State confirms first coronavirus-related death in Georgia

State officials confirmed the first death from the coronavirus in Georgia on Thursday.

The 67-year-old patient was a man who died at WellStar Kennestone hospital. He tested positive on March 7. The governor’s office says the patient also had underlying medical conditions.

“Marty, the girls, and I are praying for the family and loved ones of this individual during this incredibly difficult time,” Gov. Brian Kemp said in a statement.

“I know the medical professionals on site did everything that they could, and I greatly appreciate their efforts. As our state continues to address this pandemic, I urge Georgians to remain calm and support their neighbors and communities. We are in this fight together,” Kemp added.

#Breaking From the Gov’s Office “The individual, a sixty-seven year old male, was hospitalized at WellStar Kennestone since testing positive for COVID-19 on March 7. In addition to being infected with coronavirus disease, this individual also had underlying medical conditions.”
— Richard Elliot (@RElliotWSB) March 12, 2020

There are currently 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Georgia and 19 presumed cases, according to Georgia health officials.

Channel 2′s Richard Elliot reported Gov. Brian Kemp is expected to hold a news conference at 3 p.m. at the state capitol.

“As our state continues to address this pandemic, I urge Georgians to remain calm and support their neighbors and communities. We are in this fight together." #COVID19 #gapol
— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) March 12, 2020