Nampa Mayor Rick Hogaboam Dies Suddenly After Collapsing at Town Hall

The 47-year-old mayor, in his first term, suffered a medical emergency during a regional meeting, prompting an outpouring of grief across Idaho.

A Sudden End to a First Term

Nampa Mayor Rick Hogaboam, 47, died Wednesday evening after collapsing during a regional town hall meeting with neighboring city officials. The city's government confirmed his passing in a statement issued late that night, describing his death as a "medical emergency."

The tragic incident occurred around 6:45 p.m. at Eagle City Hall. Eagle Mayor Brad Pike, who was seated next to Mayor Hogaboam, immediately rendered aid, administering CPR while emergency services were summoned. Pike later reflected on the moment, telling NBC News affiliate KTVB, "The need was to take care of Rick and he got immediate support.” He added, “Good, bad or indifferent, I was the last person in his life that was touching him when he passed.” Pike also emphasized that his immediate focus was on supporting Hogaboam’s family during this profoundly difficult time, calling the loss "tragic" for all who had worked with the late mayor.

In the wake of this "unbelievable loss," the City of Nampa released a statement asking for community prayers for Hogaboam's family and loved ones. The statement also appealed for "grace while we navigate the loss of not only our Mayor, but also our friend."

Following Mayor Hogaboam's unexpected death, City Council President David Bills has assumed the role of acting mayor. An interim mayor will be appointed to fill the position until a new mayoral election, which is scheduled for November.

A Legacy of Public Service

Mayor Hogaboam was just a few months into his inaugural term as Nampa's mayor, having been sworn into office on January 5. His commitment to public service spanned many years and various capacities within Idaho. Before his election as mayor, Hogaboam served as a Canyon County clerk and a Nampa city councilman, gaining extensive experience in local governance.

His career also included a brief tenure as an Idaho state senator in 2021, where he stepped in as a substitute. According to his official city biography, Mayor Hogaboam was a devoted family man—a husband, father, and grandfather. He was described as an avid reader, a passionate lover of baseball, and a loyal fan of the Buffalo Bills. His biography articulated a clear vision for Nampa, aiming to foster a community "where families thrive in a community where citizens are proud to live, work, eat, play, and worship."

An Outpouring of Condolences

News of Mayor Hogaboam's sudden passing triggered an immediate wave of condolences and tributes from public officials and departments across the state. Idaho Governor Brad Little expressed his sorrow on X (formerly Twitter), writing, "Heartbreaking to hear of the sudden loss of Nampa Mayor Rick Hogaboam. Rick served with a real heart for public service and dedication to the community. His family, city staff, and the Nampa community are in my prayers."

Former Nampa Mayor Debbie Kling, who chose not to seek re-election last year, told KTVB that she was "extremely grieved" by the death of her successor. "He has an amazing wife and young family, who we need to keep in our prayers," Kling stated, adding, "Rick was such a smart, talented leader, who will be greatly missed."

The Caldwell Police Department also honored Mayor Hogaboam, describing him in a Facebook post as a "pillar of the community" who had dedicated his life to service. "Rick was a servant leader and beyond his professional life, Rick was an amazing father and husband," the statement read. It concluded by affirming that "Rick’s legacy will live forever and his passion for public service and non-profit work will never be forgotten."

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