Berkeley Coronavirus Death: City Reports First Fatality

BERKELEY, CA — Berkeley's Health Officer announced that a Berkeley resident in their 40s has died of COVID-19, caused by coronavirus.

Although the person was only in their 40s, they had underlying health problems, according to the city.

“I am deeply saddened at the news of the first COVID-19 death in Berkeley, and my condolences go out to their family,” said Mayor Jesse Arreguín. “We all have the power to reduce the spread of this virus – and the deaths and heartache it creates. We all must follow the shelter in place order to protect ourselves, our neighbors, friends, family, and those most at risk. Together, we can get through these difficult times.”

The city is reminding everyone to wear a cloth face covering over their nose and mouth when in public and maintain 6-feet of space between you and other people who are not part of your household.

“This tragic death is a reminder that none of us can afford to dismiss the threat from this disease,” said Dr. Lisa B. Hernandez, Berkeley’s Health Officer. “It can affect anyone – with consequences as severe as death. We will never know how this person could have contributed to our community over the decades of life they should have had.

“This death is also a sad reminder of the urgency to shelter in place.”

Berkeley has now reported 34 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus.

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