Flags at Half-Staff After the Passing of State Auditor

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Gov. Jay Nixon has issued all state facilities to lower flags to half-staffed after State Auditor Tom Schweich passes away from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. 

Governor Jay Nixon released a statement saying: 

“I join all Missourians in mourning the passing of State Auditor Tom Schweich, a brilliant, devoted and accomplished public servant who dedicated his career to making Missouri and the world a better place,” Gov. Nixon said. “From his courageous work to combat the illegal drug trade abroad in Afghanistan to his tireless efforts to protect the interests of taxpayers here in Missouri, Tom Schweich’s exceptional intellect and unwavering dedication to public service left a legacy that will endure for many years to come. The First Lady and I send our most heartfelt condolences to Tom’s wife Kathy and two children, Emilie and Thomas, Jr.”

Other state leaders sent their condolences to the Schweich family:

“Tom Schweich was a lifelong public servant for our state and country. I am deeply saddened by his sudden loss, and extend my heartfelt sympathy to his family. I ask all Missourians to keep his family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.” -Attorney General Chris Koster

“Tom was very smart, very capable, outstanding at his job, and a good friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kathy, their children, and the rest of Tom’s friends and family as they deal with this tragic loss.” -Senator Roy Blunt

“I am heartbroken to hear of Tom’s death. He was a dedicated public servant who truly cared for and fought for Missourians. My heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to his wife and children.”-Rep. Vicky Hartzler

“Tom Schweich was a devoted public servant that I feel fortunate to have gotten to know as a friend and colleague over the past few years. Whether he was serving as our State Auditor, the U.S. Coordinator for Counternarcotics and Justice Reform in Afghanistan, or working at the State Department, Tom always fought tirelessly for the people he was serving. Anyone who had a conversation with Tom knew how dedicated he was to his service. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Kathy and his children Emilie and Thomas, Jr.”-Secretary of State Jason Kander

“I am in utter shock at the news of Tom Schweich’s tragic passing. Tom will be remembered as a tenacious, energetic, effective elected official who worked tirelessly on behalf of the citizens of this state and this nation. I ask all Missourians to join me in praying for Tom’s family.” -Missouri Republican Party Chairman John Hancock 

“We would like to offer our prayers and sympathy to the family of Auditor Tom Schweich. Tom’s experience as a talented federal prosecutor, diplomat and Ambassador made him become a brilliant auditor. In his service to the state of Missouri, he led hundreds of audits, making it his mission to fight corruption and bring transparency to many offices across the state. Our heartfelt prayers go out to his family at this difficult time.” -Senate Leader Tom Dempsey, R-St. Charles; Senate Majority Floor Leader Ron Richard, R-Joplin; Senate Minority Leader Joe Keaveny, D-St. Louis 　

“I am very sad, and hurt so much for Tom Schweich’s family. He was a good man, and a dedicated public servant, who served our country in so many capacities with distinction and honor. Hug those you love.”-Sen. Claire McCaskill 

“It was with immense sadness that I learned of the tragic passing of my good friend and fellow public servant, Tom Schweich. This is a devastating loss for our state as we have now lost a leader and a man of the highest integrity, character and dedication. I ask now that all Missourians pray for the Schweich family as they cope with this tragic loss.”-House Speaker John J. Diehl, Jr.

Flags at Half-Staff After the Passing of State Auditor