Syracuse Sun

Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Assemblyman Robert Smullen's son, AJ. In a statement, Barclay said, "Words cannot express our sadness to learn that Assemblyman Robert Smullen’s son, AJ, has passed away. On behalf of the entire Assembly Minority Conference, I want to offer my most sincere condolences to Robert, Megan and their loved ones. For the past two weeks, AJ and the Smullen family have epitomized strength and perseverance during his fight toward recovery."

Barclay acknowledged the immense pain of losing a child, emphasizing that it is a burden no parent should have to bear. He urged the community to support the Smullen family during this difficult time, saying, "The heartbreaking loss of a child is something no parent should ever have to endure, and I encourage everyone to keep the Smullen family in their hearts and in their prayers."

The Assembly Minority Leader's words reflect the shared grief and support of the entire Assembly Minority Conference for Assemblyman Smullen and his family. The tragic loss has touched the hearts of many, prompting an outpouring of sympathy and solidarity for the bereaved family.