The spouse of Rep. Mary Peltola, D-Alaska, tragically lost his life in a plane incident in Alaska on Wednesday morning, as reported by her congressional office in an official statement.

“We are devastated to inform you that Mary’s husband, Eugene Peltola Jr., known affectionately as ‘Buzzy’ to all who knew and cherished him, passed away early this morning due to a plane incident in Alaska,” stated Anton McParland, Peltola’s chief of staff, in the release.

The statement did not provide specific details regarding the location or circumstances of the accident.

“He was one of those people that was obnoxiously good at everything. He had a delightful sense of humor that lightened the darkest moments. He was definitely the cook in the family,” McParland said. “He was completely devoted to his parents, kids, siblings, extended family and friends — and he simply adored Mary. We are heartbroken for the family’s loss.”

In light of this tragic loss, the congresswoman is returning to Alaska to be with her family, as McParland conveyed, and she has respectfully requested privacy during this difficult time, NBC News reported.

House lawmakers have recently reconvened in Washington following an extended summer recess.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., also expressed his deep sorrow in response to this heartbreaking news.

Written by staff