Mississippi Politician Dead in Apparent Suicide

Police in Mississippi are probing the death of a state lawmaker found dead at the home of a former state legislator yesterday. Rep. Jessica Upshaw, 53, was found at the home of Clint Rotenberry, dead from what police say appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the Jackson Clarion-Ledger reports. Upshaw, a Republican, had served in the state legislature since 2004 and had a daughter and a young grandson.

Officials say the investigation is still in its early stages. Upshaw is the fifth Mississippi lawmaker to die in the last five months. The others, two representatives and two senators, died of natural causes. "Once again this session, the House has been touched by tragedy," House Speaker Philip Gunn said in a statement. Upshaw "was an outstanding legislator and friend. She was one of the brightest and most competent members of the House. Our hearts break for her family, and our prayers go out to them during this tragic time."