Penn State student dies of COVID-19 complications

STATE COLLEGE, pa. — A student at Penn State University has died from COVID-19 complications, university officials told WJAC.

Juan Garcia, 21, from Allentown, was living off campus in State College when he felt sick, according to WJAC. Garcia, a College of Earth and Mineral Sciences student, went home on June 19 and was tested on June 20.

He died on June 30 of respiratory failure due to COVID-19, his family told university officials.

Have questions about the spread of the coronavirus? We have an entire section dedicated to coverage of the outbreak. CLICK HERE for more.

“We are profoundly saddened to learn about Juan’s untimely death during this pandemic,” Vice President for Student Affairs Damon Sims told WJAC. “While I did not know Juan personally, we have learned through conversations with those closest to him that this young man had a remarkable spirit and was greatly loved. I know our entire campus community sends our deepest condolences to his family and friends as they grieve this unthinkable loss. It is a poignant reminder that no one among us is immune to the worst consequences of this virus.”

They said his death is the first known Penn State student death related to coronavirus.

University officials say they are in the process of reaching out to anyone who may have had close contact with Garcia, according to WJAC.

Mandatory mask order now in effect in Pennsylvania Mandatory mask order now in effect in Pennsylvania

© 2020 Cox Media Group