Friends say former Rep. Sherman Parker, R-St. Charles, has been rushed to the hospital after suffering what is believed to be an aneurysm.

Parker is in a drug-induced coma at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, according to Sen. Scott Rupp, R-St. Charles. A hospital spokesman said Parker is in critical condition.

Parker, 37, represented St. Charles in the House from 2003 to 2006, when he ran unsuccessfully for Congress against Rep. Todd Akin.

Earlier, Parker worked for several prominent Republicans, including former Sen. Jim Talent.

UPDATE from Jo Mannies, 10:30 p.m.:

State GOP spokeswoman Tina Hervey said tonight that, at the request of the family, she is confirming that Parker has been declared brain-dead. Preparations are being made for organ donations, in line with his wishes, Hervey said.

Our sympathies are with Rep. Parker’s family.  As a reporter, I must say that Rep. Parker was always friendly, upfront and honest.  He will be missed.