Hyattsville Mayor Kevin Ward was found dead in a city park in McLean, Virginia on Tuesday. Police say Ward, 44, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. He was 44.
Ward was elected mayor in 2021. The City issued 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.”
It is with great sadness that we report that our beloved #HyattsvilleMayor Kevin Ward passed away yesterday, January 25 from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. We are heartbroken by this loss and share our deepest sympathy for the Mayor’s family. https://t.co/nemygRxFmL pic.twitter.com/8ZH33pXsfQ
— City of Hyattsville (@HyattsvilleMD) January 26, 2022
Maryland Governor Hogan also offered his condolences to the Ward family.
The First Lady and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Hyattsville Mayor Kevin Ward.
We extend our most heartfelt condolences to the Ward family and the people of Hyattsville as they grieve this tragic loss.
— Governor Larry Hogan (@GovLarryHogan) January 26, 2022
“Ward is survived by his husband and two adopted sons,” WJLA-TV reported.
Maryland residents suggested Ward killed himself due to Gov. Hogan’s restrictive vaccine and mask mandates.
RIP to all of the young people who killed themselves because of the isolation caused by your useless mandates
— Sweet_Baby_Rayez (@BabyRayez) January 26, 2022
My heart breaks for his husband and children. Politics shouldn't be a part of this conversation unfortunately you've put so many of your constituents in this exact situation with your nonsensical mandates. At first, we were all scared but at this point it's fearmongering.
— SquareWhisper????? (@WhisperSquare) January 27, 2022
Your own policies are what has caused thousands and thousands of people to commit suicide. You’re a disgrace to both democrats and republicans
— UFC2025 (@UFC2025) January 27, 2022
If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).