Norwalk Coronavirus Update: Six More Cases, Total At 2,014: Mayor

NORWALK, CT — The number of confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Norwalk rose by six as of Monday to 2,014, according to Mayor Harry Rilling, and the number of coronavirus-related deaths stood at 134.

Statewide, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases grew by 539 as of Monday to 42,740, and the number of deaths increased by 20 to 3,964, according to state health officials.

"The lives lost in Norwalk and across the country in only a matter of months due to COVID-19 is staggering and tragic," Rilling said. "I urge those in Norwalk to take a few minutes this evening to hold a moment of silence, reflect on the times in which we find ourselves, honor those we’ve lost, and hope for a brighter future."

In his Monday announcement, Rilling also addressed Sunday's peaceful protests in Norwalk over the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Floyd, who was 46 and black, died during an arrest last week, in which a white officer, Derek Chauvin, positioned his knee on Floyd's throat. Floyd could be heard on video saying that he couldn't breathe, and people at the scene could be heard begging the officer to get off of him.

Chauvin has been charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter, but three other officers at the scene who did not intervene have not been charged. All four officers have been fired from the Minneapolis department.

The killing has sparked protests around the country, some of which have turned violent, and resulted in widespread property damage and looting of businesses.

In Connecticut, the protests largely have been peaceful, garnering praise from Gov. Ned Lamont.

"Yesterday's protest in Norwalk was impactful with hundreds rallying together to send a clear message," Rilling said. "This however cannot be a one-day event, and these hard conversations must continue. I look forward to continuing that dialogue Wednesday night with faith and community leaders. I hope the public will join us for this meaningful Town Hall."

This is from Rilling's Monday announcement:

• Mayor Rilling will be joined with faith and community leaders on Wednesday, June 3, at 7 p.m. to discuss George Floyd, protests in Norwalk, and building community relationships. The Town Hall will be broadcast on Zoom and simulcast on YouTube. No registration is required.
• Attorney General William Tong and the Connecticut State Police today released a Public Service Announcement encouraging residents to fact check the information they receive about the COVID-19 pandemic. With people searching for facts and updates on COVID-19, scam artists insert themselves by sharing false information. More details available at ct.gov.
• The “Talk It Out” line for parents and caretakers coping with stress and increased needs from caring for children during the COVID-19 crisis is still available. Call 1-833-258-5011 or visit talkitoutct.com for more information.
• City officials remind local businesses that an outdoor dining permit is required when using either public or private property. Businesses found operating without a permit will be subject to penalties. Visit norwalkct.org/covid19businessresources for FAQs and the application.
• The City observed a National Day of Mourning & Lament in honor of the more than 130 Norwalk residents and 100,000 lives lost across the country COVID-19. The three minute moment of silence and reflection was held Monday night.

Members of the public are encouraged to sign-up for the City's CodeRED Emergency Alert Notification System at norwalkct.org/codered. Updates on City services, hours, and community resources will be routinely published at norwalkct.org/citynews. The latest health updates can be found at norwalkct.org/coronavirus.