Rep. Sylvester Taylor II
Business in the Missouri House came to an abrupt stop late this afternoon after a state representative complained of chest pains and was rushed to a local hospital.
Rep. Sylvester Taylor II, a freshman Democrat from St. Louis County, complained of pain in his chest as the House worked through the consent calendar, telling colleagues that he was going to the back of the chamber to get a drink of water. Matters became more serious. Some members report that Taylor appeared to be having a heart attack. Members of the House in the medical profession rushed to his aid and attended him until EMTs arrived at the Capitol.
House Minority Leader Mike Talboy (D-Kansas City) reports that Taylor, age 44, was conscious and alert prior to being taken to St. Mary’s Hospital in Jefferson City, just a few blocks from the Capitol.
A hush fell over the chamber and House members milled about nervously when it became apparent what had happened. House Speaker Steven Tilley (R-Perryville) ordered a pause in House floor debate. Eventually the House wrapped up its business for the day.
AUDIO: Brent Martin interviews House Minority Leader Mike Talboy (D-Kansas City) [2 min MP3]
AUDIO: Brent Martin interviews House Speaker Steven Tilley (R-Perryville)
