Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Max Baer died overnight.
The 74-year-old Pittsburgh native was elected to the court in 2003 and in 2021 was sworn in as chief justice he was set to retire at the end of the year.
A cause of death has not been provided.
The next governor, Josh Shapiro or Doug Mastriano will likely fill Baer's seat.
Senator Jay Costa released a statement: “I am saddened and heartbroken to learn of the passing of the Honorable Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Max Baer, a respected leader and a true public servant. It has been a joy to call him a friend for the past 30 years as he has served Allegheny County and the entire commonwealth of Pennsylvania. A fellow Duquesne Law School graduate and lifelong yinzer, Justice Baer leaves an accomplished legacy of moral clarity, justice, and care for our democracy. I will miss him greatly and am holding his family in my prayers today.”
Republican Speaker of the House Bryan Cutler said in part: "The chief justice was an honorable man doing a difficult job. He was respectful, honest and carried himself with dignity and integrity. Today, we join with many others in mourning the loss of Chief Justice Bear and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those whose lives he touched.”
Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald said in part: “Max’s heart and passion for those who were in need, particularly families and children, was well known and evident in much of his work. His efforts to raise money for kids, through the music fund that raised money through an annual concert and the annual comedy night, a highlight of the political season, was unmatched.
“He will be sorely, sorely missed. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends, and thank them for allowing this community and state to have him as an advocate for justice for so long.”
Democratic Governor Tom Wolf has ordered all Pennsylvania state flags to fly at half-staff.
Wolf also released a statement that said in part: "I'm extremely saddened to learn that Chief Justice Baer passed away. He was a respected and esteemed jurist with decades of service to our courts and our commonwealth. I am grateful for his contributions and leadership in the Supreme Court.