Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the first coronavirus death in the district on Friday.
The person who passed away was a 59-year-old man with underlying health issues.
“It is with great sadness that we announce a tragic death and, on behalf of our residents, I share our love and condolences with the patient’s family and friends,” Bowser tweeted.
(2/3) As a community, we must continue to support one another during these uncertain times. Everyone must do their part so that we can blunt the spread and protect our families, friends, and neighbors
— Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) March 20, 2020
In her tweet, Bowser wrote that the patient was admitted to a local hospital last week, presenting with symptoms of a fever and cough. She added that he had underlying medical conditions and tested positive for the virus.
“As a community, we must continue to support one another during these uncertain times. Everyone must do their part so that we can blunt the spread and protect our families, friends, and neighbors,” Bowser wrote.
At 3 p.m. eastern she will be holding a live press conference that can be viewed here.
The Hill reports that on Thursday, D.C. reported 32 new cases of the virus, bringing the District’s total to 71.
