INDIANAPOLIS — Former state representative Dan Forestal is dead.
The Marion County coroner says Forestal was found Wednesday at a Quality Inn hotel off of Michigan Road on Indy’s northwest side. The cause of his death has not been determined.
Forestal was elected in 2012 representing parts of Indianapolis, but resigned in 2020 after being arrested for impersonating a police officer, driving while intoxicated and resisting arrest. He also made it public that he battled mental health problems.
Forestal was just 38 years old.
Councilor Bain from the Indy City-County Council, on the death of Dan Forestal: “I was very sad to learn today of the passing of former Indiana Rep Dan Forestal. Like many in his family, Dan was committed to public service and cared deeply for his fellow Hoosiers. His battles with addiction did not diminish and do not erase his passion and the dedication to his community for which he will be remembered. My prayers and condolences go out to his friends and family. Every one of us faces personal challenges of one kind or another.”
House Minority Leader Phil GiaQuinta, remembering Forestal, said in a statement: “He was a great legislator and dedicated public servant who accomplished great things for his community during his time at the Statehouse. From his legislation addressing urban blight in Indiana neighborhoods to serving as the leading voice for House Democrats on transportation issues…he will be remembered for his dedication to making Indiana a better place to work and raise a family.”
