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A Texas firefighter died Aug. 18 from complications related to COVID-19, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.
Converse Fire Capt. Bryant Anderson, who served with the department for 16 years, began showing symptoms of the virus after coming into contact with and treating patients who had tested positive, the USFA said in an update. He quarantined at home for several days, but his condition worsened.
Anderson was taken to a local hospital and treated in the intensive care unit for several weeks. He eventually was placed on a ventilator before passing away last week.
In a press release from the city, Mayor Al Suarez called Anderson a "great man." He also asked for flags to be flown at half-staff in his honor
"Our department is hurting from this news and this loss is devastating," Fire Chief Luis Valdez said in a statement. "Losing Bryant has left a hole in our hearts that will be felt for years to come. We are better for having known and served with him and ask for prayers for his wife, Rosie, and their family during this difficult time."