Kentucky state Rep. Lamin Swann died on Sunday, May 14, according to his mother, Pamela Dixon. He was 45.

Dixon said that Swann suffered from a “significant medical emergency” and was hospitalized on Tuesday, May 9 in a statement shared by the Kentucky House Democrats on Twitter.

The type of medical emergency was not disclosed.

“There are no words to fully describe the grief and impossible loss that others and I feel right now after saying good-bye earlier today to my beloved son, Lamin,” Dixon said in statement shared after Swann’s death.

Swann grew up in Lexington and was a graduate of the University of Kentucky’s College of Social Work.

During his time at UK, Swann was a staff writer and section editor at the Kernel. Additionally, he was a member of the pre-law chapter of Phi Alpha Delta fraternity and worked with the Violence Intervention & Prevention (VIP) Center.

Swann was elected last year as a representative for the 93rd House District and assumed office on January 1, 2023, overseeing areas of Fayette County.  

According to Swann’s website, he advocated for advances in education, LGBTQ+ rights and affordable health care for all.

Dixon reflected on the effect that Swann had on his community.

“What comforts us is knowing the positive and lasting impact he had on so many,” Dixon said. “Those include his loved ones and friends, those he advocated for throughout his life and, now, those whose own lives will forever be strengthened by his decision to be an organ donor.”

Gov. Andy Beshear also noted Swann’s impact on Kentucky, remembering the representative with a “heavy heart” in a tweet shared Sunday.

“Lamin was always smiling, leading with kindness while working to build a better Kentucky for all,” Beshear said.