Colorado politician Joe Anderson suddenly collapsed on Colorado hike and died shortly thereafter. (Photo: Instagram @nypost)
Sheriff’s deputies were called at about 6.40am after other hikers had already begun CPR. Joe Anderson lost consciousness and was not breathing while hiking on the lower slopes of Quandary Peak in Summit County, according to local authorities.
The cause of death has not been announced and is expected to be determined by the coroner, the Daily Mail reported, citing local authorities. The City of Englewood confirmed his death later Friday. Its organisers described him as a father, husband, friend and neighbour and said memorial details would be announced later.
The city said his work with the coalition preceded the creation of the Tri-Cities Homelessness Policy Committee, which coordinates policy across Englewood, Littleton and Sheridan. Mayor Othoniel Sierra described Anderson as someone who was “always there to lend a hand” as a friend, neighbour, pastor and elected official. “This is a tremendous loss for our city and our heart goes out to his family and friends during this time of loss,” he said.
Deputies and medical personnel continued attempts to revive him, but Anderson died at the scene. He served in pastoral roles at local churches and helped found Change the Trend, a coalition working on homelessness. A fundraiser has since been organised for Anderson’s wife, Rebecca, and their children.