Newport News Del. Mike Mullin announces death of 3-month-old son
Legislator shares news one day after saying he won’t seek reelection
Del. Mike Mullin and his wife, Rebecca, shared Thursday that their son had died.
“It is with great sadness that I share the passing of our baby, Peter,” Mullin said in a statement. “Rebecca and I appreciate the love and support that so many people are sending to us at this time.”
Mullin, D-Newport News, asked for privacy as his family grieves. The 3-monthold baby, Peter Gehron Mullin, was the delegate’s fourth child. He has three older sons.
The child’s death is under investigation but no foul play is suspected, said York County Sheriff Ron Montgomery.
“We are investigating but right now there is no reason to believe that there is any crime involved here,” he said. “There was no sign of any physical injury.”
York County Department of Fire and Life Safety responded to an emergency call at 3:20 p.m. Wednesday from a babysitter’s residence in York County, Montgomery said. Peter was transported to Riverside Doctor’s Hospital in Williamsburg. No other information was available.
On Wednesday morning, Mullin told the Daily Press he would not seek reelection because he wanted to spend more time with his family. He has served in the House of Delegates since 2016.
“Time goes by very quickly and I want to be there for all the soccer games and birthday parties,” he said.
On Nov. 1, Mullin announced Peter’s birth on social media.
“Rebecca and I are so happy and blessed to announce that Peter Gehron Mullin was born on October 31st,” he wrote. “He was 7 lb 10 ounces. Everyone is happy, healthy, and we are ever so excited to welcome him into the world.”
As news of his son’s death spread Thursday, many quickly flooded Mullin’s Twitter page with support.
“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Mike and Rebecca’s son, Peter,” wrote Susan Swecker, chair of the Virginia Democratic Party. “Delegate, the love and prayers of the entire DPVA team are with you and your family.”
Sen. Monty Mason, D-Williamsburg, said his family was heartbroken.
“My family and I are filled with grief, love, and prayers for Mike and his family,” he said. “On a day when we celebrated his service to our region and state the unthinkable loss of his son breaks our heart. We all hold our loved ones close as we think of the Mullin family.”
Those who want to share messages to the Mullin family can sign a virtual Ellacard.
To contribute to a collection for DoorDash gift cards, email Del. Alfonso Lopez at info@alfonsolopez.org