Pennsylvania Rep. Matt Gergely dies after suffering medical emergency
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Pennsylvania state Rep. Matt Gergely has died after suffering a medical emergency. The Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus announced Rep. Gergely's death Sunday evening, weeks after suffering a medical emergency over the holiday weekend.
"Our hearts are broken as we mourn the untimely loss of our friend and colleague," the House Democratic leadership said in a statement. "Matt Gergely devoted his life to fighting for children and working families of Allegheny County – especially his beloved hometown of McKeesport. Matt will be desperately missed in Harrisburg and we know his passing is a tremendous loss to his communities in Western Pennsylvania. Please join us in keeping his wife and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this tragic time."
McKeesport Mayor Michael Cherepko's office released a statement Tuesday saying that Rep. Gergely's death "presents an immeasurable loss in the McKeesport community."
"Matt was an ever-present community servant and a dedicated husband, father, and friend," the Mayor's Office said. "He worked tirelessly for the people of our hometown and the entire Mon Valley - always giving back through his career in public service, through countless hours of volunteerism, and through celebrating his love of community with his family."
Gergely was "tireless champion"
Pennsylvania Lt. Governor Austin Davis said he witnessed Rep. Gergely's service first hand as a McKeesport school official, city administrator, and finally as a state Representative.
"He was a tireless champion for working families in the Mon Valley," Davis said. "My heart goes out to his wife, Holly, his family, friends and community. The Second Lady and I are keeping them in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
The Pennsylvania House Republican leadership team also released a statement saying they join in grieving the loss of Rep. Gergely.
"While Matt was only in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives a short time, his commitment to his family and community were deeply felt among his peers and he quickly earned friends and respect on both sides of the aisle," the leadership team said. "His voice and presence will be missed both in Harrisburg and southeast Allegheny County."
Gergely is remembered by many as a tireless champion, friend and public service.
"He was always there, I could call him anytime, you know, talk to him," said Munhall Mayor Rob Falce. "He'd return the call, he was a very good public servant."
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued a statement on X about Gergely's death, saying, "Lori and I are heartbroken for Rep. Matt Gergely's wife Holly, their two young sons, his colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the community he loved and proudly served in his hometown of McKeesport. Matt's was a life cut way too short. Now, in this moment of mourning, let us come together to honor his legacy, carry on the work that mattered most to him, and look out for his family. In honor of his legacy of service, I've ordered flags on Commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds to be lowered to half-staff. May the memory of Matt Gergely forever be a blessing."
Gergely's path to the State Capitol
Rep. Gergely was elected in 2023 to represent Pennsylvania's 35th district, which covers parts of the Mon Valley.
Prior to being elected to the Pennsylvania House, Rep. Gergely held numerous roles within the city of McKeesport's government offices and was the business manager for the McKeesport Area School District.
The Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus says Rep. Gergely's offices in McKeesport, Munhall, and Clairton will remain open and staffed.
A special election to fill the seat held by Rep. Gergely in the Pennsylvania House is expected to be called a date yet to be announced. Until the special election takes place, the Pennsylvania House will sit at a 101-101 partisan divide.
