Memorial for San Carlos Mayor Scheduled for Friday

Friends and family of San Carlos' mayor, who died suddenly of a heart attack Tuesday morning, will attend a memorial in his honor Friday afternoon.

Omar Ahmad, who became mayor in November, was taken to Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City after calling 911 from his home, according to Vice Mayor Andy Klein.

Ahmad, 46, was pronounced dead when he arrived at the hospital.

Flags were lowered at San Carlos City Hall on Tuesday in honor of Ahmad. The San Mateo County Transit District also lowered flags at its facilities, according to SamTrans officials.

Half Moon Bay city leaders expressed their condolences in the wake of Ahmad's death.

"I am very sadded by the news on the death of Mayor Ahmad," Half Moon Bay Mayor Naomi Patridge said. "He was such a great guy and loved representing San Carlos. I got to know him on the Community Airport Roundtable and his love for aeronautics.  I will miss Omar and I want to send my condolences to his family."

"This is a devastating loss to all of us in San Mateo County," Half Moon Bay City Councilmember John Muller said. "Mayor Ahmad was an outstanding leader, caring and kindhearted, trying to do all he could for his community.  He will be greatly missed."

Open to the public, the memorial will be at the Hiller Aviation Museum in San Carlos, 601 Skyway Road at 3 p.m. tomorrow.

Kristine Wong contributed reporting.

- Bay City News