Nampa, Idaho, Mayor Rick Hogaboam died Wednesday after suffering a medical emergency during a regional meeting of local mayors at Eagle City Hall. He was 47. The sudden loss has prompted an outpouring of condolences from public officials and residents across Idaho.
According to local reports, Hogaboam was answering a question during the town hall event when he collapsed at approximately 6:45 p.m. Eagle Mayor Brad Pike immediately began CPR before paramedics arrived and continued lifesaving efforts. Despite the rapid response, Hogaboam was pronounced dead. Authorities have not released an official cause of death, and the incident remains under investigation.
Caldwell Mayor Eric Philips, who witnessed the emergency, later experienced chest pain and dizziness and was transported to a hospital for evaluation. He later described the incident as heartbreaking and expressed his sorrow over the unexpected loss of his colleague.
Hogaboam was sworn in as mayor on Jan. 5 after receiving 62.9% of the vote. Although his time in office lasted only a few months, he had built a long record of public service. Before becoming mayor, he served as Canyon County clerk, a member of the Nampa City Council, and briefly represented his district in the Idaho State Senate in 2021.
Following Hogaboam’s passing, City Council President David Bills assumed the duties of acting mayor while city officials begin the process of appointing an interim replacement ahead of a special election expected later this year.
A father of five and grandfather of one, Hogaboam was widely respected for his dedication to public service and community leadership. Idaho Gov. Brad Little, former Nampa Mayor Debbie Kling, local law enforcement agencies, and civic organizations praised his integrity, compassion, and commitment to the people of Nampa. City leaders have asked residents for patience and support as the community mourns the loss of a respected public servant.
