The death of Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa., was the result of an inadvertent cut of his intestine during laparoscopic surgery in January at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., according to a close friend and fellow congressman.

Rep. Robert Brady, D-Pa., said he was told by Murtha's staff that the small nick during the Jan. 28 gallbladder surgery caused an infection. Brady talked with Murtha's wife two days later when complications developed and the congressman was hospitalized at Virginia Medical Center in Arlington, Va.

Murtha died Monday. He was 77.

Navy officials would not comment on the situation, citing privacy laws.

Although recovery issues are not uncommon following gallbladder surgery, serious complications occur in fewer than 1 in 1,000 cases, according to the American College of Surgeons.

"This is a loss to Pennsylvania and to the nation," Brady said in a phone interview. "He was a powerful man, but always had a kind word for everyone, and made sure everyone knew they were important."

Murtha, who was the first Vietnam combat veteran to serve in Congress, was known for his support of the troops and defense industry over his 36-year career. He brought billions to his district as chairman of the House Appropriations defense subcommittee.

"Both in uniform and in the halls of Congress, Chairman Murtha dedicated his life to serving his country both in the Marine Corps and Congress," Navy Secretary Ray Mabus said in a statement. "His unwavering support of our sailors and Marines, and in particular our wounded warriors, was well known and deeply appreciated. The men and women of the naval service and all who have served will sorely miss this strong proponent of selfless service to our nation."

"Our Navy is saddened by the passing of Chairman Murtha," added Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead. "He cared deeply for the men and women of our Navy and their families."