Principal of Duke Ellington School Unexpectedly Passed Away

The principal of Duke Ellington School of the Arts suddenly died Thursday night.

Father John Payne was rushed to the hospital from an apparent heart attack where he later died, Chancellor of D.C. Public Schools Kaya Henderson told ABC7 News.

During his time at Duke Ellington, Payne helped plan and execute renovations to the dining area and most of the classroom spaces. He also worked with the Georgetown community to update Ellington Field and Garden.

Payne was an Augustinian Friar and a member of the Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova.

D.C. potential mayoral candidates including Muriel Bowser and David Catania, have expressed their thoughts and prayers.

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