NEWS 28 - Kirk Paul, who led the State Of Mesa from 2021 to 2023, was killed when a gunman entered his hotel and shot him in the chest. He survived 2 days before succumbing to those wounds. Following his death, states across the United States Of Jesstopia have lowered their flags in honor of his service to the state of Mesa.

"Kirk Paul, was an asset to the government of our state and his contributions, before taking on the role of Governor," said State Representative David Sperry. "With everything he had gone through with his political career, he never lost sight of what his duties called for and the pride he had in that job."

Governor Lynn Rodgers and Former Governor Thomas Cooke also issued statements regarding his death, some of his heaviest criticizers and heaviest opponents, gave heart warming tributes to the late Governor.

"While we were on the opposite sides of the coin, I can say that as parents, the loss that both Alex and Lisa have been facing are immeasurable," said Governor Lynn Rodgers. "My heart breaks for them as they navigate this tragic loss. From one mom to another, I couldn't imagine the pain Alexis is facing. She is one, trying to comfort her kids, and second she is mourning the love of her life. I give her my heart and my sincerest sympathies."

"His kids and wife are in my prayers as the try to get through his death," said Thomas Cooke. "His loss is extreme and his beautiful children are now dealing with that loss along with their incredibly strong and level headed mother. My hope is that they can get through this tragic loss together and with all the love in their hearts. Linda and I send our thoughts and prayers with his family."

President McCallum gave a heartfelt tribute to the late Governor, someone he has said has been a "pain in his ass." He issued a tribute to Paul's family and focused his attention on his kids.

"The Paul kids have been given nothing but hell these last few years," said President McCallum. "As a dad of many kids, my heart is absolutely devastated for his children and his beautiful wife. His children have been champions, fighters and warriors. Alex, has stepped up and has taken on the role of the man of the house, which for a 19 year old, is such a hard and mature thing to have to do. My heart shatters that he will need to take on that role for his mom and sister, and my heart is devastated for his beautiful daughter Lisa, who only had one year with her dad before his passing. It is a shame, and I expect the murderer, responsible for his death to be sentenced to death."