Joe Biden's Son Dies From Brain Cancer Aged 46
Joe Biden announced his son's death, saying he fought cancer with the same "strength he demonstrated every day of his life".
Sunday 31 May 2015 06:54, UK
US Vice President Joe Biden's son Beau has died from brain cancer, aged 46.
Beau Biden - who planned to run for governor of Delaware in 2016 - was diagnosed with cancer two years ago and had surgery and chemotherapy.
After getting a "clean bill of health" in November 2013, his cancer returned this year.
He was admitted to the Walter Reed Army Medical Center outside Washington, and his family were with him when he died on Saturday.
"It is with broken hearts that Hallie, Hunter, Ashley, Jill and I announce the passing of our husband, brother and son, Beau, after he battled brain cancer with the same integrity, courage and strength he demonstrated every day of his life," his father said in a statement.
"The entire Biden family is saddened beyond words. We know that Beau's spirit will live on in all of us, especially through his brave wife, Hallie, and two remarkable children."
President Barack Obama said he and the first lady were grieving alongside the Biden family.
"Michelle and I humbly pray for the good Lord to watch over Beau Biden, and to protect and comfort his family here on Earth," he said.
Tributes poured in from Washington's elite as news of Mr Biden's death spread on Sunday.
Former President Bill Clinton tweeted: "Hillary & I mourn the loss of Beau Biden - so full of life, love, honor, and service - and we pray for the strength of his wonderful family."
"My heart is broken for the family of Beau Biden - a wonderful man who served his country with devotion and lived his life with courage," Hillary Clinton posted in a separate tweet.
Several Republicans - many of whom have long served with Joe Biden in Congress - also extended their sympathies.
"Sincere condolences to @VP Biden, Jill, & their entire family on the loss of Beau. My thoughts & prayers are with you," House Speaker John Boehner tweeted.
Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush tweeted: "Saddened by the news of Beau Biden's passing. My prayers are with The Vice President, Dr. Biden and the whole family."
Beau Biden was a lawyer, member of the Delaware National Guard and former Delaware attorney general.
He was very close to his father and a familiar presence in his political campaigns.
After eight years as attorney general in Delaware, Mr Biden joined the investor law firm Grant & Eisenhofer this year.
He served a year-long tour in Iraq as a member of the Delaware Army National Guard in 2008.
The Vice President has faced family tragedy before.
Shortly after winning election to the US Senate in 1972, his wife Neilia and three children were in a car crash.
Neilia and their daughter were killed, while their two sons, Beau and Hunter, were injured.
He married Jill Jacobs five years after his first wife died.