Fredericksburg Records First Death 4 Months Into Pandemic

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — The city of Fredericksburg recorded its first COVID-19-related death Tuesday since the start of the coronavirus pandemic: a city resident in his 70s.

“On behalf of the City of Fredericksburg, I extend sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the city resident who died,” Mayor Mary Katherine Greenlaw said Tuesday in a statement. “This is a truly grievous time for our community and reminds us of the importance of all measures that slow the spread of this virus.”

The man's death is the 47th in the Rappahannock Area Health District, which includes Fredericksburg and the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George and Caroline.

With a population of almost 30,000, Fredericksburg went a remarkably long time without reporting its first death from the coronavirus.

The city initiated emergency operations functions on March 13 and has been working with local, state and federal health and emergency management officials to respond to the pandemic. Currently, city buildings remain closed to the public, although city functions continue.

The Virginia Department of Health reported 996 new coronavirus cases Tuesday, about 50 cases higher than the total reported Monday. With the cumulative number of cases now at 79,371, Virginia is likely a day away from passing the 80,000 mark for positive coronavirus cases.

Health officials reported an additional 17 deaths Tuesday, lifting the cumulative total to 2,048.