Former state Rep. Brandon Hixon died Tuesday of suicide, three months after stepping down from the Legislature.

Hixon, 36, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, the Canyon County coroner’s office told the Idaho Statesman.

Hixon resigned from the House in October. He was the subject of a criminal investigation, evidently related to sexual abuse, but was not charged.

Hixon also was arrested in two separate incidents in December, and charged with driving under the influence.

As media reports began to spread on social media Tuesday, House Speaker Scott Bedke announced Hixon’s suicide during a brief and somber floor session. Several House members audibly gasped after Bedke’s announcement.

“This serves as a reminder to all of us that we should cherish and support those who are close to us when they are struggling,” said Bedke, his voice shaking.

The House’s chaplain then led lawmakers in prayer.

Hixon, a Caldwell Republican, was in the middle of his third term before his resignation. Jarom Wagoner, a Caldwell Republican and city planner, was recently appointed to serve out the rest of Hixon’s term, which ends in December.

More coverage from Betsy Russell of the Spokane Spokesman-Review.