The former Welsh government minister Carl Sargeant has been found dead just days after it emerged that a number of women had made allegations against him.
Sargeant, 49, was removed from his post as secretary for communities and children pending an investigation last Friday. Sargeant had asked for an independent inquiry to clear his name.
On Tuesday, a spokesperson confirmed the father of two had died. North Wales Police said they are not treating his death as suspicious, Sky News reports.
The statement issued on behalf of Sargeant's family said: 'Carl was a much loved husband, father and friend.
'He wasn't simply a part of our family. He was the glue that bound us together. He was the heart of our family. We loved him so very much.
'He was the most kind and caring husband, father, son and friend. We are devastated beyond words, and we know our grief will be shared by all those who knew and loved him.
'We are in shock and grief. We ask that our privacy is respected at this time.'
Sargeant's suspension came amid a growing sexual harassment scandal surrounding British politics.
After being dismissed from Labour, Sargeant, who was the assembly member for Alyn and Deeside, posted a statement on Twitter and promised to clear his name.
'I met with the First Minister today and he informed me allegations had been made about my personal conduct, which was shocking and distressing to me,' Sargeant wrote.
He added: 'I look forward to returning to Government once my name has been cleared.'
Sargeant's colleagues have been sharing tributes in response to the news of his death.
Leader Jeremy Corybn tweeted: 'I'm deeply shocked to hear of the terrible news about Carl Sargeant. My thoughts and profound sympathy are with his family and friends.'
The Welsh Assembly suspended business on Tuesday as a mark of respect.
Additional reporting from Associated Press.
