Baltimore City Employee Dies Of Coronavirus

BALTIMORE, MD — A Baltimore City employee died of the new coronavirus, officials announced over the weekend. The police commissioner and mayor issued a joint statement commending the worker as one who served the city with distinction and dedication "through some of the city's most trying times."

Ret. Sgt. Michael Baptist served Baltimore for about 50 years.

“This is a terrible loss to the BPD, as we have lost a true hero,” Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison said in a statement. "His commitment to the citizens of Baltimore, which spanned over four decades, will never be forgotten. Mr. Baptist will be greatly missed by his work family here at BPD, and we send our deepest condolences and prayers to his family and loved ones during this difficult time."

Authorities said Baptist, a contract services specialist in human resources at the Baltimore Police Department, died Friday night. He joined the Baltimore Police Department as an officer in 1971 and retired as a sergeant, then rejoined the force as a civilian investigator.

"Mr. Baptist was a dedicated public servant, who decided to spend his well-earned retirement in further service to our City," Mayor Bernard C. "Jack" Young said in a statement. "Our hearts are extremely heavy as we all work to process the passing of Mr. Baptist. On behalf of the residents of Baltimore, I offer sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, and members of the Baltimore Police Department."