Walla Walla confirms county’s first COVID-19 death

WALLA WALLA, Wash.-- A Walla Walla County man has died while being treated for COVID-19.

According to a press release from Walla Walla County Emergency Management and the Walla Walla County Department of Emergency Management on Tuesday, the man in his seventies passed away Monday.

Officials say the victim had underlying health conditions.

"We wish to express our deepest sympathy to this man's family and friends during this difficult time," said Meghan DeBolt, Director of Walla Walla County Department of Community Health.

People over the age of 65 and those with underlying health conditions are at the highest risk for COVID-19.

Also on Tuesday, the health agency confirmed a total of 94 cases of COVID-19 in Walla Walla County, with three patients remaining hospitalized.

Forty patients are also considered recovered, having gone at least one week without any symptoms of the deadly virus.