Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly offered a statement mourning the loss of television reporter and Navajo Nation employee Andy Harvey.

Harvey, 35, passed away last night at his home in Phoenix.

Harvey most recently worked for the Department of Diné Education as the senior public information officer, but became well known in his prior work as a television reporter for 12 News in Phoenix and KELOLAND Television in Sioux Falls and Rapid City, S.D.

“The Navajo Nation is saddened by the loss of such talent at a young age. He worked as a television reporter and told the stories of many people. Andy inspired many people, not only his own Navajo people, but many people throughout the country. The Navajo Nation’s offers support of prayers. We send condolences to his family in this time of mourning,” President Shelly said.

Harvey was born on Sept. 8, 1976 in Shiprock, N.M. He would eventually graduate from San Juan College in Farmington with an associate degree. He then earn a Bachelor’s of Science degree in broadcast journalism from Northern Arizona University and then earned a Master’s of Arts in rhetoric and composition.

Mark Casey, news director for 12 News, said Harvey was a compassionate reporter that brought a Native American view point to the newsroom.

“Andy meant a great deal to this team. He was a suburb reporter,” Casey said.  “He was a caring and sensitive reporter. The people trusted him and Andy never betrayed their trust.”

Casey added that 12 News plans to air a tribute to Harvey in the coming days.

Harvey also rose through the ranks in the Native American Journalist Association. He was elected to the NAJA board in 2009 and helped students with projects at the association’s annual conferences.

“Andy Harvey was a wonderful asset to the Native American Journalists Association, he gave back to this group serving on the board and as a student mentor. So many people spoke highly of his kind nature, it is one that will be missed by all of us,” NAJA President Rhonda LeValdo Gayton stated in a release.

After working in Phoenix for five years, Harvey came to the Navajo Nation in March this year.

“Andy did like we tell all our young people, get an education and then come home to help their people. We honor his efforts to come home to work for his people,” President Shelly said.

Funeral services are pending and the family is seeking donations to help with funeral expenses.

To donate please call Andrea Harvey at (505) 427-4725