The Cook County Medical Examiner Office says the death of Chicago Board of Education Chairman Michael Scott is suicide. His body was found this morning near Merchandise Mart by the Chicago River.

Merchandise Mart officials won’t comment on whether they turned over videotapes to the Chicago Police Department.

The family released a short statement: “The family of Michael W. Scott deeply appreciates the outpouring of support during this time of unimaginable grief. Our personal loss is also shared by many throughout Chicago, the home he loved so much. We will miss him greatly. Arrangements for a public memorial service will be announced shortly.”

In the meantime, statements from public officials are pouring in.

Governor Pat Quinn:

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Chicago Public Schools CEO Ron Huberman:  “We are heartbroken and saddened by the unspeakable tragedy. Our immediate thoughts are with Michael’s family and everyone who was touched by him. Michael Scott’s commitment to Chicago Public Schools, and especially to our school children, was longstanding. On behalf of his CPS family, he will be greatly missed.”

Herman Brewer, Acting President and CEO Chicago Urban League: “The Chicago Urban League mourns the passing of Michael Scott, our long time board member, and Chairman of the Chicago Board of Education. Scott was a fearless fighter for quality education and a strong supporter of the Chicago Urban League’s work to economically empower Chicago’s African American workforce and business community. He was a vibrant and active member of our board and his passion for the Chicago Urban League mission will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael Scott’s family, friends, and colleagues at this time.”

Congressman Bobby Rush: “Michael Scott was a personal friend of mine and I am stunned by the news of his tragic death. He was an outstanding public servant, a champion for the little guy and a remarkable example of excellence,” Rep. Rush said. “Michael was a problem solver and the people’s advocate—be it for school children or patrons of city parks or those seeking decent, affordable housing–and his death has left a gapping hole in the relevant leadership in the city of Chicago.  On behalf of the people of the 1^st Congressional District of Illinois, my wife and I extend our condolences and prayers to the Scott family and to all those who mourn the loss of this prolific personality in Chicago’s history.”

CTU President Marilyn Stewart: “I am saddened by the sudden death of President Scott.  This is a tragic loss for his family and children who earlier this year lost their mother to illness.  I want to extend my deepest condolences to the family and his fellow colleagues at the Board. I spoke with Michael on Saturday afternoon regarding matters on the agenda for this week’s Board of Education meeting.  He recently told me he didn’t think he was going to be around for long and saw his appointment as president being an interim one. I found Michael to be someone who worked with the union in a cooperative manner and who was willing to hear the other side of any issue.  I believe he was dedicated to doing what was best for the children in Chicago Public Schools and his death leaves a huge void to fill at a time when the Board desperately needs stability in its leadership.”

Cook County Board President Todd Stroger: “My wife and I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Michael Scott. Mr. Scott was a strong advocate for education. His contributions to the minority communities of Cook County will be sorely missed. In particular, his love for the upward mobility of residents from Chicago’s Westside where he spent his life.”