the fireworks on the City’s Anniversary Weekend and the annual Hyattsville Zombie Run,” he said on the campaign page. 

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Following his death, several elected officials paid tributes on social media. 

Rep. Anthony Brown, who represents Maryland’s Fourth District, tweeted, “My heart is with Mayor Ward’s family and the people of Hyattsville after the loss of this dedicated, thoughtful and fiercely passionate public servant.”

State Del. Alonzo T. Washington (MD-22) said, “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my friend and City of Hyattsville Mayor Kevin Ward. Kevin was a wonderful friend, father, husband, and fierce advocate for the city’s residents. I want to extend my deepest condolences to his family. He will be sorely missed.”

State Del. Nicole Williams (MD-22), tweeted, “I am so sad to hear this news. Mayor Ward was more than just a municipal leader in my District, he was my friend. My heart is heavy right now. His partner and his children are in my prayers right now.”