State Sen. Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) has passed away, according to the Champaign County coroner.
Bennett was pronounced dead of natural causes at 1:15 p.m. Friday, following a brief hospital stay. He was taken to Carle Foundation Hospital around 3 a.m. Thursday for an undisclosed reason.
Bennett, a former prosecutor, had worked on the amendment to the Safe-T Act during the just-concluded veto session.
He leaves behind a wife and two children. His uncle is State Rep. Tom Bennett (R-Gibson City).
Bennett was 45.
—
The senator’s wife, Stacy, released the following statement:
“We are devastated to share that our beloved Scott has passed away. We remain in complete shock because it was all so sudden and unexpected.
“Scott will forever be known for being an extraordinary father, husband, and friend. His quick humor and wit could light up any room he entered. We will miss his stories, the way he could always make people laugh, and his genuine kindness.
“Scott lived a life full of service and constantly looked for ways to lend his time and energy to helping our community and state. He worked tirelessly to find solutions to society’s most pressing issues by finding common ground and compromise. To say he will be greatly missed is an understatement.
“We appreciate the amazing care he received at Carle Foundation Hospital and thank all of the doctors, nurses, and staff who provided Scott with excellent care and support for his family. We are also grateful for the outpouring of love and support. Scott’s impact on our community is very evident.
“At this time, we ask that our privacy is respected as we navigate this difficult time.”
—
Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) released the following statement:
“I was devastated today to learn of the death of Senator Scott Bennett.
“My heartfelt sympathy and prayers are with his wife Stacy and their children during this unimaginably difficult time.
“I ask the media and others to respect their privacy.”
—
Gov. JB Pritzker released the following statement:
“Today, the state of Illinois mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant and devoted father. Senator Scott Bennett was a good man who always operated with the best interest of his constituents in mind. Throughout his time in Springfield, he fiercely advocated for the institutions that shaped his life, from his upbringing on a Gibson City farm, all the way to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The entire state is a better place thanks to his service. MK and I send our thoughts to his loving wife Stacy and their two beautiful children during this difficult period.”