Rick Hogaboam, the mayor of Nampa, died after collapsing mid-speech during a town hall meeting in nearby Eagle on Wednesday evening, according to New York Post.
The 47-year-old suffered a medical emergency around 6.45 pm while addressing a Treasure Valley Partnership gathering. Brad Pike, who was seated beside him, immediately began CPR before emergency responders arrived. Despite efforts by police, firefighters and medics, Hogaboam could not be revived.
His sudden death comes just over two months after he was sworn in as Nampa’s 31st mayor, having won the November election with a commanding majority. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Hogaboam had moved to Idaho from western New York in 2008 and went on to build a long career in public service.
He previously served as a city councilman, a substitute state senator and Canyon County clerk, and was also chief of staff to former mayor Debbie Kling.
Tributes poured in from across the state, with officials describing his passing as an “unbelievable loss.” Leaders remembered him as a dedicated public servant and a compassionate figure committed to his community’s growth and future.
Just hours before the incident, Hogaboam had attended a training session with the Nampa Fire Department, remarking on the “beautiful day.”
He is survived by his wife, five children and a grandchild. City officials are expected to appoint an interim successor ahead of the next scheduled mayoral election.
