LAFD And LAPD Suffer Covid Losses

The Los Angeles Fire Department has lost its first member to the coronavirus.

Jose Perez died Saturday. The 44-year-old firefighter and paramedic had been with the department for more than 16 years. He is survived by his wife and three children.

The Los Angeles Police Department has also lost its first sworn officer to COVID-19. Valentin Martinez, who died Friday, was 45 and had served for 13 years. He is survived by his partner who is pregnant with twins.

Governor Gavin Newsom announced flags will be flown at half staff in honor of Martinez and an Alameda Sheriff's deputy who died from COVID-19 last week.

Since the pandemic began, more than 400 LAPD employees and 145 L.A. Fire Department employees have tested positive for the virus.