The small central Massachusetts town of Sterling is in shock after the sudden and unexpected death of its town administrator.
Selectman John Kilcoyne tells The Telegram & Gazette that Town Administrator Jeffrey Ritter died this week due to complications related to recent dental surgery.
He was 61 and had worked for the town since January.
Kilcoyne says the entire town is devastated. He says Ritter hit the ground running when he took over and was a devoted servant to the community.
Selectman Brian Patacchiola called Ritter "a shining beacon in our community" who had passion, vitality and vigor for his job.
Police Chief Gary Chamberland said Ritter had the town going in the right direction.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
