Florida Democratic state Rep. Joe Casello made headlines earlier this month when the 73-year-old legislator suffered a heart attack.

Casello's condition subsequently took a turn for the worse, ultimately leading to his death late last week. 

Legislator was "surrounded by his loving family"

USA Today noted that an official statement concerning Casello's passing was posted to social media by the Florida House Democrats.

"We are so sorry to say that Representative Joe Casello has passed away surrounded by his loving family and girlfriend, following a heart attack," it read.

We are so sorry to say that Representative Joe Casello has passed away surrounded by his loving family and girlfriend, following a heart attack. He was 73.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their love and support during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/ZFZILow1qc

— Florida House Democrats (@FLHouseDems) July 19, 2025

"He was 73. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their love and support during this difficult time," the statement added.

Former firefighter first entered politics in 2013

USA Today recalled how Casello served as a firefighter for over three decades in Worcester, Massachusetts and later retired to Palm Beach County.

His political career got its start in 2013 when he successfully ran for a seat on the city commission in Boynton Beach, Florida.

Casello was later elected to represent Florida House District 90 in 2018 and continued to hold the seat until his recent death.

USA Today pointed out how Florida state law will compel Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to call a special election for Casello's successor.

Fellow lawmaker visited with Casello just prior to his death

Florida Republican state Rep. Mike Caruso was a close friend of Casello, and he spoke with The Palm Beach Post about his passing.

"He was very lucid," the lawmaker said of his last conversation with Casello, which took place on July 17. "I asked him if there was anything I could do for him. He said: 'See if you could get a fire truck named after me.'"

That same day saw Casello release a statement in which he said that his "life has always been about public service and meeting the needs of my community."

"Serving as both a firefighter for 33 years and an elected official for 13 years has been the greatest honor of my life. Representing the people − through times of unity and division, triumph and challenge − has been a privilege I will always cherish," he insisted.