Former Idaho state lawmaker kills himself amid sexual abuse allegations

A former Idaho state lawmaker who was being investigated for possible sexual abuse shot and killed himself, according to The Associated Press.

Brandon Hixon (R) was found in his home dead of a self-inflicted gunshot, according to Canyon County, Idaho Coroner Vicki DeGeus-Morris.

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Hixon, who was first elected to the state legislature in 2012, became the subject of a criminal investigation in October. He resigned from his position two days later after reports that he was under investigation over “sexual abuse allegations,” according to the Idaho Statesman.

{mosads}“I hope that my efforts have helped improve the lives of my constituents in District 10, as well as all Idahoans,” Hixon wrote in his resignation letter. “I will never forget all of my colleagues that I very much enjoyed working side by side with to make Idaho a better place for all.”

Hixon was also the subject of a separate investigation in 2014, according to the Statesman, when he was accused of inappropriate touching. According to a partial report obtained by the Statesman, Hixon reportedly said the allegation “could ruin his political career.”

Idaho House Speaker Scott Bedke (R) announced Hixon’s death on the House floor Tuesday, according to the AP.

“We should support those who are close to us when they are struggling,” Bedke told lawmakers. “Please remember Brandon’s family in your prayers.”