A Northampton state representative has died.
Peter Kocot who had represented the First Hampshire District since 2002, died on Thursday at the age of 61 after battling an illness.
Kocot's death has triggered a significant outpouring of remembrances from legislators from all over the commonwealth, including Governor Charlie Baker and Lieutenant Governor
Northampton Mayor David Narkewicz said last night, "He was a man of immense conviction, compassion, and intellect who cared deeply about the people and communities he served and the everyday issues affecting their lives. He was a champion for social and economic justice who worked tirelessly and with great humility to better our city, his district, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts."
Flags across the state have been lowered to half mast in the State Rep's honor.
(pictured provided by Commonwealth of Massachusetts)