HONOLULU — The mayor of Hawaii island underwent a procedure to implant a stent after suffering chest pain Saturday evening.
Officials say Mayor Mitch Roth was under evaluation Sunday at Hilo Medical Center after being transported from North Hawaii Community Hospital in Waimea.
Roth, 56, the former Hawaii County prosecutor who was elected in November, released a statement saying he was looking forward to a "speedy recovery."
"I have had excellent treatment from the moment I began to feel discomfort, and would especially like to thank our Hawaii County first responders for their adept response and care," Roth said.
Roth said he was confident in the abilities of Hawaii County Managing Director Lee Lord, who will serve as the Big Island's acting mayor during Roth's recovery.
"I look forward to representing you honestly and with integrity in the absence of Mayor Roth," Lord said. "My wife Linda and I are praying for a speedy recovery for Mitch and look forward to his return."