Georgia Tech police officer loses battle with COVID-19

ATLANTA — Georgia Tech says a longtime university police officer has died from COVID-19.

The Georgia Tech Police Department posted on social media Thursday that Officer James Cornacchia had died June 1 following his battle against the virus.

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The department said Cornacchia was a 20-year veteran of the force and most recently worked as patrol officer.

“He was a loving father, husband, brother, son and friend,” the department said in a Tweet. “Officer Cornacchia was a valued member of the Georgia Tech community and will be sorely missed.”

Tech said Cornacchia had not been on campus for several weeks prior to being diagnosed.

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help his family with expenses.

According to the GoFundMe page, Cornacchia’s wife has been tested positive for COVID-19, and is now recovering herself.

“They have three young boys – Sal, Gio, and Vinny – who are devastated from the loss of their beloved dad,” the page said. “He said his favorite part of being an officer at Georgia Tech was interacting with the students.”

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