Danny Curran, the former partner of Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis, died by suicide on his 35th birthday. Police discovered his body in his Fort Lauderdale apartment on Thursday morning in what investigators describe as an apparent suicide.
The tragic event occurred one day after Curran appeared in court facing charges stemming from a domestic violence incident involving the 72-year-old mayor last year.
Relationship Timeline and Engagement
Curran and Trantalis, who was first elected mayor in 2018, began their relationship in March 2025. The couple became briefly engaged from July to September 2025, with their significant age difference attracting public attention.
The engagement ended when Trantalis obtained a domestic violence injunction against Curran. Curran violated the order by appearing at the mayor’s home weeks later, expressing a desire to reconcile.
Alleged Assault Incident
On November 1, 2025, Curran allegedly attacked Trantalis outside his home. According to the arrest affidavit, Curran pushed the mayor to the ground and dragged him more than 15 feet across a roadway during a dispute over their relationship.
Trantalis sustained injuries to his wrist, leg, and knee. Court filings detail additional incidents during their relationship, including Curran throwing objects, brandishing knives, hurling furniture, and attempting to force Trantalis from his home.
Curran faced charges of battery on a person 65 or older, contempt of court, and violating an injunction.
Court Proceedings and Aftermath
Trantalis testified that he remained with Curran initially in hopes of rehabilitation and continued efforts to guide him toward counseling and mental health treatment even after their breakup.
Following his arrest and release two days later, Curran stated, “No matter what, I always have and will love him.”
During Wednesday’s hearing, Trantalis defended his former partner, asserting he posed no further threat. The judge modified the no-contact order to permit digital communication.
Mayor’s Statement on the Loss
Trantalis issued a statement expressing profound sorrow over Curran’s death. “He was a loving individual, and my sympathies go out to his family,” the mayor said. “Perhaps now, the pain he endured will subside. May he rest in peace.”
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Curran’s death.
