Long Beach City Councilmember Roberto Uranga suffered a stroke in September shortly before the death of his son, his office announced Wednesday.

“Councilmember Roberto Uranga is receiving medical care and is on the road to recovery,” said a statement from the 7th District office.

Uranga suffered the stroke on Sept. 21 after learning that his youngest son, Roberto Tomas “Tito” Uranga, 34, was about to die following a battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer, according to his office.

Tito Uranga died the following day.

Uranga’s office initially said that the councilmember “experienced a medical emergency” after the death of his son.

The statement quotes Uranga thanking his supporters and health care providers. “I recognize the need to focus on my health first and foremost and I will be taking some time off to make a full recovery,” he said in the statement. “I am eager to resume my duties representing the Seventh District and the City of Long Beach.”

In the statement, Mayor Robert Garcia wishes Uranga a “restful and speedy recovery.”

Seventh District constituent casework will continue as usual while staff works with the City Manager and City Attorney to ensure all matters are handled, said the statement from Uranga’s office.

It is unknown how long Uranga will be out of the office, and a spokesperson for Uranga did not immediately respond to an inquiry.

In the June Primary election, Uranga won reelection to a third term with more than 60% of the vote.

Uranga also serves on the California Coastal Commission, with his term scheduled to end in May 2025. It is unknown how long he will be away from that panel, and a spokesperson for the commission did not immediately return a call for comment.

Councilman suffers medical emergency following son’s death, will take time off to recover