Summit Sees Its First Death Of A Resident From Coronavirus

SUMMIT, NJ — The city of Summit announced on Tuesday evening that the Westfield Regional Health Department has confirmed the first fatality of a resident.

Summit Mayor Nora Radest said, “It is with heavy hearts that we relay this news to the community. Please keep this family in your prayers.”

The city released no other information.

On Monday, they said a total of 89 residents had tested positive for the virus.

Federal and state officials have said the next two weeks could see a peak in cases and deaths.

According to the Westfield Regional Health Department, residents affected by the COVID-19 virus range in age from 20 to 79 years. Two residents have reported a full recovery, and 10 residents remain hospitalized.

Don't miss Summit and statewide news alerts when they are announced. Sign up for free Patch breaking news alerts and daily newsletters.

Union County had 95 deaths as of Tuesday afternoon. Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

On Tuesday, the city of Summit announced that in response to economic challenges facing local small businesses in town, Mayor Radest, in partnership with The Summit Foundation and Summit Downtown Inc., has established the Sustain Summit Fund, an emergency assistance grant program.

The fund will provide grants to small businesses adversely impacted by COVID-19 containment measures through donations from individuals and area corporations. All contributions are tax deductible and can be made by accessing a GoFundMe link.

Here are some statewide resources:

The mayor listed these COVID-19 resources:

• NJ COVID-19 Information Hub: https://covid19.nj.gov/
• General COVID-19 questions: 2-1-1
• NJ COVID-19 hotline: (800) 222-1222

Got news in Summit? Email caren.lissner@patch.com