Third Chicago Police Officer Dies From Coronavirus

CHICAGO — A third Chicago police officer has died from conditions related to the new coronavirus, officials said.

Officer Ronald Newman, a 19-year police veteran, worked in the South Chicago district. Newman, 59, received 137 awards during his career.

Interim police Supt. David Brown said Newman’s partner described the late officer as a private person who was a "dedicated and loyal" friend, and an officer who "never shied away from the difficult assignment."

Newman is survived by his wife, son and his stepdaughter.

"This is a really sad moment," Mayor Lori Lightfoot said. "Our first responders are essential. They have to run into danger. And they do that ever single day that they're on the job."

Two other police employees, Sgt. Cliff Martin, a 25-year police veteran and officer Marco DiFranco, also died after contracting COVID-19.

As of Thursday, 325 police employees have reported testing positive for COVID-19. Police said 72 officers who tested positive for coronavirus have recovered and returned to work.