How did Kevin Ward die? Maryland Mayor, 44, found dead in park with gunshot wound
HYATTSVILLE, MARYLAND: Kevin Ward, the 44-year-old mayor of Hyattsville, was discovered with a self-inflicted gunshot wound in McLean's Fort Marcy Park. He served on the Maryland city council for two terms before being elected mayor last year. He was Hyattsville's first openly homosexual mayor. According to the Washington Post, he and his husband moved to Maryland city in 2014 after adopting two sons.
"Mayor Ward was a valued and trusted leader and a fierce advocate for all the people of Hyattsville," the city said in a statement. "We are heartbroken at this loss and extend our deepest sympathy to his family." Details regarding the service and remembrances would be released as they became available, according to the statement. Last year, a Maryland judge Anthony Newell, killed himself ahead of his arrest for filming boys naked. The city had also been in the news for previously banning gay conversion therapy for minors. In May 2020, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed into law a bill banning health professionals from practicing “gay conversion therapy” on minors.
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Kevin had previously worked as a technology consultant in the fields of education and human services. After that, he went on to serve on the municipal council. He was appointed interim mayor when former Mayor Candance Hollingsworth resigned in January 2021, and then ran for mayor in May 2021. He was a strong champion for affordable housing. His campaign was built around his plans to demand that county representatives pass laws needed to ensure affordable housing in Hyattsville and across Prince George's County. He also wanted to create programs and services to support working-class families, especially for youth and seniors. On his campaign page, Kevin described himself as a "husband, father, grandfather, and proud resident of Hyattsville." He said that one of his favorite things to do was to explore Hyattsville "especially its parks."
Coworkers and others in the state expressed their condolences after learning of his demise."He will be missed for the leadership and support that he brought to Prince George's County as well as the joy that he gave us with his radiant smile," Aisha Graveboy, the State's Attorney, said.
Kevin's dedication to the community was praised by County Executive Angela D. Alsobrooks. “He was a wonderful partner in serving the needs of all our residents, and he accomplished so much for Hyattsville during his time as a Councilmember and his time as Mayor,” she said. "We will continue to uplift his family, friends and loved ones in our prayers during this difficult time."
One of Kevin's acquaintances expressed his grief over Kevin's death on Facebook, writing: "Still reeling from news of the death of Hyattsville Mayor Kevin Ward, who committed suicide on Tuesday. I haven’t known him for as long as I would have liked, but I am so much better and happier for having been his friend. He was whip smart, funny, deeply passionate about public service and its potential as a platform for social justice, and relentlessly futuristic in his outlook." It continued, "One would have thought that he had it all and was at peace, and therefore this is a bitter reminder that we never truly know what our friends and loved ones are going through behind the curtain. Remembering the man and the smile that could take over the whole room, and hurting tonight for his family and everyone who loved him."
Another acquaintance shared a lovely photo with a caption that read: "I'm so stunned and so so sorry to read of the death of Mayor Kevin Ward of Hyattsville. I had the chance to get to know him over the past year and found him to be such a good leader - genuine, engaging, and so dedicated to his family and work. My thoughts are with his family, his colleagues in municipal government, and all of his constituents today. RIP."
If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The crisis center provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to civilians and veterans. Call 1-800-273-8255.