The husband of Alaska Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola died Wednesday in a plane crash. The news of the death of Eugene Peltola Junior, "Buzzy," was announced by the congresswoman's chief of staff Anton McParland, in a statement shared on Representative Mary Peltola's social media accounts:
We are devastated to share that Mary's husband, Eugene Peltola Jr. — 'Buzzy' to all of us who knew and loved him — passed away earlier this morning following a plane accident in Alaska. 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. And family was most important to him. 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.
— Rep. Mary Peltola (@Rep_Peltola) September 13, 2023
According to Anton McParland, Sen. Peltola is on her way home to be with her family in these difficult times. In addition, he requested that "their privacy be respected during this time," while ensuring that the senator's team will continue its work while she grieves:
Mary is returning home to be with their family, and we ask that their privacy be respected during this time. Our team will continue to meet with constituents and carry on the work of the office while Mary and her family grieve.
The House of Representatives stands in solidarity with Mary Peltola
It didn't take long for people to reach out and express their condolences. The first was House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a Democrat. He responded to the death of Eugene Peltola in statements collected by the Washington Examiner:
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Gene 'Buzzy' Peltola, the beloved husband of Rep. Mary Peltola and the devoted father and step-father of Conrad, Matthew, Job, Nora, Gene, Trevor and Kaeli. The entire House Democratic Caucus is mourning the loss of Buzzy and we are lifting Mary and the Peltola family up in prayer. We will be there for her in any way she needs during this unimaginable time of tragedy.
Republicans also expressed their condolences to Rep. Mary Peltola. One of them was Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski. She responded to the statement shared by Peltola's team and said that "anyone who met Buzzy felt his warmth, generosity and charm":
I am shocked, saddened and truly beyond words to express my grief at the loss of Gene Peltola Jr. Anyone who met Buzzy felt his warmth, generosity and charm. It was easy to see why so many Alaskans called him a friend, and how he was so loved by his family. https://t.co/tn15PHqRwW
— Sen. Lisa Murkowski (@lisamurkowski) September 13, 2023
