Penna. State Lawmaker From Philadelphia Dies Suddenly

HARRSIBURG, Pa. (CBS) -- A veteran state lawmaker from Philadelphia died unexpectedly overnight. State Rep. Robert Donatucci, a Democrat, was 58 years old.

Donatucci represented the 185th state House District, which includes parts of Philadelphia and Delaware counties. He was first elected to the House in 1980.

Brett Marcy, a spokesman for House majority leader Todd Euchus, says Pennsylvania has lost "a real leader."

"He has served as chairman of the House Liquor Control Committee for some time now, and in that position he's been a real steady force for the prevention of underage drinking," Marcy said.

Marcy adds that Donatucci also struck a reasonable balance between protecting the public while improving the customer experience when it came to alcohol sales.

He was a graduate of Bishop Neumann High School and Temple University.  He is survived by his wife, Maria, and two children.

In a written statement, House speaker Keith McCall praised Donatucci as a "quiet, resolute force in the legislature."

Reported by KYW Newsradio Harrisburg Bureau Chief Tony Romeo.