WMU student dies of COVID-19
KALAMAZOO, Mich. — A Western Michigan University student died Sunday of complications from the coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19.
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Edward Montgomery, the university's president, said Bassey Offiong was a senior at the school.
"Bassey was a young man of enormous potential who was scheduled to graduate with his degree in chemical engineering in just a few weeks," Montgomery said. "On behalf of the entire Bronco community I want to extend my deepest condolences to his entire family, including his sister Asari, who has been generous in communicating with us regularly."
Jim Rutherford, health officer for Kalamazoo County, said Offiong was not a Kalamazoo County resident.
"However," he said, "this virus has no borders when it comes to who it affects and how it is spread. We urge everyone to help us fight community spread by following the Governor’s executive order. Stay home and, if you must go out for essential items, stay safe by taking preventative measures."
Rep. Fred Upton reacted to the news on Facebook:
